For this assessment, you will develop a 3-5 page plan for starting a consulting project, including an evaluation of a sample contract, an analysis of the project outlined in the contract, and a list of best practices for building trust with the client.
Introduction
For this assessment, you will develop a 3–5 page plan for starting a consulting project, including an evaluation of a sample contract, an analysis of the project outlined in the contract, and a list of best practices for building trust with the client.
A consultant must critically analyze several factors before entering into a contractual consultant relationship.
It is important to understand the objectives and action steps for each stage of the consultation process. Peter Block (2011) observes, “When consultants talk about their disasters, their conclusion is usually that the project was faulty at the initial contracting stage” (p. 6). Exploring the fit between a prospective consultant and consultee is an important first step to consider. Accepting consultation initiatives or assignments for which one is unqualified or uninformed risks failed outcomes as well as ethical and legal complications. Ensuring the work is a good match for the consultant also generates goodwill.
Although the guidelines for contracts may vary, it is essential that all parties understand and agree on the terms of consultation. For example, internal consultants who are employees of the organization may have many of their consultation tasks and expectations addressed in job descriiptions or employment contracts; external consultants should have a contract, a letter of agreement, or at least an oral discussion of the contract terms. Clear understanding of the contract should always precede consultation.
Just as clear terms are important when starting a consulting position, it is important to build trust in consulting relationships. Because consultation is a human relationship that involves extensive communication, it is important to develop positive regard, empathy, and authenticity. These qualities and others are building blocks upon which an effective consultation relationship can be established.
To deepen your understanding, you are encouraged to consider the questions below and discuss them with a fellow learner, a work associate, an interested friend, or a member of your professional community.
What is the nature of consultation?
What key principles are necessary for building trust and strengthening the client-consultant relationship?
Which of your skills and competencies might you need to develop further to help you lead a successful consulting practice?
What critical consulting skills and competencies do you currently lack?
Reference
Block, P. (2011). Flawless consulting: A guide to getting your expertise used (3rd ed.). Wiley.
Preparation
These documents are necessary for completing this assessment:
ABC Bank Case Study [DOC].
ABC Bank Sample Contract [DOC].
Ensure you are familiar with the ABC Bank Case Study.
Knowing that there are a variety of ways to develop a good contract, evaluate the ABC Bank Sample Contract as it stands, noting the edits and enhancements you would recommend before presenting the contract to the client. Cite references to support your recommended changes.
Requirements
Using the ABC Bank’s sample contract, complete the following:
Analyze the sample consulting contract.
What stands out to you as needing further clarification about the project?
Identify topics to discuss before beginning the sample project.
What are topics that you still need to discuss with the client in completing the final draft of the contract? Generate a list of topics and questions.
Formulate a list of best practices for building trust when beginning the sample consulting contract.
What best practices would you recommend to help them establish and maintain a strong consulting relationship?
Note: For learning purposes, this contract has some intentional flaws and includes room for improvement.
Additional Requirements
Written communication: Written communication should be free of errors that detract from the overall message.
APA formatting: Your paper should be formatted according to current edition APA style and formatting.
Length: 3–5 typed, double-spaced pages.
Font and font size: Times New Roman, 12 points.
Competencies Measured
By successfully completing this assessment, you will demonstrate your proficiency in the following course competencies and assessment criteria:
Competency 2: Apply appropriate models and phases of psychological consultation to specific contexts.
Analyze the sample consulting contract.
Identify topics to discuss before beginning the sample consulting project.
Competency 3: Analyze the legal, ethical, cultural, and professional competencies necessary for effective psychological consultation.
Formulate a list of best practices for building trust when beginning the sample consulting contract.
Competency 4: Communicate in a manner that is scholarly, professional, and consistent with expectations for members of the psychological professions.
Communicate in a manner that is scholarly, professional, and consistent with expectations for members of the psychological professions.
Use grammar, punctuation, and mechanics expected of graduate-level composition and expression.
Use current APA format and style.
