When it comes to taking on outside help of any form, many business owners are immediately sceptical. This is fair enough. There are so many different options out there that promise to transform your business, if only you pay them. How can you know who to trust? Who will actually deliver on their promises? What if it’s all just one big scam? Of course, these are legitimate concerns. There are a few bad apples out there that can give the consultancy industry a bad name. But, we’re not all like that. I believe that I have a unique approach to consultancy that delivers tangible results for the creative agencies that I work with. In this post, I’d like to share more about my approach and methods, and how I could be able to help you as a creative agency owner.
Why choose me as your consultant?
I have genuine experience
Many people are sceptical of taking on the help of a consultant because there are no solid qualifications needed to become one. So, in theory, almost anyone could market themselves as a ‘consultant’ without actually having the experience to do so. That’s exactly why I have chosen to narrow my focus to working with creative agencies. I have over 25 years of genuine experience in this sector. As a result, I know how agencies and the wider industry work inside-out. This includes knowing how to run a successful creative business. I believe that this puts me in a good position to help agencies who may be struggling with specific issues. You can make the most of my experience and impartial birds-eye view of your agency, to help you make the best decisions with my guidance.
I don’t promise to deliver results for absolutely everyone
Lots of business owners are wary of consultants that promise to deliver for everyone, no matter their circumstances. And rightly so! I do not work like this, as I know that it can be detrimental to everyone involved. My initial Discovery meeting comes free of charge. I see it as an opportunity for me to get to know you, your business, and the challenges you’re facing. This will allow me to assess if I can really help you. If I don’t think that my services will be particularly beneficial for you, I will tell you. I won’t lead you on with false promises. In fact, I’ll probably even be able to recommend a consultant who is better suited to your needs! This means that I only work with those businesses for whom I believe I can offer genuine results. And, once we work together, I’ll always have a hands-on approach to ensure that you get the most out of my services.
My fees are flexible
I don’t offer fixed-price ‘packages’ or contracts. Every single agency is different. As a result, they will have different needs from me as a consultant. So, all of my proposals are tailored to meet your individual requirements. My fees are flexible depending on what you need from me. We can also work out a fee and payment structure that suits you. Whether it’s a set project fee, day rate, or monthly retainer, I’m happy with whatever works best for you. And, if at any point you’re not happy with how things are going, you’re not locked into a fixed contract. You can walk away without paying any penalties. This is something I am happy to offer as I don’t believe that you will ever need to utilise it!
My unique approach
I pride myself on taking an approach that is proven, measurable, and effective. I believe that it sets me apart from other consultants, and gives my clients the peace of mind that what I do with them is backed up by my systems. My approach is in four main parts:
1. Discovery
This stage is aimed at understanding your needs and what I can do to support you. Each business has its own unique set of challenges and barriers to growth. In our Discovery meeting, I will work with you to identify these. Afterwards, you’ll receive a summary with a proposal of how I can gain the knowledge I need to understand your agency’s day-to-day runnings. From there, I can produce a detailed report explaining how you can improve the efficiency and profitability of your operation. This initial meeting is always free, even if you later decide you don’t require my services.
2. Evaluation
The next stage involved a whole-agency audit that aims to investigate the concerns raised in the discovery phase, as well as uncover further issues if needed. I know that one problem within an agency is usually connected to others, and they’re not always obvious. The key to resolving all of them is tackling them together.
As part of this phase, I’ll evaluate your entire internal operations, including each department and team structure, assessing current procedures, systems, and workflow. From here, I’ll produce a highly detailed report highlighting all of the areas that must be addressed, and an action plan that explains how to implement these changes.
3. Systems
It’s vital to have the right internal structure and systems in place if you want to successfully implement change in your creative agency! So, I’ll work with you to establish the best team structure to unlock your potential for growth. I have a minimalist approach to systems and processes, believing in lean processes to enhance efficiency and free creativity. Once we have found the level of processes that works best for you, I’ll also assess the tech that can help your team deliver their best work.
4. Results
At the end of the day, I am here to see results for you and your creative agency. And, I know that that’s what you’re looking for, too. Throughout the process, I will oversee plans as they’re implemented by remaining in regular contact with your team and reporting back to you with progress. As we go along, results are tested, measured, and adjusted if needed. But this is only the beginning! To really build on your success, we will then make a plan to achieve the next phase of your growth.
Final thoughts
I know that, as a business owner, the prospect of taking on a consultant can be daunting. It’s vital that you make the right choice if you want to meet your goals and guarantee the success of your agency. Not every consultant is created equal, so I want to be fully transparent about my approach and methods so that you can decide if it fits in well with you and your agency. I’m a firm believer of the benefits a consultant can have for a creative agency, especially if they are having issues with profitability and growth. However, only you can decide if it’s the right step to take, and if you think you would benefit from it. But, if you’re not sure whether it’s right for you, why not book a Discovery session with me to see how I may be able to help you? Click here to get in touch with me today.
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