Top 20 Best Books on Consulting

Are you looking to dive into the world of consulting and expand your knowledge in this field? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books on consulting that are sure to provide you with valuable insights and strategies to excel in this competitive industry. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, these consulting books cover a wide range of topics, including client relationships, problem-solving, and business development. Get ready to gain a deeper understanding of consulting practices and take your career to the next level with these must-read books.

20 Best Consulting Books

The McKinsey Way

by Ethan M. Rasiel

The McKinsey Way by Ethan M. Rasiel is a renowned book on consulting that offers an inside look at the world of management consulting through the lens of one of the most prestigious firms, McKinsey & Company. Rasiel, a former McKinsey consultant, provides valuable insights into the firm’s methodologies, problem-solving techniques, and the overall approach to client engagements. The book is a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in understanding the consulting industry and the strategic thinking required to succeed in it.

Rasiel’s writing style is engaging and practical, making complex business concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Through real-world examples and case studies, he illustrates how McKinsey consultants tackle challenges, analyze data, and deliver impactful solutions to their clients. Whether you are a budding consultant, a business professional, or simply curious about the inner workings of management consulting, The McKinsey Way is an indispensable resource that offers a glimpse into the world of strategic problem-solving and client advisory.

The Boston Consulting Group on Strategy

by Carl W. Stern

The Boston Consulting Group on Strategy by Carl W. Stern is a renowned book on consulting that offers a comprehensive overview of the strategies and techniques utilized by one of the world’s leading management consulting firms. The book provides valuable insights into the fundamental principles of strategic management and the framework for analyzing and improving a company’s competitive position.

Through a series of case studies and real-world examples, the author delves into the key concepts of corporate strategy, including market analysis, growth strategies, and portfolio management. Readers gain a deeper understanding of how organizations can navigate the complexities of the business landscape and make informed decisions to achieve sustainable growth and success.

Whether you are a business professional seeking to enhance your strategic acumen or an aspiring consultant looking to deepen your understanding of the industry, this consulting book serves as an invaluable resource for unlocking the secrets to effective strategic planning and execution.

The Pyramid Principle

by Barbara Minto

The Pyramid Principle by Barbara Minto is a foundational consulting book that provides a comprehensive framework for effective communication and problem-solving. Minto, a former consultant at McKinsey & Company, introduces the concept of structuring information in a pyramid shape, with the main point at the top and supporting details cascading down in a logical and persuasive manner. The book emphasizes the importance of clear and concise communication, helping readers to organize their thoughts and present them in a compelling way.

With practical insights and real-world examples, The Pyramid Principle equips professionals with the essential skills for delivering impactful presentations, writing persuasive reports, and making sound business decisions. Whether you’re a seasoned consultant or aspiring to excel in the field of business strategy, this book about consulting offers valuable techniques for enhancing your analytical and communication abilities. Minto’s approach has been widely adopted in the consulting industry and beyond, making this book an indispensable resource for anyone looking to sharpen their problem-solving and communication skills.

Flawless Consulting

by Peter Block

Flawless Consulting by Peter Block is a renowned book on consulting that provides a comprehensive guide for both new and experienced consultants. With a focus on building effective client relationships and delivering value, Block offers insights and strategies for navigating the complex world of consulting. The book emphasizes the importance of clear communication, building trust, and understanding the client’s needs in order to provide valuable solutions. It provides practical tools and techniques for consultants to enhance their effectiveness and credibility, ultimately leading to successful outcomes for both the consultant and the client. Whether you’re a seasoned consultant or just starting out in the field, Flawless Consulting is an essential resource for anyone looking to improve their consulting skills and achieve excellence in their practice.

The Art of Client Service

by Robert Solomon

The Art of Client Service by Robert Solomon is an indispensable guide for anyone working in the field of client service. This insightful book delves into the world of consulting and provides practical advice and strategies for building successful client relationships. Solomon shares his expertise and experiences, offering valuable insights on how to effectively manage client expectations, communicate with clients, and ultimately deliver exceptional service.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in the industry, this book about consulting is packed with actionable tips and real-world examples that will help you navigate the complexities of client service. With its engaging writing style and comprehensive coverage of key topics, The Art of Client Service is a must-read for anyone looking to excel in the field of client service and elevate their consulting skills.

The Management Consultant

by Richard Newton

The Management Consultant by Richard Newton is a comprehensive and insightful book on consulting, offering a deep dive into the world of management consulting. Newton, a seasoned consultant himself, shares his expertise and knowledge to provide readers with practical advice, tools, and techniques for success in the consulting industry. The book delves into the essential skills and attributes required to thrive as a consultant, including problem-solving, communication, and building client relationships.

Readers will find valuable insights on how to navigate complex consulting projects, manage stakeholders, and deliver impactful results for clients. Newton also explores the challenges and opportunities that consultants face in a rapidly evolving business landscape, offering strategic guidance for adapting to change and driving innovation.

Whether you’re a seasoned consultant looking to enhance your skills or someone considering a career in consulting, this book about consulting is a must-read. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the consulting industry, and equips readers with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in this dynamic field.

The McKinsey Engagement

by Paul N. Friga

The McKinsey Engagement by Paul N. Friga is a comprehensive book on consulting that offers an insider’s look at the world of management consulting. Friga, a former consultant with McKinsey & Company, provides a detailed overview of the consulting process, from problem-solving and analysis to presentation and implementation. The book is packed with real-world examples, case studies, and practical advice, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to understand the dynamics of consulting and excel in the field.

Readers will gain insights into the key principles and methodologies that drive successful consulting engagements, as well as the essential skills and mindset required to thrive in this fast-paced and demanding industry. Whether you are a seasoned consultant or aspiring to break into the field, The McKinsey Engagement offers a wealth of knowledge and actionable strategies to elevate your consulting game and deliver impactful results for clients.

The Business of Consulting

by Elaine Biech

The Business of Consulting by Elaine Biech is a comprehensive book on consulting that provides valuable insights and practical advice for aspiring and established consultants alike. Biech, a seasoned consultant herself, covers everything from setting up a consulting business to client management and marketing strategies. The book offers a step-by-step guide on how to build a successful consulting practice, emphasizing the importance of professionalism, integrity, and continuous learning.

Readers will find useful tips on how to identify their consulting niche, create effective proposals, and deliver impactful presentations. Biech also delves into the nuances of client relationships, including managing expectations and handling challenging situations. With its wealth of resources, case studies, and action steps, this book about consulting serves as a valuable companion for anyone looking to thrive in the competitive world of consulting.

The Essential Management Toolbox

by Simon Burtonshaw-Gunn

The Essential Management Toolbox by Simon Burtonshaw-Gunn is a comprehensive guide for managers and executives looking to enhance their leadership skills and drive organizational success. This practical and insightful book provides a wide range of tools, techniques, and strategies to help navigate the complex world of business management.

Readers will find valuable advice on topics such as decision-making, problem-solving, project management, and team leadership. The author offers real-world examples and case studies to illustrate how these tools can be effectively applied in various business settings.

Whether you’re a seasoned manager or just starting out in your career, this book on consulting is a valuable resource that will equip you with the essential skills needed to excel in the fast-paced and competitive business environment. With its clear and accessible writing style, The Essential Management Toolbox is a must-read for anyone looking to sharpen their management skills and make a positive impact in their organization.

The McKinsey Mind

by Ethan M. Rasiel and Paul N. Friga

The McKinsey Mind by Ethan M. Rasiel and Paul N. Friga is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of management consulting. This book provides a comprehensive and insightful look into the strategies and techniques used by the renowned consulting firm, McKinsey & Company. Through real-life case studies and practical examples, the authors offer a deep understanding of the McKinsey approach to problem-solving, decision-making, and communication.

Readers will learn how to think like a McKinsey consultant, gaining valuable insights into the analytical and structured thinking that sets McKinsey apart in the industry. The book offers a step-by-step guide on how to approach and solve complex business problems, making it a valuable resource for aspiring consultants, business professionals, and anyone looking to enhance their problem-solving skills.

Whether you’re a seasoned consultant or simply interested in the world of business strategy, The McKinsey Mind is a truly enlightening and engaging read that provides a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of one of the most prestigious consulting firms in the world.

The Consultant’s Toolkit

by Melvin L. Silberman

The Consultant’s Toolkit by Melvin L. Silberman is a comprehensive and practical guide for anyone looking to excel in the world of consultancy. This book about consulting is filled with a wealth of tools, techniques, and strategies that consultants can use to enhance their skills and deliver exceptional results for their clients. Silberman draws on his extensive experience in the field to provide readers with valuable insights into the art and science of consulting, covering everything from building rapport with clients to conducting effective needs assessments and developing impactful solutions. The book on consulting also offers practical tips for managing client relationships, navigating challenging situations, and achieving success in a competitive industry. With its clear, accessible writing style and actionable advice, The Consultant’s Toolkit is an essential resource for both new and experienced consultants looking to take their practice to the next level.

The Consulting Bible

by Alan Weiss

The Consulting Bible by Alan Weiss is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to succeed in the world of consulting. This book about consulting is packed with practical advice, insightful tips, and proven strategies for building a successful consulting business. Weiss, a renowned expert in the field, shares his valuable insights on how to attract high-paying clients, deliver exceptional value, and create a thriving consultancy.

Readers will learn how to position themselves as trusted advisors, cultivate long-term relationships, and differentiate themselves from the competition. The Consulting Bible is a must-read for aspiring consultants, seasoned professionals, and anyone looking to take their consulting business to the next level. Whether you’re new to the world of consulting or a seasoned veteran, this consulting book is sure to provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to thrive in this competitive industry.

The McKinsey Edge

by Shu Hattori

The McKinsey Edge by Shu Hattori is a powerful and insightful book about consulting that offers a deep dive into the world of management consulting. Hattori, a former McKinsey consultant, provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the strategies, tools, and techniques that have made McKinsey & Company one of the most successful and influential consulting firms in the world.

Through real-life case studies and practical advice, the book reveals the secrets to McKinsey’s success and offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to excel in the consulting industry. Hattori’s writing is engaging and accessible, making complex concepts easy to grasp for both aspiring consultants and seasoned professionals.

Whether you’re a business student, a professional seeking to enhance your consulting skills, or simply curious about the inner workings of one of the most prestigious consulting firms, The McKinsey Edge is a must-read. This book about consulting is a treasure trove of knowledge that will give you the edge you need to succeed in the competitive world of management consulting.

The Consultant’s Quick Start Guide

by Elaine Biech

The Consultant’s Quick Start Guide by Elaine Biech is a comprehensive book on consulting that provides a practical and actionable roadmap for anyone looking to kickstart their career in the consulting industry. Biech, a seasoned consultant herself, shares invaluable insights, tips, and strategies for navigating the complex world of consulting, making it an essential resource for both aspiring and experienced consultants.

Readers can expect to learn about essential skills such as client communication, project management, and problem-solving, as well as how to effectively market oneself as a consultant. This consulting book is filled with real-world examples, case studies, and customizable tools and templates that can be directly applied to consulting projects.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your existing consulting practice, The Consultant’s Quick Start Guide is a must-read for anyone seeking to thrive in the dynamic and competitive world of consulting.

The Consultant’s Scorecard

by Jack J. Phillips and Patricia Pulliam Phillips

The Consultant’s Scorecard by Jack J. Phillips and Patricia Pulliam Phillips is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to assess the effectiveness of their consulting practices. This book on consulting provides a practical framework for measuring the impact of consulting initiatives and improving the overall performance of consulting projects. The authors introduce a scorecard approach that enables consultants to track and evaluate key performance indicators, such as client satisfaction, project outcomes, and return on investment. By utilizing this scorecard, consultants can demonstrate their value to clients and make data-driven decisions to enhance their consulting services.

With real-world examples and practical tools, this consulting book offers valuable insights for both new and experienced consultants. Whether you are an independent consultant or part of a consulting firm, The Consultant’s Scorecard equips you with the knowledge and tools to elevate your consulting practice and deliver measurable results for your clients.

The Trusted Advisor Fieldbook

by Charles H. Green and Andrea P. Howe

The Trusted Advisor Fieldbook by Charles H. Green and Andrea P. Howe is a practical and insightful guide for anyone looking to enhance their consulting skills. This book on consulting is a companion to the bestselling book, The Trusted Advisor, and provides hands-on exercises, tools, and strategies to help professionals build trustworthy relationships with their clients. The authors draw from their extensive experience in the consulting industry to offer practical advice on building trust, managing client relationships, and improving communication.

Readers will find valuable tips on understanding client needs, navigating difficult conversations, and developing a client-focused mindset. The Trusted Advisor Fieldbook is a comprehensive resource for consultants, advisors, and anyone in a client-facing role looking to deepen their understanding of client relationships and enhance their consulting capabilities. With its practical approach and real-world examples, this consulting book is a must-read for anyone seeking to excel in the world of professional consulting.

The Trusted Advisor

by David H. Maister, Charles H. Green, Robert M. Galford

The Trusted Advisor is a comprehensive and insightful book on consulting, co-authored by David H. Maister, Charles H. Green, and Robert M. Galford. This influential book provides practical guidance on how to build and maintain trust in client relationships, a core aspect of successful consulting. The authors emphasize the importance of credibility, reliability, intimacy, and self-orientation in developing trust with clients. They also offer valuable advice on understanding and meeting client needs, communicating effectively, and handling difficult situations with integrity and professionalism.

Through real-world examples and actionable strategies, The Trusted Advisor offers a roadmap for consultants to enhance their client relationships, build long-term trust, and ultimately achieve greater success in their practices. This book about consulting is a must-read for anyone in the consulting industry, as well as professionals in other fields who rely on trust-based relationships to succeed in their work.

Consulting for Dummies

by Bob Nelson, Peter Economy

Are you ready to step into the world of business consulting but don’t know where to start? Look no further than Consulting for Dummies by Bob Nelson and Peter Economy. This comprehensive guide is the perfect resource for anyone looking to enter the world of business advising. The book covers everything from the basics of consulting to advanced strategies, making it an essential read for both beginners and seasoned professionals.

Within its pages, you’ll find practical tips, real-life examples, and actionable advice that will help you navigate the complex world of business consulting. Whether you’re interested in management consulting, strategy consulting, or any other type of consulting, this book has got you covered. With its easy-to-understand language and engaging writing style, Consulting for Dummies is a must-read for anyone looking to succeed in the consulting industry.

So, if you’re ready to take your first step into the exciting world of business advising, pick up a copy of Consulting for Dummies and let Bob Nelson and Peter Economy be your guides.

The Boston Consulting Group on Strategy

by Carl W. Stern, Michael S. Deimler

The Boston Consulting Group on Strategy is a comprehensive and insightful book about consulting, authored by Carl W. Stern and Michael S. Deimler. This book provides a deep dive into the world of management consulting, offering valuable insights and practical strategies for businesses to achieve success in today’s competitive market. With a focus on the Boston Consulting Group’s renowned strategy framework, the authors explore the key principles and tools that have made the firm a global leader in the consulting industry.

Readers can expect to gain a thorough understanding of strategic management, market analysis, and organizational transformation, as well as learn how to apply these concepts to drive growth and innovation within their own organizations. The Boston Consulting Group on Strategy is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their consulting skills or gain a deeper understanding of strategic management. Whether you’re a seasoned consultant or a business leader seeking to elevate your company’s performance, this book offers valuable insights and practical guidance to help you succeed in today’s dynamic business environment.

The Halo Effect: … and the Eight Other Business Delusions That Deceive Managers

by Phil Rosenzweig

The Halo Effect: … and the Eight Other Business Delusions That Deceive Managers by Phil Rosenzweig is a thought-provoking and eye-opening book about consulting that challenges the conventional wisdom in the business world. Rosenzweig debunks the common misconceptions that often lead managers astray, such as the halo effect, the tendency to attribute success to specific factors without considering the broader context. He delves into other delusions such as the correlation-causation fallacy and the danger of overreliance on financial metrics.

Rosenzweig’s engaging writing style and insightful analysis make this consulting book a must-read for anyone in a managerial role or aspiring to be one. By shedding light on these pervasive delusions, the author equips readers with the tools to make more informed and rational business decisions. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a budding entrepreneur, The Halo Effect offers invaluable lessons that will challenge your beliefs and enhance your understanding of what it takes to succeed in the competitive world of business.

Final Thoughts on Best Consulting Books

Consulting is a dynamic and challenging field, and the right books can provide valuable insights and strategies for success. Whether you’re a seasoned consultant or just starting out, the 20 best books about consulting can offer a wealth of knowledge and practical advice to help you thrive in this competitive industry. From mastering the art of communication to developing effective problem-solving skills, these books cover a wide range of topics essential for consultants. By delving into these recommended reads, you can gain a deeper understanding of the consulting profession and enhance your capabilities to deliver outstanding results for your clients.

Which book about Consulting is best?

The best book on Consulting can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The McKinsey Way by Ethan M. Rasiel,
  2. The Boston Consulting Group on Strategy by Carl W. Stern,
  3. The Pyramid Principle by Barbara Minto.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Consulting?

For those looking to learn about Consulting, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The McKinsey Way by Ethan M. Rasiel,
  2. The Boston Consulting Group on Strategy by Carl W. Stern,
  3. The Pyramid Principle by Barbara Minto,
  4. Flawless Consulting by Peter Block,
  5. The Art of Client Service by Robert Solomon,
  6. The Management Consultant by Richard Newton,
  7. The McKinsey Engagement by Paul N. Friga,
  8. The Business of Consulting by Elaine Biech,
  9. The Essential Management Toolbox by Simon Burtonshaw-Gunn,
  10. The McKinsey Mind by Ethan M. Rasiel and Paul N. Friga

These books offer a range of perspectives on Consulting, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Consulting?

The best books about Consulting are:

  • The McKinsey Way by Ethan M. Rasiel,
  • The Boston Consulting Group on Strategy by Carl W. Stern,
  • The Consultant’s Toolkit by Melvin L. Silberman,
  • The Consulting Bible by Alan Weiss,
  • The Business of Consulting by Elaine Biech,
  • The Management Consultant by Richard Newton.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Consulting are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Consulting books of all time?

Choosing the best Consulting books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The McKinsey Way by Ethan M. Rasiel,
  • The Boston Consulting Group on Strategy by Carl W. Stern,
  • The Art of Client Service by Robert Solomon,
  • The Business of Consulting by Elaine Biech,
  • and The Consultant’s Toolkit by Melvin L. Silberman.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Consulting and continues to be influential today.