Author: Esther Hess, Talent Management Practice Lead, Namos Solutions
Let’s be honest, IT consulting doesn’t exactly have a thrilling reputation. When someone asks what I do, I briefly consider crafting an exciting response, then realise they’re expecting a two-word answer. So, I say, “IT consultant.” I then get one of two reactions, glazed-over eyes or the request to fix a random password issue.
But the thing is, I genuinely think my job is exciting! Give me the time to explain why and why I think my Namos consultants are great at consulting… and hold your password questions until the end of my ramble.
Like many of my colleagues, I found my way into HR software consulting through traditional HR roles. I’ve always enjoyed working with people and solving problems, and that’s what drew me to consulting – not just the software itself. Yes, the technology is important, but what really excites me is the bigger picture. SMEs don’t need a deep dive into system complexities. They need practical solutions that help them work more efficiently, with fewer headaches. The best consultants understand that success isn’t about how much you know about the software – it’s about aligning it with real business needs and making it work seamlessly for the people using it.
I’m lucky to work with consultants at Namos across HCM, ERP, EPM, and (even 😆) the Technical team, who truly get this. I might tease my tech colleagues, but their ability to translate complex systems into plain language amazes me. They can step into an unfamiliar process, quickly grasp the challenges, and articulate solutions – without drowning everyone in APIs, autonomous databases, or system architecture jargon.
I’ve been reflecting on what makes a great consultant – not just in terms of delivering results, but also enjoying the process. While my focus is on HCM, I believe these principles apply to any area of consulting at Namos.
Speak Human, Not Tech
Most HR professionals didn’t choose HR because they love software. They chose it because they love working with people. So, rather than focussing conversations on technology, focus on what really matters:
- How will this software make your job easier?
- How will it save time and reduce frustration?
- How will it cut down on the endless “HELP – How do I advertise a role?” or “HELP – Where do I find my benefits?” emails?
Start with the Business, Not the System
Start with asking, “What’s your biggest headache?”—then work backward to find the right solution. A willingness to challenge the underlying issue instead of bending the system to accommodate outdated processes is so important. More often than not, the real problem is a process issue, a people issue, or simply “We’ve always done it this way.” Those can be tough conversations, but they’re the ones worth having.
Have Some Fun
Very few people want to sit through a four-hour system configuration meeting—especially online. That’s why my favourite project phase is the face-to-face work. There’s opportunity to bring some energy and enjoy some jokes all which make any trickier conversations easier to navigate. I’ve seen colleagues and clients make excellent analogies and provide real-life examples in these sessions which are a brilliant way of engaging the group. An engaged group learns better, makes better decisions and ultimately go on to be key players in adoption of the system.
Keep It Real (and Keep It Simple)
Great consultants aren’t necessarily the ones who know the most about software —they understand people, business needs, and how to bridge the gap with technology. I’m fortunate to work with colleagues who excel at both (something I aspire to). A system that looks good on paper and meets project milestones but doesn’t actually improve how people work is not the goal. Similarly, a team of highly certified consultants who can’t translate their expertise into real-world solutions isn’t what we aim for at Namos.
So, here’s to consulting that puts people first, keeps things simple, and makes work just a little more fun. Because if we’re going to be IT consultants, we might as well enjoy it!
