When Consulting Gives You, Lemons Make Lemonade!

It is courses such as this one that really allow you to roll up your sleeves and gain real world experience. During the initial weeks of the course, I had the chance to directly encounter the unpredictable and demanding nature of consulting. At the outset, our team faced challenges in understanding each other's work styles and outlook, resulting in clashes of ideas. Recognizing the need for open communication to discuss our work styles and align expectations, we resolved these issues, leading to healthier working relationships and improved effectiveness. As we settled into our roles and dealt with the complexities of team dynamics, we were confronted with a tough decision. Another team working with the same client had lost some members, leaving them with only two team members and a broad project scope. Consequently, we were asked if any of us would be willing to join their team. While we wanted to assist our fellow classmates, we also had a strong attachment to our project's scope and didn't want to shift. One of my teammates proposed a brilliant solution – merging the projects and presenting a revised scope to the client.

To our excitement, the client embraced our proposal and appreciated our effort. We are now a six-member team working on completing the initial project and subsequently tackling the second one. I must say, having six minds working on a problem is much more effective than four! Reflecting on this experience, I've drawn several key lessons: Firstly, during project work, things may not always go as planned, and you might encounter dilemmas like the one we faced. In such situations, maintaining a calm headspace and approaching problems creatively are crucial. I gained insight into how problem-solving and critical thinking can steer a team in the right direction. Secondly, effective communication is paramount. What worked well for us in this situation was our willingness to communicate openly with each other and seek assistance from our professor. While these conversations may not always be easy, they undoubtedly make things more manageable and efficient once they occur. Thirdly, it's all about finding balance.

Working with six team members is advantageous but coordinating schedules can be challenging. It's essential to recognize the importance of accommodation – being flexible and considerate of your team members' schedules and expectations. Additionally, stepping in to help when someone is overwhelmed can take the team a long way. Personally, I am excited to see how our project unfolds with such a diverse team. We have individuals from various backgrounds, regions, and disciplines, each with unique skills. I look forward to learning from my teammates' experiences and forming strong connections. Today, we concluded our second meeting with the client as a larger, motivated team, with smiles on our faces and a strong commitment to delivering a high-quality project.