Are you an independent consultant who’s ready to grow your business into a predictable revenue stream while working on your own terms? The Grow Your Independent Consulting Business is a podcast that shares the blueprint to make your consulting business goals a reality. Each week, Business Coach, Melisa Liberman, brings you solo insights or informative guest interviews that will help you to accomplish your Independent Consultant Business goals. She shares specific tools, actionable strategies ...
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Bringing together stakeholders from all levels of the freelance ecosystem to surface and solve the problems we all face as independent workers and those who support them. The best solutions come from the ground-up, from people with skin in the game, but often we operate in silos and echo chambers instead of leveraging the power of the collective. The Future is Freelance Podcast honors the expertise that comes from all levels of the freelance ecosystem, from freelancer to platform CEO, from c ...
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Episode 35: Independent Consultants with Melisa Liberman
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Melisa Liberman is a business coach for independent consultants and author of "Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality." In this episode, she shares her journey from corporate executive to accidental entrepreneur, offering deep insights into the mindset shifts required when transitionin…
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193. Being In Control of Your Consulting Business Results
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Taking control of your consulting business results can be the difference between stagnation and growth. In this episode, Melisa Liberman breaks down why consultants often feel powerless against external factors and provides a practical framework to regain control of your business outcomes, regardless of economic conditions or market timing. You'll …
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192. Generating a Steady Flow of Inbound Leads for Your Consulting Business
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Inbound lead generation can be the difference between a thriving consulting business and a stagnant one. In this episode, Melisa Liberman breaks down the essential strategies to attract leads who actively seek out your expertise, so you can spend more time on meaningful work and less on chasing down potential clients. You’ll learn the prerequisites…
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191. The Benefits of Being Your Own Consulting Client
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In this episode of Grow Your Independent Consulting Business, Melisa Liberman dives into a transformative mindset shift—treating your business as your own best client. She shares some practical steps and strategies that independent consultants can adopt to ensure they prioritize their business growth and maintain consistency in their operations. Ke…
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190. How to Create Excess Demand for Your Consulting Business
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In this episode of Grow Your Independent Consulting Business, Melisa Liberman digs into creating and managing excess demand for your independent consulting business. She covers why generating more demand than you can handle is a powerful strategy that allows you to build a business that’s both scalable and sustainable. Melisa walks through her “Exc…
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Episode 34: Working with Friends with Rachel Renock
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Rachel Renock has been an incredible innovator in the freelance space, and this conversation barely scratches the surface of her expertise in helping independents build more profitable and collaborative businesses. In this episode, we dive deep into the future of freelance work, exploring what Rachel calls "virtual studios" - a model where freelanc…
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189. Bridging a Contact into a Consulting Lead: Your BLCS Tool
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Are you struggling with turning contacts into consulting leads? This is a common issue for many independent consultants who struggle to move a conversation from a general connection into a valuable business opportunity. In this episode, Melisa Liberman shares her BLCS tool to help you take control of your pipeline and unlock more consulting opportu…
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188. Thinking of Yourself as a Managing Partner: A Gamechanger for Your Consulting Business Results
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Are you ready to take your consulting business to the next level? In this episode, Melisa Liberman shares a powerful mindset shift that can help you make more money, land better engagements, and set yourself up for long-term success: thinking of yourself as the managing partner of your independent consulting business. Melisa explains into what it m…
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Episode 33: The Democratization of Work with Steve King
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It was a pleasure having Steve King, a founding partner of Emergent Research, on the podcast. With over 25 years of experience, his work focuses on the future of work, particularly how it impacts small businesses, independent workers, and the gig economy. Our conversation covers a range of topics, including the post-pandemic rise in full-time freel…
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187. The 5 Techniques to Avoid Taking on Non-Ideal Clients in Your Consulting Business
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Are you struggling with taking on non-ideal clients as an independent consultant? In this episode of the "Grow Your Independent Consulting Business" podcast, Melisa Liberman breaks down actionable steps to help you avoid signing non-ideal clients, even when it’s tempting to accept work for cash flow. You will hear about four essential tools to filt…
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186. How a Consulting Buyer Thinks About Engaging Independent Consultants with Ran Harpaz the CEO and Founder of Lettuce.co
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Can you successfully balance fractional work while building a sustainable business of one? In this episode, Melisa Liberman sits down with Ran Harpaz, CEO of Lettuce, to explore the unique dynamics of running a solo consulting business while taking on fractional roles. With a background in tech and startups, Ran shares invaluable insights from his …
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Episode 32: The Future is Freelance with Matthew Mottola
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Matthew has been an invaluable thought leader in the freelance ecosystem, and this conversation barely scratches the surface of his deep expertise in the future of work and the freelance economy. We dive into some fascinating topics that are crucial for both freelancers and the companies that hire them like: The "Expert's Curse" in consulting and h…
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185. Using AI to 10x Your Independent Consulting Business (and much more) with Gabrielle Tenaglia
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Are you paying too much in taxes as an independent consultant? You might be leaving money on the table without even realizing it. In this episode, Melisa is joined by Gabrielle Tanaglia, a seasoned fractional CMO and head of marketing at Lettuce, who shares invaluable insights about tax savings strategies, building a sustainable consulting business…
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184. Developing Your Employer of Choice Business Model as an Independent Consultant
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Do you ever think about what it would mean to design your consulting business to be an employer of choice—for yourself? Often, we think about employer branding in terms of large organizations, but it’s just as important for independent consultants and small boutique firms. In this episode, Melisa Liberman explores how to intentionally design your b…
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Episode 31: The Consultant Blueprint with Laura Burford
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Laura has been an amazing thought partner and this conversation is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of her deep expertise helping independent consultants build sustainable businesses. In this episode we talk about her consultant blueprint, becoming an accidental entrepreneur, and the future of work. To learn more about Laura, go to her website,…
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183. Consulting Clients You Could Be Overlooking & Why They Matter
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Have you been overlooking important clients in your consulting business? It's common for independent consultants to provide valuable services to clients and not "count" them for their business. In this episode, Melisa Liberman dives deep into how recognizing overlooked clients—whether it’s side gigs, unpaid work for a spouse, or volunteer positions…
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182. How to Increase Your Consulting Pricing: A Tool
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Why are some consultants able to charge an effective rate of $500+ per hour while others are stuck at $120 or $200 or $250? Many independent consultants face the challenge of increasing their rates, feeling constrained by industry norms or self-imposed personal limitations. In this episode, Melisa Liberman dives deep into the mindset shifts and pra…
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181. Transforming Into A Boutique Consultancy with Tradewinds Leadership
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Wondering if you and your partner can build a thriving consulting business together? Running a consulting business as a couple comes with its own unique challenges and opportunities. It’s normal to worry about balancing your personal and professional lives, especially when you’re also trying to niche down and grow a sustainable practice. In this ep…
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Episode 30: Fractional COO Roles with Kristin Cummings
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Kristin and I are kindred spirits! I’ve been taking on more fractional COO engagements, and I’m not alone. The rise of the Fractional C-suite freelancer has been prominent over the last few years. That’s one of the many reasons why I wanted to talk to Kristin and compare Fractional COO experiences. In 2021, Kristin took a leap of faith by leaving h…
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180. Doubting if Independent Consulting Is Worth It? Here's What to Do
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Are you questioning the sustainability of your consulting business? It's common for independent consultants to second-guess their decision to pursue a solo business, especially when the ups and downs of running a business feel like such a big responsibility. In this episode, Melisa Liberman tackles the emotional and mental challenges independent co…
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179. 3 Ways to Sell Executive Coaching as an Independent Consultant
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Are you overlooking a valuable service offering in your independent consulting business? In this episode, Melisa Liberman discusses a commonly ignored service offering that independent consultants should consider adding to their portfolios. If you're struggling to find ways to increase revenue and stand out as an independent consultant while also m…
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Episode 29: The Power of Community with Yurii Lazaruk
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Yurii is on a mission to build connections among freelancers and bring greater visibility to the joys and sorrows that we all deal with. We had a great conversation about the power of community, defining work for ourselves, and holding space for each other. Learn more about Yurri on LinkedIn and Substack. To learn more about Sarah, go to www.fruiti…
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178. How to Qualify Your Consulting Clients
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Do you find yourself accepting any client that comes your way, even if they're not the right fit? Do you talk yourself into taking on clients despite red flags? If you're an independent consultant who wants to land more ideal clients and take on more high-paying and fulfilling work, this episode is a must-listen. IN THIS EPISODE: - Discover a commo…
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177. Managing Emotional Debt to Avoid Self-Sabotaging
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Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or unfulfilled in your consulting practice? In this episode, Melisa Liberman discusses the concept of emotional debt and how it can negatively impact your consulting business results. IN THIS EPISODE: You will understand the concept of emotional debt and its impact on your consulting business. Be able to recog…
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Episode 28: The Relationship Business with Reuben Swartz
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Reuben created the “anti-CRM” for freelancers and consultants based on his own experience building a solopreneur business. His platform is based on key values that successful freelancers share, including valuing relationships above all else. In this episode talk about the power of positioning, the “relationship business,” and the non-linear journey…
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176. Set a Compound Goal for Sustainable Consulting Business Growth
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Are traditional goal-setting methods working for your consulting business? In this episode, Melisa Liberman dives into the challenges faced by independent consultants in setting and achieving sustainable goals. She reveals how typical goal-setting can lead to self-sabotage. Then, she shares a tool you can use to avoid building an underperforming, u…
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175. Quantifying the Value of Your Expertise: A Case Study for Independent Consultants
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Struggling to Quantify the Value of Your Expertise as an Independent Consultant? Do you want to move into value-based pricing but don’t know where to start? In this episode, Melisa Liberman digs into a case study that reveals the common challenges independent consultants face when trying to quantify their expertise’s value. If you’re stuck in the c…
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Episode 27: Elevating Freelancing with Úna Herlihy & Peter McPartlin
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Úna and Peter are some of my most favorite people and this conversation was one of the best so far. They started their freelance ecosystem in Ireland in response to the need for support during the pandemic and it has grown exponentially since then. In this episode we talk about having each others’ backs, learning how to build a business based on va…
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174. How to Launch a Consulting Business in 10 Steps (PART 2)
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Want to set a strong foundation for your consulting business? In this episode, part two of a 2-part series, Melisa walks you through the steps to land clients. This episode goes back to basics. If you're new to consulting, it will help you launch your consulting by setting a strong foundation. If you're an established consultant, the episode will h…
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173. How to Launch a Consulting Business in 10 Steps (PART 1)
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Are you wanting to know the best way to start or relaunch your consulting business? In this episode (part one of a two-part series), Melisa covers the 10 essential steps to set you on the path to a successful consulting business. This episode dives into the first six critical steps. In This Episode: Uncover the initial struggles of putting your bus…
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172. Filling Your Pipeline, Landing Ideal Consulting Clients, and Turning Away Work with Abbie DuBois
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Want to fill your consulting pipeline in 45 days? Want to go from a dry pipeline to landing more opportunities than you can handle? In this episode, Melisa Liberman invites Abbie DuBois to discuss how she made massive changes in her business over the course of 3 months, including filling her pipeline, landing direct clients, and learning to effecti…
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Episode 26: Financial Planning for Solopreneurs with Ryan Page
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I had a great time talking with Ryan about all things soloprenuer finances. Ryan is a solopreneur finance expert who is committed to helping business owners understand their numbers and feel in control of their money. He grew up in Southern California and went to college at Arizona State University where he graduated with a Master's Degree in Accou…
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171. Make the Most of Professional Events: Strategies to Generate More Leads as an Independent Consultant
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Want to generate leads by attending professional events but not sure how? Do you question the value of attending professional events as an independent consultant? Are you unsure how to maximize your time and investment when you're at these events, whether they are virtual or in-person? In this episode, Melisa addresses one of the most common dilemm…
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170. Being Ghosted as an Independent Consultant
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Do you find yourself being ghosted by potential clients? Does the silence after initial interest leave you feeling confused and questioning your ability to sell your consulting services? In this episode, Melisa sheds light on the perplexing and frustrating phenomenon of being ghosted, giving you the insights you need to navigate this common, yet ch…
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169 - Taking a Sabbatical as an Independent Consultant with Ashley Ryall
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Feeling burned out and uninspired as an independent consultant? Are you constantly managing an overwhelming number of responsibilities without finding fulfillment or new challenges? In this episode, features guest Ashley Ryall who shares her experience taking a sabbatical as an independent consultant. In This Episode: When to take a sabbatical as a…
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168. A Tool to Optimize How You Spend Your Time as an Independent Consultant
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Do you feel overwhelmed by the multitude of tasks you juggle as an independent consultant? Are you constantly trying to optimize your processes but still find yourself struggling to achieve a work-life balance? In this episode, Melisa tackles one of the most pressing challenges faced by independent consultants: how to maximize the time you have ava…
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Episode 25: How To Get Started as a Freelancer with David Kaplan
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David Kaplan might be a new-ish freelancer, but he already knows the key to success - you just have to try! I had such a great conversation with David talking about learning by doing, mindset shifts, and the rewards of perseverance. David is 29, from the Czech Republic, and now lives in Squamish, BC, Canada. He has a master's degree in engineering …
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167. Being Wrong About Not Needing To Work On Your Mindset
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Do you think you only need strategic advice for your independent consulting business? Think again. Many consultants believe they'll reach their goals if they're more consistent in executing their business development routines or are better able to articulate their service offerings and unique value proposition. It seems like having a clearer strate…
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166. Setting a Goal to Replace Your Corporate Income Can Backfire for Your Independent Consulting Business
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Is your goal to replace your corporate income as an independent consultant? It's common for consultants set revenue goals centered around what they were making in corporate or would be making in corporate had you stayed. You might not realize it but setting goals in this way can backfire for you as a consulting business owner. In Episode 166, Melis…
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Episode 24: Aces on Tap with Chrissy and Jim
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When you bootstrap a micro-consulting platform as a side-hustle, you are for sure a hustler. Chrissy and Jim not only have created an awesome platform for people to share and monetize their unique talents, they’ve done it in a way that honors the unique contributions of their micro-consultants (aka Aces). Chrissy is a co-founder and Chief Ace at Ac…
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165. Get In Front of More Decision-Makers to Increase Your Consulting Sales Close Rate
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Are you struggling to get in front of decision-makers? Are you landing meetings with potential clients but then getting stuck because the people you're talking to don’t have a budget or decision-making authority. This is a common problem for independent consultants, but there are ways to make it easier. In this episode, Melisa Liberman discusses st…
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164. Thinking “I’m Behind” Is Dangerous for Your Independent Consulting Business
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Are you feeling behind in your consulting business? Beware, the “I’m behind” thought process can limit your business growth. It might feel like the truth, that you’re just stating a fact. But, it’s actually a dangerous mindset that’s important to watch out for as in independent consultant. In today’s episode, Melisa explains how your mindset can sl…
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163. A Tool for Higher Converting Consulting Networking Calls
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Are you a consultant who frequently hears “I’ll keep you in mind” at the end of a networking call? Networking is an effective strategy for building a consulting pipeline. But, many consultants struggle to convert networking calls into potential opportunities. In this episode, Melisa shares an actionable tool consultants can leverage to achieve conc…
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162. Transform Your Solo Consultancy into a Center of Excellence (COE)
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When you start thinking about your independent consulting business as a center of excellence, the level of impact, fulfillment, and growth provided to your clients can dramatically shift. You’re an expert and thought leader in your field. By thinking of your consulting business as a Center of Excellence, you can set yourself up to generate more inb…
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Episode 23: The Four-Day Workweek with Joe Sanok
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In this episode of The Hustlers Manifesto podcast, I interview Joe Sanok, a father, entrepreneur, and author of the book "Thursday is the New Friday". Joe shares his journey of starting his counseling private practice in 2006 and realizing he had no business skills whatsoever. He then started a podcast to interview people and learn tips, which even…
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161. How to Overcome Discouragement as a Consulting Business Owner
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Every consulting business experiences peaks and valleys. One minute, you feel confident and successful; the next, you are ghosted by a new lead or lose a client and feel discouraged. The volatile nature of owning a consulting business might have you wondering if all the obstacles are worth it. In today's episode, Melisa shares her five-step formula…
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160. Using Diagnostics to Uncover Consulting Leads More Effectively
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Streamlining the lead generation process helps independent consultants build their consulting pipeline quicker and more effectively. In episode 159: Shorten the Consulting Sales Cycle by Offering a Diagnostic, consultants learned how offering a diagnostic will improve conversation rates by shortening the sales cycle. Today's episode continues the c…
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159. Shorten the Consulting Sales Cycle by Offering a Diagnostic
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Are you an independent consultant looking to optimize your client acquisition process and drive business growth? Whether you have a gap in your consulting pipeline or are struggling to meet revenue goals, shortening the sales process will expedite business growth. Offering diagnostics as one of your consulting service offerings is an effective way …
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Episode 22: The Myth of Competition with Adam Faulkner
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In this episode of The Hustlers Manifesto podcast, I interview Adam Faulkner, a proud freelance business owner and creator of the "Be FreelanceAF" course. Adam shares his journey of founding his freelance video production business "CreativeAF" at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020 and how he hasn't looked back since. We discuss the importance of…
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158. Leveraging Channels to Fill Your Consulting Pipeline
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Independent consultants need easy ways to fill and improve the quality of their consulting pipelines. How can you build channel relationships so that other people refer ideal clients to you? In this episode, Melisa explains how to leverage channels to fill your consulting pipeline. Intentionally building relationships with third parties to generate…
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