Ten top tips on how to get the most out of your consultants — and how they can get the best out of themselves.

1. Find out what their goals are. Without goals, there can be no coaching!

2. Do your homework. The more you know about the person, their vision, objectives, goals and their challenges, the better.

3. This should not be a one-sided exchange: be the ‘cheerleader’, but also engage and challenge if you judge a mistake.

4. Lead and give direction but don’t give the answers.

5. Probe deeper than the “why” and immediate response. Ask “what” – as in “what is the solution,” or “what course of action” should be followed.

6. Avoid phrases like “I don’t think” and “you shouldn’t”. Instead, use “what if you were to”, “maybe you could”, and “another option might be…”

7. Be prepared for the situation in which you don’t have the answer. This is not about you being a ‘guru’. If you don’t know, take a time-out.

8. Recognise and reward small advancements, and encourage positive thinking and enthusiasm.

9. Give feedback at the end of the session. Encourage the consultant to make a few points, and ask them to commit to two to three key action points.

10. Empower the consultant by asking them what they would do if they just heard you tell them what they told you.