Recently, I was talking with a company about becoming their “outsourced” operations manager.  Many firms need to have an Operations Manager (OM) in place to provide the foundation and structure to grow.  Outsourcing this key role allows businesses of all sizes to profit.

The president of the company asked about my philosophy of operations consulting.  I explained that I use a specific consulting methodology that I created while training other consultants and managers.  It is a step-by-step path to consistent results.  I produced a visual tool, with the aid of Mike Leamon, my consulting partner with Connective Management, to help explain it.  It’s called OCEAN.

OCEAN:

Objective

Creative

Empathetic

Analytic

Navigate

Objective:

Objectivity is a crucial element to consulting.  This critical skill should be the first “tool” that a consultant utilizes.  Every project should start, and end with objectivity. This skill is really the most valuable asset a consultant can offer their client.

Creative:

The next stage in this methodology is for the consultant to be creative.  They must think outside the box.  Utilize brainstorming tools and imaginative activities.  Bring innovation to the table.  Clients need to have fresh ideas and energy assigned to their issues.

Empathetic:

It is essential for good consultants to be truly empathetic.  It should be their goal to identify with the situation at hand and work diligently to comprehend the stresses and complexities of each client’s unique position.  When a consultant already has a solution, before they walk into your office, they have forsaken empathy.  How do you know how to answer a question, if you don’t truly understand the question?

Analytic:

Sadly, this is where many consultants begin.  They skip being objective, slide past being creative and totally ignore any signs of empathy.  These consultants go straight for the science.  They jump to their tools and technology.  Being analytical is very important.  Having templates and assessments can assist all consultants.  Our main analytical tool is called S.O.A.R. But before we dive into the “fixing,” we need to understand the issue, (empathy) be open to every type of solution, (creativity) and have the ability to look at the situation from a fresh perspective, (Objective).

Navigate:

This final step in my consulting process is a favorite.  A navigator does not steer the ship or fly the plane.  Their job is to support the pilot, ensure the correct route and be available to plot a new course when issues arise.  Some consultants bring in a solution and drop it in the lap of the client.  Our goal is to co-create a strategic plan and help guide the organization to success.

Every consultant, coach, advisor, or expert has their own style and their own process.  It’s a great practice to ask incoming specialists to explain their methodology.  It will help you match the right consultant to your culture, your business philosophy and your company mission.  Our process at Connective Management is OCEAN.