User:Mwillner

Consultant's Dilemma
The two choices with which an experienced consultant is faced at the realization that the client's project or objective will fail: (1) go along, or (2) tell the client the truth.

Introduction
A dilemma involves at least two choices, both of which are difficult or complicated. The Consultant's Dilemma is a true dilemma by definition. This situation arises because the client's objective is often based on a whim. Human nature is always searching for an easy way to obtain what can only be gotten with great effort. Failure is the best teacher. However, in the realm of the consultant's dilemma, only the consultant seems to learn from the failure, which makes the next one even more frustrating. The dilemma arises, in other words, from the client's inability to understand the complexity of the objective in pursuit of what looks or sounds good in a presentation. A consultant sells wisdom. Wisdom is knowledge shaped by experience, thoughtful expertise. To share it is to be truthful to what one knows. Hence, the dilemma.

Alternate Meanings
1. How to approach the client and obtain additional work. [Reference] 2. When it is clear to everyone that the project or objective is failing, the consultant faces two choices: (1) remain loyal to the end, i.e., finish the work, paid or not, or (2) jump ship and find another job before it is too late. [Reference] 3. Nearing the end of a contract, the consultant is offered new employment and must decide: (1)to stay and finish the assignment with no prospects of subsequent employment, or (2) take the new job and leave. [Reference]