Five top-rated books on consulting

The role of a consultant is demanding and challenging role. It exposes you to a wide range of human beings and various work situations. This requires a certain level of emotional maturity and mental clarity. To succeed, you must have a good breadth of knowledge and significant skills in communication and critical thinking.  

In short, you need to be the best that you can be. However, the only way to become the best you can be is to read and learn constantly. Well, here are a few books that can help you achieve it all.   

1. Pyramid Principle: Logic in Writing and Thinking- Barbara Minto 

This book is the most quoted and widely used framework for structuring communications in consulting. It explains that, in any communication, you should start with your recommendation, arrange supporting ideas into groups, and then provide detailed evidence to support your story effectively. 

2. The Back of the Napkin: Solving Problems and Selling Ideas with Pictures – Dan Roam 

In his book, Dan Roam communicates his ideas through two simple concepts “keep it simple” and “one picture is worth a thousand words”. He explains that simple drawings can be a more powerful tool for solving and selling business ideas than software such as Powerpoint. 

3. The Trusted Advisor – David H. Maister, Charles H. Green, Robert M. Galford 

The authors claim that the key to success is trustworthiness, even though knowledge and skills are highly important. This book explores how to build long-lasting relationships with your clients amid the fast-paced economy. 

4. Flawless Consulting: A Guide to Getting Your Expertise Used – Peter Block 

This is a must-read book for consultants who look forward to mastering the art of communication. In this book, Peter Block explains how to communicate effectively through the 5 phases of the consulting process. Here, he explains how to understand clients, deal with resistance, and, ultimately, build a successful relationship with these clients. 

5. Key Management Models: The 60+ Models Every Manager Needs to Know – Financial Times Series 

This book is designed to improve and ease business performance. The authors offer all the information you need to know about the 61 featured management models. In only a few well-structured pages, they define a model and tell when and how to use it.