The Consultant's Compass

Navigating Success with Courage, Curiosity, and Compassion

Published by Forbes Books
Distributed by Simon & Schuster

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About the Book

Have you ever wondered about the enigmatic world of consultancy and whether it might be the right fit for you? If the title 'consultant' has ever piqued your curiosity, then this book is your passport into that realm. Drawing from firsthand experience, the author takes us on a journey from initial skepticism to eventual admiration for consultants. With a memorable encounter as the pivot, she recalls an old colleague's dismissive description of consultants: "They ask you for your watch and then tell you the time." Yet, her personal experience was vastly different. She met a consultant who was insightful, engaged, and who connected the dots in a way that seemed effortlessly brilliant.

So, what is a consultant? This book delves into the various shades of consultancy, busting myths and reshaping perceptions. While traditional definitions, like Schein's 2016 explanation, depict consultants as mere distant experts, the book advocates a more modern and relevant perspective: Consultants as partners and helpers.

The world of consultancy is diverse, ranging from deep subject matter experts like HR technology aficionados, data aficionados with access to vast amounts of invaluable information, embedded consultants offering support during high-demand periods, to seasoned strategic advisors with tales of battles won alongside their clients.

In this enlightening book, you'll not only gain an understanding of what it truly means to be a consultant, but you'll also be equipped to decide if the thrilling world of consultancy is your calling. Dive in and explore the multifaceted realm that beckons those with a passion for problem-solving, innovation, and strategic partnership, and a true and deep connection with clients.

About the Author

MARY CIANNI has spent more than thirty years advising executives through mergers, acquisitions, and large-scale organizational change. A psychologist by training, she brings a grounded, steady perspective to the human dynamics that influence complex transactions. Her work has guided leaders across industries as they navigate growth, disruption, and integration. Cianni divides her time between New York City and Arcevia, Italy.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Forbes Books (April 12, 2024)
  • Length: 224 pages
  • ISBN13: 9798887503813

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Raves and Reviews

The Consultant’s Compass is more than a guide; it is a mentor in print for those navigating the challenging yet rewarding world of consulting. The book’s chapters masterfully navigate the dichotomies of logic and emotion, strategy and empathy, failure and growth... It is undoubtedly one of those books that will be revisited time and again, each reading offering a new nugget of wisdom.”

Anna A. Tavis, PhD
Clinical Professor, Department Chair, Human Capital Management, Division of the Programs in Business, NYU

“Professor Mary Cianni has been my close confidant and colleague over two decades. Her book, The Consultant’s Compass, fills a gap in focusing on the art of consulting, in addition to the science. Any aspiring or emerging consultant would be well-served to read and re-read this book, which includes her personal experiences and journey as a well-known consultant, CHRO, and NYU professor.”

Mark Arian
CEO, Consulting at Korn Ferry

“Whether you’re an aspiring consultant or are several years into your career, there’s no one better than Mary Cianni to hold your hand through everything from embracing opportunity, dealing with imposter syndrome, and managing challenging clients and projects… Mary provides the perfect tutorial for refining the hard and soft skills needed to reach the consultant’s ultimate goal of becoming a trusted strategic advisor and partner to their clients.”

Martine Ferland
President and CEO, Mercer

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