Reflecting on a Career of Insight and Growth
Consulting is a field that constantly evolves. Each client, project, and challenge adds a new layer of experience. Over the last two decades, I, Amit Kakkar, have had the privilege of working with individuals, families, institutions, and businesses across various industries—ranging from immigration and education to real estate, events, and healthcare.
Throughout this journey, I’ve learned many lessons that go beyond technical knowledge. These insights have shaped not only how I work but also who I am as a professional. In this article, I want to share some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned during my 20+ years in consulting.
Lesson 1: Relationships Matter More Than Transactions
In consulting, it’s easy to get caught up in the numbers—clients served, projects completed, and revenue earned. But over time, I’ve realized that relationships are what truly sustain a consulting business.
Long-term clients often become friends, collaborators, and sources of referrals. When you treat people with genuine respect and care, they remember it—and they come back. As Amit Kakkar, I’ve always focused on building meaningful connections, not just finishing a job and moving on.
Lesson 2: Trust Is Earned Slowly and Lost Quickly
No matter how skilled you are, trust isn’t automatic. It’s something you earn by being consistent, transparent, and honest—especially when things get tough.
In my early years, I thought results were everything. But I learned that clients value honesty even more. If something won’t work, they want to know upfront. If there’s a delay, they want timely updates. This level of transparency builds lasting trust and sets the foundation for future collaboration.
Lesson 3: Every Industry Has Its Own Language
When I first expanded my consulting into real estate, healthcare, and event planning, I underestimated how different each industry was. I quickly learned that success depends on your ability to speak the language of your client—to understand their needs, pain points, and goals within their specific context.
This lesson taught me to listen more, ask better questions, and immerse myself in the client’s world before offering solutions.
Lesson 4: Learning Never Stops
Even after two decades, I never stop learning. Whether it’s changing visa policies, shifting real estate markets, or evolving healthcare systems, staying updated is non-negotiable.
I regularly attend workshops, read industry updates, and seek feedback from clients. As Amit Kakkar, I believe that being a good consultant means being a lifelong student. The more you learn, the more value you can offer.
Lesson 5: Communication Is the Key to Everything
Poor communication can break even the best ideas. Over the years, I’ve learned that clear, simple, and regular communication is vital to keeping clients engaged and confident.
I make it a habit to:
- Respond quickly to messages
- Break down complex information into simple terms
- Confirm expectations and timelines
- Update clients regularly—even if the update is “We’re still waiting”
This builds clarity, avoids misunderstandings, and strengthens the client-consultant bond.
Lesson 6: Personalization Makes a Big Difference
No two clients are the same. Early in my career, I used to apply a similar strategy for every client. But I soon realized that personalization leads to better outcomes.
Now, I make sure to understand each client’s background, priorities, and challenges before tailoring my approach. Whether I’m working with a student, investor, or NGO leader, I create a solution that fits their exact needs.
Lesson 7: You Don’t Need to Know Everything—Just Where to Find It
As a consultant, there will be moments when you don’t have all the answers. I’ve learned that it’s okay to say, “Let me get back to you.”
The important part is knowing where to find the right information—or who to ask. Over the years, I’ve built a network of experts across various domains. When I face a challenge outside my scope, I reach out to this trusted circle.
This ability to collaborate and connect clients with the right resources adds value and builds credibility.
Lesson 8: Structure and Systems Are Essential
When juggling multiple projects across industries, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. I learned early on that having a solid system for organization is key.
I use checklists, shared documents, and scheduling tools to stay on track. These systems allow me to deliver high-quality results consistently—no matter how busy things get.
As Amit Kakkar, I’ve realized that structure is the secret behind smooth execution.
Lesson 9: Your Reputation Travels Faster Than You Do
In the digital age, word-of-mouth has gone global. A good or bad experience can spread quickly—especially in consulting, where trust is everything.
That’s why I treat every project, big or small, with the same level of professionalism. Reputation is your most valuable asset, and once lost, it’s hard to recover. I make sure every client interaction reflects my core values: integrity, commitment, and care.
Lesson 10: Impact Is More Important Than Recognition
Awards and titles are great, and I’ve been fortunate to receive several “Best Consultant” honors during my career. But the real reward comes from seeing a student settle into their dream college, a patient get the care they need, or a family find the right home.
These moments of impact remind me why I started this journey in the first place. Helping people change their lives for the better—that’s what makes consulting truly meaningful.
Final Thoughts
Two decades in consulting have taught me more than any degree or course ever could. From building trust and mastering communication to embracing constant learning and adapting to new industries, the journey has been full of growth.
As Amit Kakkar, I carry these lessons into every client interaction, project, and challenge. They’re the foundation of how I work—and the reason I’ve been able to sustain a meaningful, successful consulting career.
If you’re starting your own path in consulting, I hope these insights help you avoid common mistakes, stay grounded, and build a practice that makes a real difference