5 Traits to Look for in a Data Strategy Consultant

Key Takeaways

The best data strategy consultants share five traits: they listen before prescribing, focus on business outcomes over technology, deliver quick wins while building long-term capabilities, transfer knowledge to your team, and give honest assessments even when it means recommending less work.

• Great consultants start with business problems, not technology recommendations
• Look for partners who build your team's capabilities, not dependency
• Quick wins within 90 days demonstrate value and build organizational momentum
• Honest assessments save money — sometimes the answer is 'you're not ready yet'
• The right partner feels like an extension of your team, not a vendor