Knowing your client too well

Back in May 2008 the USA Daily Tips for Consultants #798 discussed 'going native', - ie. knowing when you been on site at a client's for too long. Here is the list of warning signs:

- You are asked by the client staff how to work the coffee machine

- You remember to bring your "contractor" ID badge but forget your wallet

- You are not displaced from your temporary office but new employees are sharing cubicles

- You know personal life details of the client's night cleaning staff and security guards

- You discuss what needs to be repaired with the copier repair person (whom you also know on a first name basis)

- You are on the faculty for the new employee orientation program

- You use so many acronyms you no longer know whether they are yours or the client's

- You are asked to serve on the the company picnic planning committee

- You are asked by the client to join the staff

- You begin to use the terms "us" and "we" when referring to the client organization

Takeaway: A hallmark of the professional management consultant is their independence and objectivity.