Accountants vs. Consultants Accountants and consultants both have above average intelligence and both are good at analyzing data. But that is where the similarities end. Consultants have the skill of probing. They know how to ask questions and draw out information from the client. The stereotyped accountant, asks for information, but does not relate it to another piece of information.
Consultants also have good listening skills because their goal is to solve a client's problem.
Accountants think that they already know the answer to the client's problem and really do not listen very well. Accountants were drawn to the profession because they like to work to numbers. Consultants would rather work with people. There are some discreet activities and skills that must be developed. You will need to identify your market in order to market new consulting services.