Experientially educating future consultants: benefits, challenges, and constructs

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss experiential education as a way to develop future consultants in human resource management and marketing with the goal of developing consulting competence. Design/methodology/approach – This is a conceptual paper that proposes, outlines, and discusses a model, containing 11 dimensions of consulting competence. Findings – The conceptual model includes 11 building blocks: foreign language competence, non-verbal competence, perception of cultural distance, cultural self-awareness, knowledge, skills, motivation, effectiveness, appropriateness, contextual interaction patterns, and affinity. Considerations for each of these elements are introduced and discussed. Practical implications – This model and the explanation of its components should guide management and marketing educators in their efforts to build and develop experiential education programs of excellence. Originality/value – The model proposed and outline in this paper will assist institutions of higher education and faculty members to guide students in their development of a successful career in consulting.