It's All In the Details

If you're a consultant, or someone in a profession where meeting and exceeding client expectations is vital, then you're in for a treat today. I'm about to share some tried-and-true strategies that can elevate your client relationships, improve deliverables, and ultimately, boost your reputation. Let's dive in.

1. Define the Scope, Deliverables, and Timeline Clearly

One of the most common reasons for misunderstandings and disagreements between consultants and clients is ambiguity. Just as you wouldn’t head out on a trip without knowing your destination, don’t begin a project without a well-defined scope. What are the specific deliverables you're promising? And by when? 

2. Deliver Small Victories Early On

There's a saying: "First impressions last." And it's no different in the consultancy world.Delivering small wins early not only sets a positive tone but also builds trust and credibility.   By delivering small victories early in your engagement, you're telling your client: "I'm competent, efficient, and I'm here to make a positive difference." These early wins can be simple, but they build a momentum that can be sustained throughout your engagement.

3. Understand and Adapt to Client Personalities

Every client is unique. Some might be analytical and driven by data, while others might be more intuitive and prefer rapid iteration. Recognizing these tendencies and preferences can give you a huge advantage. By tailoring your approach to match your client's personality, you're signaling that you're not just there to deliver, but to deliver in a way that resonates with them.

4. Increase the Bar Gradually

While it might be tempting to wow your client with a massive leap in results or quality, there's wisdom in the gradual approach. Steadily increasing the bar allows you to sustainably improve and impress without overwhelming yourself or the client.This creates a narrative of continuous growth, rather than a one-time leap followed by stagnation.

5. Consistency is Key

Remember, it's not the grand gestures or one-time achievements that make you great in your client's eyes. It's the day-in, day-out reliability. By being consistently good, you'll not only meet but exceed expectations. Clients value someone they can depend on more than someone who shines brightly once but is unpredictable.

Your take away:  Exceeding expectations isn't just about having the expertise or knowledge; it's about managing expectations, building trust, and delivering results in a way that resonates with the client. Implementing these five tips will not only help you set the right expectations but also exceed them time and time again. Happy consulting!

PS: A well written Statement of Work is your best tool for having aligned expectations with your clients. Join Us to get access to our free SoW templates.

2. 10 Minutes With Carly McLandrich

Welcome to our inaugural episode of "10-minute conversations!" We had the pleasure of chatting with Carly McLandrich (https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlymclandrich/), the insightful indie consultant and master strategist. Here’s a snapshot of her wisdom:

One major hurdle many clients face? Seamlessly transitioning from strategy to action. Step one is understanding the current state. It's all about asking the right "Why". If there’s no clear answer, there’s potential to streamline or make enhancements.

Want to make an impact? Start with small, effective changes. This not only showcases the value you bring but also builds trust with your clients, setting the stage for bigger transformations. Simple tools, like calendars or to-do lists, can be a good start.

Carly's go-to tool for awe-inspiring results? Office Timeline Pro. This budget-friendly plugin transforms spreadsheets (think project plans or backlogs) into visually appealing Gantt charts.

Curious to watch our conversation and download our own Project Tracker & Gantt Chart Template? Come on over and Join Us!

3. Mileage Made Easy

Long commutes? Turn 'em into cash with the glorious magic of mileage write-offs! With $.65.5 per mile up for grabs this year, your wallet will be singing. But the IRS? They want a little diary of your drives. Enter: the mileage tracking app!
Here's how to master your mileage tracking:

• Decisions, Decisions: Miles or expenses? Think of miles as the dependable chocolate cake. Tip: You can’t flip-flop yearly. Commit to one for three years (but it’s pretty easy to keep track of both for reference)

• New Year, New Mile: January 1st? Set an annual appointment in your calendar to note down your odometer reading

• Set up your profile: Lock in your go-to vehicle, home, and office locations

• Know Your Regulars: MileIQ thrives on routine. Save the frequent stops: bank, day care, or your chai latte paradise.

• Weekly Date with Your App: Spend 15 minutes weekly logging details. With MileIQ auto-logging of frequent drives, you can quickly turn that 15 minutes a week into 15 minutes a month.

• Report Ready: By year-end (or quarterly if you're feeling spiffy), extract a CSV report. A sprinkle of Excel magic, and voilà! CPA-ready.

We’ve been using Mile IQ. Full disclosure, we haven’t tried them all, so your mileage might vary. Here’s what Penny Hoarder has to say about the Best Mileage Tracker Apps of 2023. What’s your go-to?

4. Yes, Starbucks is a Bank

How many bank accounts do you have. Tsk, tsk, wrong! It's more than you think. Check out this Instagram post from Zillenial Finance Expert Haley Sacks. Then, go back and take inventory of all the accounts you have and how much those peeps are earning off of you.

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