Beyond Solutions: Why Ethics Belong in Consulting

When you think of consulting, chances are you picture strategy decks, profit margins, and process improvements. That’s fair—it’s a field built around delivering results. But lately, I’ve been thinking more about something we don’t always talk about in consulting circles: ethics. Ethical consulting isn't just about doing things right. It’s about doing the right things. And honestly, that distinction matters more now than ever. Ethical consulting means helping clients succeed without compromising on fairness, sustainability, or integrity. It’s about being honest, even when the truth is inconvenient. It’s about pushing for what’s right—not just what’s profitable.

That might look like:

- Calling out exploitative business models, even when they’re legal

- Encouraging clients to back up their DEI statements with actual action

- Supporting sustainability goals that are real—not just PR

- Sometimes, saying “no” to work that doesn’t align with your values

Ethical consultants aren’t just advisors. In a way, they become the conscience in the room.

We’re in a moment where people care more than ever about the kind of businesses they support—and work for. Consumers want transparency. Employees want purpose. Investors are looking beyond the bottom line. In fact, I recently came across a Deloitte study that said over 70% of CEOs now expect their consultants to offer guidance on social and environmental impact—not just financial growth.

Let’s not pretend this is simple.

- Think about McKinsey’s role in the opioid crisis—they offered strategy that drove sales, but at what cost?

- Or how Patagonia has turned down business opportunities that didn’t match their values—and gained long-term loyalty instead.

- Firms like BCG and EY now have entire teams focused on ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance)—showing that the demand for ethical strategy is real.

Here’s a quick scenario for you: You’re consulting for a company under pressure to cut costs. One option? Lay off 20% of staff. Another? Automate certain operations, but doing so would disproportionately impact rural communities. What do you recommend? This is the kind of grey area where ethical consulting lives. There’s no perfect answer—just better questions.

Here’s something I use when I feel unsure:

1. Is this advice just effective—or is it also responsible?

2. Who gains from this decision? Who might lose?

3. Am I being honest, or just telling the client what they want to hear?

4. Would I be okay if this strategy became public tomorrow?

5. Do I actually believe in what I’m helping build?

It’s not a perfect system, but it keeps me grounded.

Let’s be real—sometimes it’s easier to play it safe. But ethical consulting is about showing up fully. That could mean:

- Pushing back on a harmful business model

- Turning down a project that feels like greenwashing

- Telling a client that their DEI strategy isn’t actually working

It’s not always comfortable, but it’s necessary.

When I started consulting, I thought success meant sharp slides and clean solutions. But over time, I’ve realized that the most powerful moments often come from uncomfortable questions. Sometimes the most valuable thing you bring to a client isn’t a framework—it’s your perspective, your honesty, and your willingness to stand for something.

If you’re in consulting—or any field where decisions shape people’s lives—take a moment to ask yourself: “What does success mean to me? And what am I not willing to compromise on?”

Because real strategy isn’t just smart—it’s human. And that’s where ethics comes in.