Clever Counsel #9 - Capitalize on Uncertainty
Periods of economic instability and uncertainty can be boom times for consultants and contractors.
It may sound callous to say it that way, but it’s the truth.
When business leaders are making operating decisions in a tumultuous environment, they’re much more likely to prioritize risk management and cost efficiency.
They still need to get the work done, but they also need to find more adaptable, scalable and nimble ways of doing it. They need to be prepared for any possible scenario or outcome - because they’re not sure what’s coming next.
And when a leader needs adaptability and efficiency, there’s no better solution than contract support.
In this moment of uncertainty, I want to equip you with some talking points to consider weaving into your messaging - both in one-on-one conversations and prospecting, as well as in your public-facing content.
Feel free to pull from or build on these messages:
Adding full-time headcount means risk and long-term commitment. It requires making predictions and promises about tomorrow that you may not be comfortable making.
Keeping a big agency on retainer is also a long-term commitment - and a huge money drain. This is becoming a less viable (and less appealing) model for even the largest corporate teams.
When you're questioning full-time hiring and big agency spend, what’s left? How will you get it all done and continue to deliver for your customers, stakeholders, shareholders and senior leadership?
The obvious solution is keeping a range of consultants on-call for month-to-month needs.
We consultants and contractors know how to jump in fast to solve problems, reimagine strategy or simply provide day-to-day support.
We don’t require commitments and expensive comp packages. We work with the understanding that tomorrow isn’t promised, and we don’t expect any guarantees.
We’re there when you need us - in whichever capacity makes sense. And if you’re not sure what makes sense, we can advise you on that and work together to build a plan that works for you.
When things are slow (and budget is tight) - we don't eat up your resources. We’re waiting in the wings - cheering for you, rooting for your success, and waiting for the next moment of need.
Consultants and contractors can be your lifeline in uncertain, tumultuous times.
What will the business landscape look like in 6 months? What will your customers want from you in two years?
If you’re not sure where we’re headed, now is the time to restructure your resources to minimize risk and conserve costs.
There’s a time for adding to your full time headcount.
There’s a time for keeping a big agency on retainer.
Now is the time for contract support.
