What do you do if you want to excel in multiple consulting domains?

Networking with trusted advisors will be the best way to expand your knowledge and skills in multiple domains. Learning something new is challenging, and much of that can be alleviated by having guidance on the pitfalls to avoid and where to focus efforts. As you expand your knowledge, you don't want to lose your identity, which is why having an identified goal of where you can help the most will be key. Avoiding rabbit roles and time sucks will be important as you explore other domains.

Imagine you are a consultant specializing in environmental policy. Your goal is to expand into renewable energy consulting. Start by defining what you aim to achieve: perhaps you want to help companies transition to renewable energy sources, or advise governments on sustainable energy policies. By setting this goal, you can focus your learning on renewable energy technologies, regulatory frameworks, and market dynamics. Understanding these areas will help you bridge your current expertise in environmental policy with the new domain of renewable energy, making your consulting services more comprehensive and appealing to a broader range of clients.

First and foremost... Stay Humble. The ego is the resistance to learning. For me, hands-on doing is important. If it's software, test the free versions. Before making any recommendations, you want to be able to figure it out intuitively and/or be able to explain how it works to a 6-year-old. Stay Curious. Not interested can't be in your vocabulary if you want to stay open-minded to finding the best possible solutions and guidance.

Effective cross-training involves acknowledging transferable skills in your current set. Consultants are naturally adept at navigating a wide range of industries. Start with a careful review of your present skill set, focusing on transferable strengths such as communication, problem-solving, and project management. Look beyond the technical components of your current position to look at broader transferable skills such as information analysis, creative thinking, and client connection building. By visualizing how these transferable capabilities could be applied in different areas, you open up the possibility of seamless cross-training, broadening your knowledge base and increasing your value proposition as an agile consultant.

To me, cross-training skills are underestimated. For instance, learning to properly "listen" in your personal life will allow you to consult and advise professionally. And visa/versa. After becoming a true expert in one thing you now know the practice to becoming an expert in "anything".

Suppose you are a cybersecurity consultant and you want to expand into legal compliance consulting, particularly focusing on data protection regulations like GDPR. Cybersecurity and legal compliance overlap significantly, especially concerning data breaches and protection protocols. Cross-train by learning about legal frameworks and regulatory requirements, then apply your cybersecurity skills to ensure companies comply with these laws. For instance, you can use your knowledge of network security to help businesses develop policies that protect personal data, thus meeting both cybersecurity standards and legal requirements.

What do you do if you want to excel in multiple consulting domains? Build Experience Gaining hands-on experience is crucial. You can start small by taking on projects that have elements of the new domain you're learning. Volunteering for tasks or seeking mentorship can also be excellent ways to build experience. Over time, as you become more comfortable and experienced, you can take on larger and more complex projects spanning multiple domains, solidifying your expertise and reputation as a multifaceted consultant.

If you're a supply chain consultant interested in blockchain technology, start by integrating blockchain into small aspects of your supply chain projects. For example, you could implement a blockchain solution for tracking products in one section of a supply chain to ensure authenticity and reduce fraud. Seek opportunities to work with startups or innovative companies using blockchain in supply chain management. As you gain experience, scale up to more significant projects, such as overhauling an entire supply chain with blockchain technology. This hands-on experience will solidify your expertise in both supply chain optimization and blockchain consulting.

Networking is a powerful tool for consultants looking to branch out into new domains. Connect with professionals who have expertise in the areas of your interest. Attend industry events, join relevant groups, and engage in discussions. These connections can provide mentorship, partnership opportunities, and insights into industry trends and challenges. A diverse network will not only support your learning but can also lead to new business opportunities.

Change is growth. Growth is painful. It's called Growing Pains. Without Pain, there is no Gain. It starts in our personal lives, and to be able to make recommendations, I want to be able to do what I recommend others do. I have to be open to change to sell the concept of changing.

To excel in multiple consulting domains, start by identifying key areas of interest and acquiring foundational knowledge in each. Pursue relevant certifications and advanced courses to deepen your expertise. Gain hands-on experience through diverse projects and seek mentorship from seasoned consultants in those fields. Stay updated with industry trends and continuously expand your network. By maintaining a proactive approach to learning and skill development, you can build a versatile portfolio and achieve excellence across multiple consulting domains.