Asked Quote by Norman Ralph Augustine
“All too many consultants, when asked, 'What is 2 and 2?' respond, 'What do you have in mind?'”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Business Insights Podcast, 2015
Consultants often evade simple questions with vague, client‑centric answers, highlighting a tendency to overcomplicate.
In simple terms: Consultants dodge direct answers with vague language.
Key Takeaway
Ask for clarity, avoid vague responses.
Themes
communication
consulting
clarity
Mood
frustrated
critical
Type
advice
observational
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- client presentations
- decision making
- problem solving
Key Concepts
overcomplication
client focus
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you encourage direct answers?
- What impact does vague language have on decisions?
A Different Perspective
May reflect genuine uncertainty rather than evasion.
