As consultants, we’re often parachuted into diverse client environments. The age-old advice to “be yourself” suddenly becomes a complex puzzle.
How do we balance our authentic selves with the need to adapt to each unique client culture?
Insights from the trenches
- Client culture crash course: Quickly assess the client’s workplace norms. Is it suit-and-tie formal or jeans-and-t-shirt casual?
- Adapt your communication: Match your client’s style without losing your core message. Sometimes it’s about how you say it, not just what you say.
- Build trust gradually: Start professional, then slowly let your personality shine through as you establish credibility.
- Find common ground: Seek authentic connections with clients without oversharing or overstepping.
- Know your non-negotiables: Identify which aspects of your professional self are essential, regardless of the client.
- Flexible authenticity: Develop a range of authentic “selves” that you can deploy depending on the situation.
Remember, it’s not about being inauthentic, but about showcasing the most appropriate facets of your professional self for each unique client engagement.
How do you balance your personæ with client expectations? Let us know on Linkedin …