| Abstract: | The importance of tailoring consulting interventions to fit the true needs of individual client organizations is illustrated by analogy in this vocational biography of a small business owner who first opened his shop as a harness maker for horses and mules and later diversified into the retailing of shoes for humans (within the leather industry) and tires for cars (within the transportation industry). One size does not fit all in any of these markets. The reciprocal relationship between products and service is also demonstrated. More broadly, the case is used to illustrate how consultants can apply in their own practices a variety of business principles to be observed on clients' premises. It is proposed that learning from one's clients in such a manner is a sometimes neglected but career-long continuing education opportunity for consulting psychologists that deserves their further attention. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
