What makes a great IT-consultant?

Although technical skills are a prerequisite, they are far from the only thing that creates value.

After many years of experience in the consulting industry, a good IT consultant is someone who balances many different skills – above all technical, but to a large extent human understanding. Here are some of the points:

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The ability to ask the important questions.

Not just those that the customer has prepared themselves – but those that the customer may not have even considered. The questions that open up new opportunities, uncover hidden risks and create a better solution than the idea that is on the table.

To dare to take responsibility.

To take responsibility for the project's objectives. To spot opportunities before they become problems, and to dare to say challenges out loud. See what is missing – and do something about it. Follow up on what is said in the meeting, and ensure that it is also done afterwards. Create clarity in tasks and expectations, so that both the team and the customer know what the next step is. Be the informal leader in the room.

Be curious about innovation and the world.

It is rare that pure lines of code solve everything. Every client has different internal definitions, perceptions of what “good” work is, and expectations for the human relationship. You can therefore be technically sharp – but without an eye for business and people, you are just a good programmer. A good consultant sees the whole picture. Instead, challenge yourself to explore different approaches and seek different solutions with critical thinking and a positive attitude.

Get into the client’s reality.

To see the world through their eyes. Understand what is important to them. Adapt your advice to their reality, their industry and their way of working. Be a partner, not an external resource. And deliver something that actually makes sense – in their context.

And it is about building strong relationships – without losing professionalism.

Trust is not only created through professional results. It is created when you are able to be a team player that the client can count on – even when things get tough.

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Ultimately, actions and words shape how you are perceived by others. That's why professionalism is prioritized – it helps build trust, create strong connections, and make a meaningful difference in every interaction.

To me, this is what separates the exceptionally skilled IT consultant from the average one.

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What qualities do you see as the most important in an IT consultant?

n3o - quality beyond code