Consulting in a Book: The Ultimate Desk Reference for Consulting Engineers and Scientists - Paperback

by Dan Predpall (Author)

Consulting in a Book: The Ultimate Desktop Reference for Engineers and Scientists is a training resource that addresses the four key skills every consulting engineer or scientist requires to be successful: business development, client services, problem solving/decision-making, and success mindset.The book was written for both individual practitioners as well as consulting firms.For consulting firms, this book is an excellent in-house training vehicle that is inexpensive and effective. For example, a Supervisor provides copies to each of his direct reports. he assigns a chapter or sub-chapter to read. At a one-hour lunch period, he holds a discussion of the topic, which includes a number of tools and techniques. At the next lunch meeting a few weeks later, the Supervisor asks each staff member to select a technique or two that he/she will apply in their work over the next month. A month later, the staff report back on their progress. This type of training is very effective because of the repeatability and involvement of senior personnel.Managers will find a number of techniques that will be useful, including a unique win-win performance appraisal process, techniques for productive teams, and an unusual, but successful, method for making great new hires.Individuals can use the book as a reference when writing proposals, solving problems, or interacting with clients.The book contains a number of unusual topics not found in other training programs, including marketing psychology, improving communication style to enhance persuasion, and a unique method for writing proposals and giving presentations.

Author Biography

Dan Predpall has 40 years of experience in consulting for the power industry, where he has held a number of executive positions, including a Vice President at URS Corporation (now AECOM). In addition, Mr. Predpall has founded and co-founded several consultancies and solar energy development companies. He is President of Successful Consultant Training LLC, a firm he created to train engineers and scientists, and he is co-CEO of Southeast Solar & Power, a leading solar firm. His first book, Consultant in a Book: Unlock Your Potential & Basic Training Manual, was aimed at entry level, or people just starting out in consulting. This book is directed at more experienced people and senior management in consulting firms.