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Ideas from a boutique consulting point-of-view:

"(1) be less shy (i.e., speak up more often, ask more questions and be more outgoing with clients as well as colleagues)" Sometimes I also see fantastic, more junior colleagues who are very intelligent (top results after assessment center and interviews) but who are very quiet when with clients or peers/management. They acknowledge the discussion (nod, look at the speaking person, and show emotions or laugh) but rarely speak up. We found out that the following aspects might help: - team events to make folks get acquainted and feel more comfortable among management and peers (off sites, team drinks, informal dinners, team lunches, ..) - a "lead" in team discussions or brain storming sessions (ie we have a senior manager guide more junior colleagues through a discussion) - an inclusive environment and "laid back" Friday afternoon where we discuss hobbies, interests and things people are passionate about. As an example, in our team meeting I encourage colleagues to discuss their weekend plans, holiday bookings or even personal events (if the colleague brings up this topic).

In a consultancy environment you should see your peers and team members as people who are there to help you and support you. Even if they speak up more often or simply have more experience, they are on your side! Don't be afraid to ask stupid questions or say "the wrong thing". We had the best client results with open and honest discussions, as crazy as they may seem initially. A consultancy is built on peer support and your consulting network. There are many reasons why they hired you (intelligence being one of them) and it is normal to not have a lot of input in every single area of business. (you should see me when people talk about accounting!).

(2) have a more entrepreneurial mindset. This one is tricky. What they probably mean is (not entirely sure): When clients have a problem they can't or won't solve on their own, they need someone external to come in. They typically need a team that: - thinks outside the box and have a "fresh eye view" - entails vast experience across other industry segments/businesses and clients (what have XYZ done to solve something similar?) - comes up with solutions nobody else thought of - have the interest and motivation to solve a puzzle in a client environment

Many of these elements are mirrored when embarking on an entrepreneurial journey. What you could do: - Read books or magazines/media that encourage these business elements and "alternative thinking" - I personally like biographies of entrepreneurs (what problems have they faced and how were these tackled?) - join groups or professional events where you can see/learn from business successes and failures (doesn't have to be IRL, there is TED, youtube, ..) - point 1) may also lead to an entrepreneurial mindset: the more people you speak to, the more diverse are your views. Invite more experienced colleagues to coffee, lunch. Ask them for their opinion on a client mandate (if there is no conflict of interest). Find an official or unofficial mentor within your organization. - Experience. After 2-3 years you'll have a lot more experience that you can draw from.