Professional services differ from other businesses in two distinct ways: first, they deliver highly customized services, so they cannot apply many of the management principles developed for product industries. Second, professional services are highly personal, involving the skills of individuals. Therefore, these companies must compete not only for clients but also for talented professionals. David Maister, drawing on more than a decade of research and consulting with these unique and creative firms, explores issues ranging from marketing and business development to multinational strategies, human resource policies to profit improvement, strategic planning to effective leadership. While these issues can be complex, Maister simplifies them by recognizing that 'every professional service firm in the world, regardless of size, specific profession, or country of operation, has the same mission: exceptional client service, satisfying careers for its people, and financial success for its owners.'

Pages: 400, Year of Publication: 0106