Cultural Considerations in Building a Consulting Relationship Consulting is a process in which a consultant and a client must build a good rapport and relationship in order to succeed achieve the set goal. There are several phases of consultancy that need to be taken into consideration when consultants intend to build a relationship with their client, each phase is equally important in leading to the next phase. The phases of counseling include: establishing the working relationship, evaluating or defining the presenting problem, identifying and setting goals, choosing and initiating interventions, planning and introducing resolution, and follow-up (Hackney & Comier, 2013). I will discuss each of the phases of counseling and the cultural considerations that must be taken in building a counseling relationship. Phases of Consulting Establishing a relationship with clients invites the consultant to build a relationship with their clients. This involves factors such as respect, trust, psychological comfort and shared purpose. This relationship is the psychological climate that emerges from interpersonal contact between a counselor and his client (Hackney & Comier, 2013). For the counseling process to be successful, a positive relationship must be established. Building a relationship is an ongoing process that you need to continually work on. This process requires a high level of tact and adequate socialization skills. Additionally, particular attention should be paid to pre-existing factors and conditions, such as the client's comfort level in seeking professional assistance, their personal background and experiences, and the client's perception of their counselor, which may influence the construction of a positive relationship with a customer. With these previews......middle of paper......their client understanding the dynamics of the consultancy phases. To enforce these competencies, counselors must be aware of cultural differences that may affect the counseling relationship. Additionally, counselors must be open to gaining knowledge of cultural differences and applying their knowledge throughout the counseling process. Open-mindedness, attentiveness and sensitivity will strengthen a positive multicultural counseling relationship. References Hackney, H. & Cormier, S. (2013). The professional counselor: A guide to the process of helping (7th ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon. Lee, D. (1984). Consulting and culture: some problems. Journal of Personnel and Orientation, 62(10), 592.Pedersen, P. B. (1991). Multiculturalism as a generic approach to counseling. Consulting and Development Journal, 70(1), 6-12.