Books on consulting

I was recently asked for some of my favorite books on consulting. The intent of the person asking was, “I’m good at my technical still. But I’d like to get better at consulting. What do you recommend?”

I view great consulting as the intersection of consulting (providing advice - doing), understanding business (in general, and your client’s industry specifically), and selling (both your services, as well as you ideas). With that in mind, here was my recommendation - in order:

  1. Flawless Consulting by Peter Block
    https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0470620749

  2. Getting Naked by Patrick Lencioni
    https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Naked-Business-Shedding-Sabotage/dp/0787976393/

  3. Roadside MBA by Michael Mazzeo 
    https://www.amazon.com/Roadside-MBA-Entrepreneurs-Executives-Business/dp/1455598895

  4. The Art of Managing Professional Services by Maureen Broderick
    https://www.amazon.com/Art-Managing-Professional-Services-paperback/dp/0133353826/

  5. The Secrets of Consulting by Gerald Weinberg
    https://www.amazon.com/Secrets-Consulting-Giving-Getting-Successfully/dp/0932633013/

  6. How I raised myself for failure to success in selling by Frank Bettger 
    https://www.amazon.com/Raised-Myself-Failure-Success-Selling/dp/067179437X

I also think podcasts are great for developing a database of business scenarios and stories. I’m constantly absorbing these stories - and there are TONS of great podcasts on business. Here are a few of my favorites - clearly colored by my role in technology companies:

If you’ve got some solid resources for someone getting started in consulting - or tying to level up - I’d love to hear them. Hit me up on Twitter and let’s discuss!

Michael Kelly