The last thing the world needs is more consultants, right? I couldn’t agree more. Yet, here I am, asking you to make space for one more. If I’m going to do that, I should explain why working with Cornwell Associates is different.
Our core values are trust, curiosity, and making a difference. Let me break down what that means for you. I started my own consulting firm because I wanted to decide which projects to take on. In line with these core values, I won’t undertake a project unless all the following conditions are met:
- I think that I am the right person for the job you need done (trust)
- I would enjoy solving the problem that you need solved (curiosity)
- I believe that I could make a meaningful impact on your business (making a difference)
The one promise I made to myself before embarking on this adventure is that I would never compromise on these principles. I admit that these rules are strict. However, I believe that this is the best way for me to deliver value for you.
Right from our initial conversation, you can count on 100% honesty and transparency from me. If at any point I realize that there is not a fit, I will explain why and do my best to connect you with the person or resources that you need. For example, if a business assessment reveals that your branding or advertising is ineffective, I will likely refer you out, as those are not my areas of expertise.
Speaking of business assessments, I use these to begin every engagement. This entails one or more discussions with key company personnel, perhaps followed by a review of major processes, financial statements, and sales data. These meetings are critical for giving context to the engagement. They’re also the first—and best—opportunity to make sure that any projects we propose actually help your business achieve its goals. Remember, I won’t do any work that I don’t think addresses one of a company’s most pressing problems.
I hope I’ve convinced you that I won’t take your money to do needless work. That still doesn’t explain why you should hire me to do the work that is needed. To make my case, I’ll remind you that my job is to help you make better decisions. I have been focused on this topic for pretty much my entire career. For example, I have:
- Written decision-making algorithms in combat systems
- Led the Applied Decision Sciences Section at a major university research lab
- Built detailed financial forecasts and conducted extensive market research to help companies decide whether to develop or acquire drugs
And now I am teaching data-driven decision making to master’s students at UNC Chapel Hill. In addition to deeply understanding just about any quantitative tool that might help your business, I’m also able to see the forest through the trees. I never lose sight of the “why,” and I’ll make sure that you don’t either. My greatest strength is that I am skilled at finding connections between seemingly unrelated ideas. Back when I was doing mathematical research, I frequently had to teach myself new topics and understand how they contributed to solving the problem that stood before me. I realize now how much I use this ability in helping business clients.
That’s the story of Cornwell Associates. If you’re interested in working together, please don’t hesitate to click the link below.
