01 Oct Don’t Call Me the “C” Word!
Typically when you meet someone, the first question asked is “What do you do?” I must admit I find this question challenging, because I want to answer beyond the expected five-word response of my position and specialty.
I usually say something such as, “I work with business owners and company management to create, develop and measure a marketing strategy and execution. My goal is to increase their value proposition and ROI. In many situations it is their first foray into the marketing and sales realm, so it’s a growth and learning experience.”
After that somewhat lengthy description, the resounding reply is, “Oh, you’re a consultant.” I often retort with, “Don’t call me the ‘C’ word!”
I go way beyond consulting; I PARTNER with my clients. I consider consulting not to be a true relationship; to me, it is a position of looking at things from the outside. When I partner with a client, I require myself to be an integral member of the team. I ask a lot of questions to properly assess for effective recommendations. Then, I ensure that outcomes are measured to identify what works and what needs improving.
Only when you partner together are you able to achieve objectives for the greatest results and set future benchmarks. Call me the “P” word all day. I can take it.