Ophelia de Vere

  There are a lot of things money can buy. A communications strategy, for example. A press release, a media analysis, perhaps even an outrageously expensive workshop. Lately, however, another item appears to have found its way onto the list of services offered by communications consultants: enthusiasm. It tends to be demanded at a particular moment. Usually when a conversation is not going quite as the client had hoped. Perhaps because the consultant considers an idea unlikely to succeed. Or because she has pointed out that a good story requires rather more than a person who considers himself one. Suddenly, there is a lack of enthusiasm. It is a remarkable complaint. After all, enthusiasm is a state of intense excitement and eager involvement. Apparently, the consultant is not merely expected to think, plan, write, and deliver results. She is also expected to be thrilled about it. Now, many things can be stipulated in a contract. Deliverables, fees, deadlines, intellectual property...