Frameworks Are Not a Personality

Lesson learnt: don’t hide behind the model.

As consultants, we love a framework.

5 Hats. PESTEL. The 3 Cs. 9 box matrix and on and on.

But if you drop a slick framework on a client without context, they may smile and nod—but inside they’re thinking, “What are you talking about?”

Remember that frameworks are not rigid rules but more like...guidelines. 🏴‍☠️

The point isn’t to sound smart. The point is to be flexible and adapt your frameworks so that you can make progress together. So explain it in their terms. Translate it. Tweak it. Make it feel like theirs.

🧠 Fancy frameworks don’t deliver value—shared understanding does.

#Consulting #Frameworks #ClientSuccess #LessonsLearnt

Sticky Preparedness

Lesson learnt: always be prepared (especially for a last-minute workshop).

Last year, I turned up to a workshop and found no pens or post it notes. Now, it wasn't technically my job to bring them, but still—why shouldn’t I be ready? As an experienced consultant, I should be ready for a quick workshop wherever and whenever.

Now I carry a mini workshop kit everywhere. Sticky notes and pens. Just in case.

And yes, my wife did give me a look when I conducted an impromptu options analysis workshop at a 1-year-old’s birthday party.

But you just never know when you might need a post it note — I am always prepared!

What's the why on this? Why is it good to be prepared?

1. There should be no single point of failure in your team. Have their back, support each other and be bus-proof!

   
   

2. It builds trust with clients. Be known for being prepared and your clients will learn they can rely on you.

3. Practice what you preach. As consultants we love a workshop so should be ready to spin one up when duty calls!

🟦🖊️ One team. No single point of failure. Always bring the sticky notes.

#Workshops #Preparedness #LessonsLearnt #ConsultingLife

Visuals Make Everything Clearer

🖼 Today's Quick Lessons Learnt: A picture is worth a thousand words (and a whole lot of confused faces saved).

Before your next client call, prepare two images:

1️⃣ A high-level overview for people new to the topic—so they get the big picture fast.

2️⃣ A detailed breakdown of where you need input—so they know exactly where to focus.

The result? Fewer misunderstandings, clearer discussions, and faster decision-making.

How do you use visuals to clarify complex ideas? Let’s swap tips 👇

#Communication #Clarity #LessonsLearnt