This year, the nominations for Consulting magazine's annual Top 25 Consultants had a much different feel than in previous years. In 2009, the overall tone of the 350-plus nominations we received was one of admiration.
In a crisis, the words "trusted advisor" mean just a little bit more than they do in other years. Yes, in 2009, the consultants nominated by their supervisors, peers and clients had a certain aspect of hero-worship attached to them. These consultants, as it was pointed out time and time again, stepped up to the plate and came through in the clutch when their clients needed them the most.
When the economy began to bottom out in the second half of 2008, the Top 25 Consultants stood tall, read the tea leaves, rolled up their sleeves and answered the call. Oftentimes, they were forced to change the rules of engagement in mid-stride, but they did so with great success. What more could any client want in a trusted advisor relationship?
