All communication between a consultant and client must be treated with the utmost confidentiality.  The consultant is placed in a position of trust and often bears confidences that have not and will not be shared with others within the organization. Hence, the consultant must be above reproach in protecting his/her client. However, the consultant must be willing to be honest in giving feedback to the client, since often the outside view reveals issues not seen on the inside. This takes courage and integrity: sometimes this feedback is painful. It is incumbent for the consultant to be willing to practice "tough love" when necessary.