This post was inspired by a recent post at Consulting Success, titled Our 10 Guiding Principles:Inside our Consulting Business and Life.   It resonated with me, and got me thinking about the principles that guided Bill Kimmel (my late business partner) and me at Kimmel Gerke Associates.

The first three (Do Some Good – Have Some Fun -Make Some Money) were our mantra, but upon reflection I was able to come up with seven more. The list is short and sweet. These were not random, but the result of many discussions (often over beer) on how we wanted to live our lives and run our business.

(1) Do some good –  The essence of consulting is improving the client’s status — either by solving problems or achieving aspirations. At the end of the day, you need to leave the world in a better place.

(2) Have some fun – If it isn’t fun, why do it? Life is too short to do stuff that isn’t enjoyable.

(3) Make some money – The ultimate goal of every business, even non-profits. And remember Marv’s sage advice, You can’t go broke when making a profit.

(4) Don’t be greedy – As is said about the stock market  — Bears make money — Bulls make money — Pigs get slaughtered.  Always leave some money on the table, and always tip well!

(5) Be humble – Nobody likes arrogance or narcissism. And remember TIAABB (There Is Always A Bigger Boat.) Can’t remember where I heard that advice, but I’ve always liked it.

(6) Take calculated risks – Don’t take foolish risks, but don’t be paralyzed by fear. Assess the risks and make a decision. Consider the worst case, best case, and then roll the dice. (Unless it might kill you, which it probably won’t.)

(7) Share what you know –  Pretty sure that is how the parable of the loaves and fishes worked — people shared what they had. Share and others will share with you.

(8) Be approachable – Very important for consultants, as you do not want to unwittingly intimidate those who might need your services. If an engineer, be ready to buy a beer.

(9) Keep learning – Your knowledge and experience are what you have to sell. Keep filling your experience bank account.

(10) Do it your way — That’s the reason to become a consultant, right? Can’t say it any better than Frank Sinatra did. 

Hope you enjoyed this. These principles served us well.

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