Reader,

In a crowded market, standing out as an independent consultant takes more than experience and expertise. It requires clear, consistent strategies and actions that position you as the "Go-To" expert. But what strategies, what actions, and how?

Some consultants I’ve spoken with are struggling to stand out and share comments like “I’ve been told I must write a book” or “I started a podcast, but I’m not sure it’s helping me".

The truth is, those aren’t bad ideas. However, often the basics that truly help you stand out are overlooked and the basics are more than doable.

That’s why I’ve outlined seven foundational or basic strategies that build credibility, attract the right clients, and grow your reputation as the “Go-To” expert. The seven strategies are:

• Narrow Your Focus: Generalists often get lost in the crowd, while specialists are memorable and easy to refer.
• Develop a Distinct Point of View (POV): Your POV is your unique philosophy on why problems exist and how you solve them setting you apart as a thought leader. Another way to think about your POV is, it is your differentiator.
• Position Your Services as Outcome-Based Solutions: Clients care about outcomes and benefits they want to achieve, not hours or tasks.
• Provide Value-Based Content: Consistently share insights tied to your perspective. You already have more content than you think without needing to create anything new.
• Build Strategic Relationships: Purposeful networking with the right people is key to building trusted relationships and opportunities.
• Become an Expert in the Discovery Meeting: This important conversation is where you ask powerful, insightful questions to uncover your clients real needs and earn trust.
• Keep Learning and Evolving: Stay relevant by understanding and adapting market shifts with in your industry as well as emerging trends so that you can help clients navigate what's next.

For a deeper dive into each strategy complete with examples and action tips that you can implement right away download:

Not sure where to start?

Until the next Consulting Insight,

Laura

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Whenever You’re Ready, Here’s How I Can Help

​Consulting Mastery: Build a Successful Consulting Business That Works for You​
An online group program for independent consultants who want consistent results and are ready to take ownership of their success. You’ll get a framework with strategy, tactics, support, and community. Schedule a free 45-minute Consulting Strategy Session to explore whether it’s a fit for you.

​Resources to Support You​
Practical guides and tools designed to give you clarity and assist you with your next steps including:

• ​The Independent Consultant’s Blueprint©: Your guide to confidence and building a successful business
• ​The Consultant Assessment: Discover where you are today and what to focus on next

​YouTube Channel​
Educational videos and interviews based on the Consultant’s Blueprint©. Topics include defining your focus, attracting the right clients, building trusted relationships, and more.

​Weekly Newsletter​
Stay connected with weekly advice, resources, and real-world stories to help you build and grow your consulting business.

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Have a question? Send me an email at Laura@lauraburford.com.

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