Shut-up & Listen.

Dr. Ernesto Sirolli is the father of Enterprise Facilitation® at his namesake non-profit The Sirolli Institute.  He is an expert in the field of sustainable economic development, and one of my personal heroes.  

In this November 2012 Ted Talk, Dr. Sirolli charmingly explains, what I feel, is the purest approach to consulting.  In short:

1. Shut-up and listen
2. Understand their needs and passions 
3. Help them find knowledge and resources in their community.

Those seeking help, should ask the same of their advisors.  

Dr. Sirolli goes on to stress that every entrepreneurial venture must possess:

1. A great product 
2. Superb marketing
3. Competent financial management

3 traits impossible for any person single to possess.  

In closing, identify your strengths, look to your community for resources to help compensate for your weaknesses, and seek counsel from those willing to shut-up, listen and help.  

-Great people unite.

Kurt

---