Situation: You are stuck on a desert island with no lifeline access. What are the essential books and tools you need for management consulting?
Well, I can't say that I have a complete list compiled, but here is a crash course consulting reading list (Word doc) that I have provided in the past to new consultants (including experienced professionals new to consultative methods) as bread-and-butter references and knowledge areas. May provide ~80% coverage of a core foundation for general management consulting. Perhaps it is of use to new consultants and/or those looking to develop their consulting practices. I know that this list could probably use expansion and updating - I tried to create a list that was based on pre-packaged, ready-to-go stuff, and there are some limitations with that method.
Please feel free to post in the comments section any other sources you think others may find useful.
Update (8/3/09): Updated the reading list a little. For example, I included some blogs from traditional management consultants that shed light on the practice and industry.
Update (8/21/09): Updated the list to include some strategy books and other books recommended by consultants.
Update (9/1/09): Updated the list to include the latest versions of two of the best professional services sales books ever (by Ford Harding). If you are a professional services or consulting organization and could use help and/or an introduction to Ford, feel free to let me know, and I can broker a connection.
