A manager observes, "It seems that every time a consultant walks through the office we end up making major changes. It's gotten to the point where I have a Pavlovian response to the sight of a consultant, sweating in anticipation of the pains of change that will ensue." Another manager replies, "Of course consultants bring change - they're in the change business." Do you agree? Why or why not?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is Answers should probably reflect at least some degree of healthy skepticism about the roles of consultants, or anyone else, as change agents. After all, no consultant is likely to make a reputation - or a living - by presenting reports saying, "Everything here looks fine to me. Don't change a thing." Again, change is not always good, and various parties may have their own reasons for initiating or fostering change. As such, the second manager's comments should at least be taken seriously. At the same time, however, it should be recognized that consultants or other change agents may play valuable roles in change efforts, providing new perspectives and expertise, reducing insularity, and offering insights regarding the relative merits of alternative change approaches.

A Manager Observes, "It Seems That Every Time a Consultant