The Evolution of Consultant Identity in the Translation of Management Ideas
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2024-10-29
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en
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This study shows that the identity of management consultants is dynamic and examines how the identity of management consultants evolves and the factors that influence this development throughout their careers in translating management ideas. While the core identity and values of consultants tend to remain consistent, there is a notable shift in their self-perception and working methods. Initially, consultants apply theoretical knowledge and methods dogmatically, without adapting them to the client's specific context. As they gain experience, they adopt a more pragmatic, flexible, and people-oriented approach. This change is due to a continuous learning process, practical experience, adaptation to new techniques and continuous skill improvement, where both internal and external factors play a role. Internally, private events, life experience, an intrinsic drive to improve and continuous training contribute to this development. Externally, consultants are influenced by client demand, imposed additional trainings, feedback from colleagues and feedback from clients. These findings show that variation in identity can occur not only between individuals, but also within an individual over time, which contributes to a deep understanding of the reasons behind these shifts.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen