How can you differentiate your start-up consulting services from other practitioners?

To differentiate, it's best to choose an angle so you specialize vs. being a generalist. Here are some unconventional ways to differentiate your startup consultancy as you define your niche: - Focus on a specific underserved community (e.g. women/minority-owned startups) and address challenges unique to that group. - Develop expertise in an emerging industry/technology trend so you become known as the "go-to" consultant in that space. - Carve out a micro-niche by targeting very specific problems. - Consult for startups in a certain geography/region that you're deeply familiar with. - Provide services for mission-driven startups addressing global issues like climate change, healthcare access, etc.

How to be a #ThoughtLeader in Consulting ?? ? ??Niche Expertise: Money is in the #MicroNiche ?? Client-Centric Approach: Customize solutions and offer exceptional service. ?? Highlight Proven Success: Leverage past achievements and client testimonials. ?? Network & Collaborate: Partner with others for comprehensive services. ?? Clear Messaging: Convey value propositions effectively. ?? Stay Updated: Adapt to industry trends and startup needs. ?? Content Sharing: Establish thought leadership through content. ?? Add Value: Share insights and best practices. Be Volunteer & Mentor ??♂? Walk Away: If not a right fit, refer to experts in your network. Stand out, provide value, and build lasting relationships! ???? #ConsultingLife

I don't believe that these Thought Leadership articles are intended to benefit the community, I believe they are intended to benefit Microsoft to develop and improve software such as Copilot, with the end goal of removing independent third-party service providers from the books of large corporations. I will not be contributing to my own demise, and I suggest that others refrain too.

?? How to stand out in Startup Consulting and avoid being in #SeaOfSameness ! ?? ?? Niche Expertise: Specialize for impact. ?? Stay Unique: Showcase Specialised experience. ?? Client-Centric: Customize, excel! ?? Highlight Success: Collect testimonials and showcase. ?? Network Smart: Partner and collab for all-in-one service. ?? Clear Message: Define boundaries. ?? Stay Current: Adapt to trends. ?? Share Insights: Establish authority and #ThoughtLeadership. ?? Add Value: Share best practices within the community. ?? Give Back: Be a Volunteer & amentor. ??♂? Graceful Referrals: Redirect when needed. Stay away from FOMO. Stand out, deliver value, build relationships! ???? #StartupConsulting #ThoughtLeadership

I don't believe that these Thought Leadership articles are intended to benefit the community, I believe they are intended to benefit Microsoft to develop and improve software such as Copilot, with the end goal of removing independent third-party service providers from the books of large corporations. I will not be contributing to my own demise, and I suggest that others refrain too.

By establishing yourself as an authority in your niche, you also build credibility and trust amongst future employees. In my experience, when hiring, prospective employees will review your social platforms. Prospective clients and employees want to see that you are active and hear your thoughts and opinions that make you relatable and likable. You can make mini-series that engage your audience, such as a "story time" or "day in the life" vlog across social platforms. Consistency and continuing to expand how you show up is crucial.

I don't believe that these Thought Leadership articles are intended to benefit the community, I believe they are intended to benefit Microsoft to develop and improve software such as Copilot, with the end goal of removing independent third-party service providers from the books of large corporations. I will not be contributing to my own demise, and I suggest that others refrain too.

Every #CorporateDropOut is a consultant these days. Nothing wrong with it, but delivering exceptional results as a consultant is tough. Establishing yourself as a #ThoughtLeader in the consulting business requires a fine balance and a combination between expertise, #StrategicThinking, Clear communication and a well established #ExecutivePresence. How ? Define Your Niche: Stand out and be seen as an expert in a field. Understand Client Needs: Take the time to thoroughly understand your clients' challenges and expectations. Tailor your services : Avoid one-size-fits-all solutions. Meet the unique needs. Feedback and Improvement: Use it to improve services continuously. Build your #PersonalBrand : And #MarketYourself !

I don't believe that these Thought Leadership articles are intended to benefit the community, I believe they are intended to benefit Microsoft to develop and improve software such as Copilot, with the end goal of removing independent third-party service providers from the books of large corporations. I will not be contributing to my own demise, and I suggest that others refrain too.

Best of us shy away from asking for a referral from a satisfied clients. But Why ? In real world asking is difficult because of fear of rejection. However, it's crucial for building credibility and attracting new clients. Overcome this and focus on providing value and politely request feedback from satisfied clients. Timing is Key: Ask when they are most satisfied with services. Make it Easy: Provide a template for testimonials. Personalise: Reach out personally and ask. Highlight Benefits: Explain how their testimonial can benefit others. Return the Favor: Barter and Offer to help if needed. Satisfied clients usually help you if the request respectful and straightforward. #ConsultingLife #ThoughtLeadership #PersonalBranding

I don't believe that these Thought Leadership articles are intended to benefit the community, I believe they are intended to benefit Microsoft to develop and improve software such as Copilot, with the end goal of removing independent third-party service providers from the books of large corporations. I will not be contributing to my own demise, and I suggest that others refrain too.

Personal commitment to the professional growth fosters trust and credibility with clients. Staying updated in a rapidly evolving business landscape, adapting to client needs and global market dynamics is a key differentiator in startup consulting services. Continuously acquiring new skills enables consultants to deepen their expertise and to become trusted subject matter expert and #ThoughtLeader, setting them apart from generalists. By sharing newfound knowledge through thought leadership content establishes consultants as industry thought leaders, enhancing their visibility and attracting clients seeking expert guidance. Clients are more likely to choose consultants dedicated to staying at the forefront of their field.

I don't believe that these Thought Leadership articles are intended to benefit the community, I believe they are intended to benefit Microsoft to develop and improve software such as Copilot, with the end goal of removing independent third-party service providers from the books of large corporations. I will not be contributing to my own demise, and I suggest that others refrain too.

Measure Impact This doesn’t necessarily have to be through testimonials but more to do with quantifying growth metrics. For instance if you bring in different partners, you could mention what those industry partners bring to the table, what the association does for business and growth. Measuring impact and quantifying it is easier to comprehend. While you may offer great qualitative insights which fuels a business but talking about helping execute and growing is what matters. No startup owner today, has time for coaching, they want doers. People who will do it alongside or for them because the one thing an entrepreneur is always short of, is time.

Instead of merely asserting your distinctiveness, it's more effective to demonstrate how your unique thinking can reshape your clients' perspectives. A compelling approach is to veer away from conventional text-heavy proposals. As an example, consider crafting a narrative that mirrors the client's problem-solving journey, showcasing how your approach leads to resolution. In one instance, we produced a storybook with professionally designed pages and secured a significant contract. Similarly, for a restaurant client, we presented a proposal styled as an à la carte menu, illustrating how consuming the menu's offerings addresses their challenges. Creative, out-of-the-box thinking often yields remarkable results.

I don't believe that these Thought Leadership articles are intended to benefit the community, I believe they are intended to benefit Microsoft to develop and improve software such as Copilot, with the end goal of removing independent third-party service providers from the books of large corporations. I will not be contributing to my own demise, and I suggest that others refrain too.

Be Flexible: Startups often work long hours, including weekends. If you can match their schedule, you're golden. Be Resourceful: Most startups have constraints, be it financial or industry connections. Leveraging your resources to assist them can be a significant advantage. Be Adaptable: Having a proven methodology and customizing it to fit individual client needs and executing it smoothly is key. Be Passionate: Show genuine excitement for your client's projects. Such enthusiasm reflects positively on your work's quality. Willing to Offer Extra: It's not about billing every working hour. Little gestures, like sharing a relevant industry article without being asked, can strengthen your relationship with clients.