The Free Birds Revolution with Miles Everson, CEO of MBO | Ep. 205 · Grow Your Independent Consulting Business summary

Key takeaways

Adopt a mission mindset to stay motivated and differentiate yourself as an independent consultant.
Focus client conversations on the outcomes and results you provide, rather than justifying your independent business model.
Understand and leverage the trends affecting the independent consulting landscape, including the increasing acceptance of freelance and independent work.
Engage with the 'State of Independence' study to gain insights into the independent workforce's challenges and successes.
Aim to build a small number of predictable clients rather than pursuing a high volume of clients.

Summary

Understanding the Evolving Landscape for Independent Consultants

In this episode, Melissa Lieberman welcomes Miles Everson, CEO of MBO Partners, to explore the dynamics of the independent consulting market. Miles shares that MBO Partners, a pioneer platform connecting independent consultants with businesses, offers valuable resources to help independents thrive. They discuss how enterprise clients view independent consultants, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing workplace trends, including the fractionalization of work and the shift in client expectations.

Key Insights on Success for Independent Consultants

Miles introduces the concept of a 'mission mindset' for independent consultants, framing their work as mission-driven, which empowers them to stay focused and differentiate themselves in the market. The conversation shifts to mistakes consultants often make, particularly in justifying their independent status. Instead, they should emphasize the value and results they deliver to clients, maintaining a client-centric approach.

Exploring the Free Bird Revolution Book

Miles discusses his new book, 'Free Birds Revolution', which highlights six forces shaping the future of work while providing practical insights for independent consultants. The book targets both independent professionals and enterprise clients, providing dual perspectives on successful engagement strategies and the advantages of independent consulting. Miles articulates the intent behind the book—not just to advocate for independent careers but to enhance awareness of this growing segment of the workforce.

Trends from the State of Independence Study

The dialogue includes insights from MBO's annual 'State of Independence' study which has been conducted for over a decade. Miles notes that a significant percentage of independent consultants report greater happiness, health, and financial security compared to full-time employees. This study reveals that while predictable income remains a central challenge, confidence in independent consulting as a sustainable career path is increasing, reflecting broader acceptance of this working model.

Practical Advice for Independent Consultants

To wrap up the conversation, Miles offers practical advice for independent consultants looking to build their client base. He emphasizes the importance of acquiring a handful of predictable clients, underscoring that success often comes from a few key relationships rather than chasing a high volume of clients. He encourages independent consultants to actively define their value proposition tailored to diverse audiences to effectively communicate their strengths.

Show notes

In this episode, Melisa sits down with Miles Everson, CEO of MBO Partners, a leading marketplace that connects independent consultants with enterprise and mid-sized businesses. Melisa and Miles dive into the key qualities of successful consultants, sharing insights about common mistakes to avoid and strategies for staying competitive in the fast-evolving independent market. Miles also gives listeners a sneak peek into his book, Free Birds Revolution, where he uncovers the six forces shaping the future of work and how consultants can position themselves to thrive.

Adopting a Mission Mindset
As independent consultants, adopting a mission mindset can be a powerful way to stay motivated and driven. Having a clear mission keeps you focused and helps differentiate you in the marketplace. By framing your work as solving a specific problem or fulfilling a mission for your clients, you align your efforts with their goals, creating real value and impact.

Mistakes Independent Consultants Should Avoid
Avoid justifying why you're working as an independent consultant. Client conversations should focus on the value you're delivering and the results you're achieving, not the method you use to execute your work. Keep your attention on the success you’re creating for your clients and the impact you're making.

Overview of Free Birds Revolution: The Future of Work and the Independent Mind
Miles shares insights from his book, including the six forces shaping the future of work and the qualities that make independent consultants successful. He connects the topics in his book to a trend highlighted in the State of Independence study by MBO Partners, showing how the independent workforce drives demand for specialized platforms and solutions that streamline business operations.

Is your goal to differentiate yourself as an independent consultant with enterprise and mid-sized businesses?

Make sure to listen to episode 205 to find out how.

Full show notes and more information: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-205/

Check out Miles’ book, Free Birds Revolution: The Future of Work and the Independent Mind

Review the 2024 State of Independence study conducted by MBO Partners.

Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

The Free Birds Revolution with Miles Everson, CEO of MBO | Ep. 205