The Modern Observer Group

The fastest growing job title in the post-great recession world is consultant. According to Webster’s Dictionary, the definition of a consultant is one who gives expert or professional advice, but the term is being misused by most. Here is a quick overview of the consultants that are coming to knock on your door:

• Sales: A true consultant is not a salesperson. They are there to benefit you. While they may suggest products, they don’t work for the company that provides them. The biggest group of people that misuse the word consultant are network marketers. They sell their products under the guise of being health consultants or lifestyle consultants, but their advice is usually limited to what product to buy.
• Unemployed: Unfortunately after the great recession, there are many people who are still unemployed. Previous employment in a field does not make them a consultant. First and foremost a consultant needs to be an expert. If someone offers you consulting services, ask about their background. Ask about their expertise. Look them up online and see what comes up. Some of these people may eventually become real consultants, but they need to prove it.