Meaning: This quote by Norman Augustine, a renowned American aerospace businessman and author, humorously captures the common frustration of encountering evasive or non-committal responses from consultants. When someone asks a straightforward question like "What is 2 and 2?" they expect a clear and direct answer. However, some consultants have a reputation for providing ambiguous or indirect responses, often deflecting the question back to the asker. This quote highlights the need for consultants to be forthright and transparent in their communication, particularly when dealing with simple and direct queries.

Norman Augustine's quote reflects the broader issue of communication and clarity in consulting, as well as in various professional contexts. Consultants are often hired to provide expertise, guidance, and solutions to complex problems. Clients rely on their knowledge and experience to offer clear and actionable advice. However, when consultants respond to straightforward questions with further questions or ambiguity, it can lead to frustration and a lack of trust in their expertise.

The quote also sheds light on the importance of effective communication in consulting. Clear and direct communication is essential for building trust and credibility with clients. When consultants respond to questions with evasiveness or ambiguity, it can create a perception of untrustworthiness and undermine their professional reputation. Clients expect honest and straightforward communication from consultants, and evasive responses can erode the client-consultant relationship.

Moreover, the quote serves as a reminder for consultants to prioritize clarity and simplicity in their communication. While the problems consultants are hired to solve may be complex, the communication of solutions and advice should be clear and understandable. Consultants should strive to communicate in a way that is accessible to their clients, avoiding jargon and convoluted explanations. By providing clear and straightforward responses, consultants can demonstrate their professionalism and expertise while fostering a positive and productive client-consultant relationship.

In summary, Norman Augustine's quote humorously captures the frustration of encountering evasive or non-committal responses from consultants. It highlights the importance of clear and direct communication in consulting and professional contexts, as well as the need for consultants to prioritize transparency and simplicity in their interactions with clients. By providing clear, direct, and honest responses to client queries, consultants can build trust, credibility, and strong client relationships.