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CONSULTANTS WHO LOVE CONSULTING – SOPHIE LEMIEUX, MBA, ADM.A, CMC
Q1 In brief, describe how you entered the profession of management consulting, or when did you decide that management consulting was a profession that you wanted to enter?
I started my career as a microbiologist. After 3 years of working in a lab, I finally understood that I was more interested in the business side of things than the science part of things. I continued my career in the pharmaceutical industry while doing my MBA. As I was growing inside the company, I came to realize that I really needed to be in a position where I could help my peers. I was coaching some of them, I was animating brainstorming meetings, I was developing processes, etc. And it suddenly became evident that my playground wasn’t big enough anymore. I decided to create my own firm in Management Consulting and here I am, 6 years later! I really enjoy consulting as it regroups everything I am good at and I feel I can help others. I've never regretted my choice. Sky is the limit and I love it.
Q2 What do you love most about consulting?
I am a team person. My specialty revolves around making teams perform. When I first started my consulting firm, my friends and family were telling me that I would feel lonely as a freelance worker. After more than six years of consulting, I can tell you that it is exactly the opposite. I am part of so many teams in Québec. The relationship I am building everyday with my clients and the alliances I have developed with other consultants is incredible. I learn so much every day. I am a life-long learner and consulting allows that. I also know that my clients can benefit from my experience and I feel privileged to be able to share this knowledge with them. Making a difference is an incredible feeling.
Q3 What do you like the least?
I like developing long-term relationships with my clients and being there to see the results of my involvement. I am always sad when my mandate stops after the diagnosis phase. I really like to accompany them all the way. On the other hand, I am happy that they have all the means to make it happen on their own. It is sort of a sweet and sour feeling.
Q4 What has been your most satisfying engagement and why?
It is so hard to choose. Every mandate is satisfying. I am really proud when I establish a long term relationships with clients. When they call me back or refer me to someone else, I am always grateful and happy that they liked my work. I am working with several universities in Québec as a consultant and a trainer and I love it. I think that having a variety of mandates and clients is what I enjoy the most.
Q5 What personality trait has helped you the most in your career?
I think that my capacity to adapt to people, context, culture, and organizations is my strongest asset. I am quickly able to understand the other person’s point of view, the way he / she sees things, and adapt my personality and my advice to that. I am teaching a lot too and you need to adapt quickly to the group because you often have only a couple of hours to create an impact.
Q6 Finally, if you were stranded on a desert island - What is one book and one luxury item you would take with you?
I only hope that I will not be alone! As mentioned, I am a team and communicative person, so I would bring my phone to be able to communicate with everyone I love. (Yes, on my deserted island, wifi will be available!).
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Visit Sophie's LinkedIn Page to learn more.
