An outline of what you can expect from business consultancy
Business consultancy provides an objective evaluation of where you are now, and clarity on where you want to be in the future. After that, an actionable strategy bridges the gap between those two places.
It’s a fresh perspective and a catalyst for positive change.
Every business is different so the service is individually tailored, although there are generally three stages — discovery, evaluation and implementation.
I’ll take the time to learn as much as possible about your business.
It starts with an in-depth, confidential conversation with you about the objective and the obstacles standing in the way. If you’re not sure about the ideal goal, I can help you find clarity.
I’ll also talk to your colleagues and staff, and your board of directors if it’s a public company.
It’s a thorough process. I study your operational procedures and business finances, your sales and marketing approach, the company mission statement and anything else which is relevant to the way your business operates.
The evaluation phase identifies the business strengths, and provides an objective view of the areas for improvement.
I’ll look for the root causes of the issues you’ve already mentioned, and sound an early warning on any problems coming around the corner.
I also bring a fresh perspective to the solutions — strategies to boost efficiency and increase the business value. It’s a collaborative process. There’s an open line of communication at all times to make sure everyone is on board wherever change is needed.
After discovery and evaluation, we will agree on a clear, strategic action plan. It’s a roadmap for reaching the goals we identified at the start of the process.
If you’d like me to, I’ll roll up my sleeves and work with you on the ground to implement the plan. Or, if you prefer, you can put the strategy in place yourself.
I will provide as much support as you need, monitoring your progress, adjusting the plan wherever necessary and acting as the voice on your shoulder to keep you accountable.
As a business consultant, I work with small and midsize businesses throughout Sussex and Surrey. Please feel free to call me on 07815 134 432. Or, to book a free no-obligation introductory session, click the button below.
You’ll probably have a few questions so I’ve answered some of them below. If your question isn’t there, please feel free to call me on 07815 134 432. I’d be happy to answer it.
All kinds of business, both large and small. This includes not-for-profits such as charities.
Over the last 20 years, I’ve worked with start-ups and established businesses in a huge variety of sectors — from financial and legal services and to tech, manufacturing and creative industries.
Put simply, no matter the industry sector, I can help you.
Not at all. In fact, it’s an advantage because as an outsider, I can quickly see issues which may not be obvious to an industry expert.
When you’re close to a business, it’s difficult to view it objectively. It’s my job to offer a fresh perspective.
I don’t need to be an expert in your industry. In my experience, no matter the sector, the key issues nearly always revolve around people.
My services cover four key stages in business:
Transition coaching which helps you work through the feelings, concerns and choices you’re facing
Yes, I can deliver consultancy services online.
However, face-to-face consultancy generally works more effectively. When I’m there, seeing you in your working environment, it helps me get a proper feel for the business. It works both ways because we can build a proper relationship.
It’s up to you. Right from the start, we’ll discuss the timescale so that we’re both happy with how long the process will take.
I’m not the sort of business consultant who will stick around for the sake of it. Once the new strategy is bedded in, and everyone is happy with it, that’s my job done.
Always. Each business is different, as are the individuals within it. What works for one business will not necessarily work for another, so my services are bespoke.
Yes. If we’ve introduced new skills and processes, I’ll make sure everyone is fully trained and completely happy with implementing them. If there’s a change of role, I’ll help the individual make a smooth transition.
Training can include financial planning (for non-experts), communication skills, one-to-one performance coaching, leadership skills and several more that I don’t have space to mention.