Back in May 2008 the USA Daily Tips for Consultants #798 discussed ‘going native’, – ie. knowing when you been on site at a client’s for too long. Here is the list of warning signs:
– You are asked by the client staff how to work the coffee machine
– You remember to bring your “contractor” ID badge but forget your wallet
– You are not displaced from your temporary office but new employees are sharing cubicles
– You know personal life details of the client’s night cleaning staff and security guards
– You discuss what needs to be repaired with the copier repair person (whom you also know on a first name basis)
– You are on the faculty for the new employee orientation program
– You use so many acronyms you no longer know whether they are yours or the client’s
– You are asked to serve on the the company picnic planning committee
– You are asked by the client to join the staff
– You begin to use the terms “us” and “we” when referring to the client organization
Takeaway: A hallmark of the professional management consultant is their independence and objectivity.
