E-Type: Advisor/Counselor

— -- Wouldn't you like to be paid for giving your opinion? Or your advice?

That's what Advisor/Counselor E-Types get to do, and it's why it may seem like they have the ideal kinds of businesses. All they have to do is meet with someone, listen to their problems, give them advice, then send them a bill. Right?

Of course, it's not that easy. People who are included in this E-Type must offer a lot more than just a willingness to listen and a strong opinion.

Typically, Advisor/Counselors have a great deal of expertise, education, and experience. So when these E-Types give

advice, they're not just spouting an opinion; they're sharing knowledge based on a solid foundation.

One skill that this E-Type excels in is listening. And being a good listener is not as easy as it sounds. Even "counselors" (such as therapists) whose job may appear to be just listening all day, will tell you that active listening and conversation-guiding takes lots of education and experience.

Advisor/Counselor E-Types are quick learners. They can come into a situation and rapidly absorb the key issues. Of course, some of this is a result of their experience. But part of it is because they're curious and

observant by nature. They understand things quickly.

Another personality trait of Advisor/Counselor E-Types is that they don't have to be in final control of a situation. Generally, they influence or educate their clients; the clients themselves have the ultimate responsibility

and authority. So Advisor/Counselors don't have to be—typically don't get to be—the decision-maker.

Advisor/Counselors can live with ambiguity and unfinished business. They are able, if necessary, to leave before a project or challenge is completed. While other E-Types might be completely frustrated because they can't stop a client or colleague from doing something dumb, Advisor/Counselors recognize that their role is not to decide, but to guide.

Obvious (and Not-So-Obvious) Business Choices for This E-TypeManagement consultantClinical social worker/therapistHome inspection serviceEducation selection advisor (college, boarding school, troubled teens, etc.)Employee assistance resource advisorAttorneyFinancial plannerPublic relations consultant Substance abuse counselor Personal or business "coach"MediatorDiet counselorAccountant