Turning the Corner

We hope you’ve had time to recharge…

1. Sprouting Into 2024: The Driver Tree

The Driver Tree is a simple framework to deconstruct a problem into increasingly smaller pieces until you reach root causes you can assess.

Imagine this: your client's goals are the trunk, sturdy and central. Then, branch out to the key drivers – these are the big moves that make the dream work. And don't forget the leaves, the nitty-gritty details that add that extra rustle.

This isn't just analysis - it's strategic storytelling. With the Driver Tree in your toolkit, you're ready to turn complex challenges into actionable plans, making business strategy as engaging as it is effective. Here's to a year of mapping success with clarity, creativity, and a bit of TheConsult.co’s flair! Download the template now.

2. 10 Minutes with Dokun Olagoke

Meet our very own celebrity in business and in life, Dokun Olagoke. This former UNC Chapel Hill running back and BCG alum has been an athlete his entire life and credits sport for much of his success as an indie consultant.

Here are the top take-away’s from my conversation with Dokun:

1. Get your workouts in first thing in the morning. Whatever is to come in the rest of your day won’t be as difficult as what you’ve already accomplished. 

2. Try Jujitsu. This Japanese martial arts system will teach you to stay calm in difficult situations and to employ your analytical skills to improve, regardless of your natural ability (or size). 

3. Network everywhere you go. Even when you’re at the gym, remember that you’re in the relationship business. Or, as I like to say, work the people as much as you work the problem.

Take 10 and listen to the full conversation with Dokun here. 

3. Yes, You Need QuickBooks

As a new indie and proud owner of your own business, keeping track of your finances just became SUPER important. 

Let’s just skip over the question and go straight to the answer: you need QuickBooks. But don’t worry - this is one of the first tasks you’ll delegate later.

In the meantime, this bookkeeping app is the gold standard used by all accountants. And while there are alternatives, trust me - none of them are good enough. 

We HIGHLY recommend you connect with your accountant to make sure you’re aligned on a few important details: 

• Which flavor of QuickBooks is right for you? If you have an LLC, it’s the online version. If you don’t have an LLC, it’s the self-employed version.

• What should you include in your Chart of Accounts? Obviously, you would include bank accounts and credit cards. However, if you have an accountant, they probably have preferences about how you set up your various income and expense accounts to align with how tax reporting will be done for your business. Setting this up correctly will save you $bank$ in tax prep fees moving forward. 

And for ongoing success, make sure to establish consistent practices and an ongoing routine. Set regular time in your calendar for tasks like reconciling bank accounts and reviewing financial reports each month. 

Stay tuned in the coming weeks as we share more of our hard-earned SaaS Stack advice with you.

4. Tell Me You Didn't Miss the World Excel Championships

You’re sad you missed it, but fear not, fellow Excel nerds! You can watch the entire THREE-HOUR competition right here.

Competitors brought their passion, their energy and their excitement to spreadsheeting as two-time champion Andrew “The Annihilator” Ngai captured his third consecutive victory.

Remember, the path to success is paved with continuous learning and embracing fresh perspectives. So let's stay connected, share ideas, and elevate your consulting business.

Stay curious, our friends.

TheConsult.co brought to you by Keenan Reid Strategies

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