How to turn a break-down,into a break-through ~ Client & Consultant Series (cont’d)

When you complete anything, there is a break-down or completion process. There is a lot to be said for the ending and completion of a project, with grace. It is often left to the project, how it is going to be handled. When I say that I mean, the entire time, you are on a live project it is a living and breathing entity; has its own personality, likes and dislikes. In addition, to the personality of the project, there is also the reality of the players in the project, the vendors, the client and the reason you took the project on. In the last six months, I have taken a more deliberate approach to my business. In doing so, I am very committed to supporting the client. Tip: Create your own system and structure to breaking down a project. From a Production/Development perspective this is usually the only thing between chaos and getting paid!

I am in agreement with Dr. Linne in using the New world approach to creating business, and conducting myself. It is such a challenge when you are working on a project and need to be your most creative and you’re dealing with doubt, worry and fear. Now, this is the key to the Old world state of being. I’m going to use FEAR to generate a response from you. Now as a Consultant, being requested to bring your ability to a project that without would not thrive or excel, it is confrontational and destructive to throw wrenches in my process. I confess, I’m not who I say I am. I mean, you’ve all been hearing that I’m working in Social Media PR, which is true, I am however, I should also say that it is 15 years of experiences, projects, opportunities and personalities that creates the work that I do and am requested to do. It is magic like my nephew says when he feels the wind, not to be sold, taught or bottled. My niche is the way I approach a project, and all the community connected to it. Tip: Toot your own horn!  I recently was reminded that we are here to bring our special skills to serve.   When you know your skills with-holding them, will uphold your good and your abundance.

I respects and honor  the time, degrees, expertise of my clients, and they in turn need to acknowledge and appreciate my specialty as well. Given the sensitive and often seriously acute time factor, the reality is that if my plan, the plan of action that I created, and inquired how to cultivate the project is not upheld, it’s going to have a serious impact on how I do my job. My skill is subtle, connected and works on the support and the energy of a fully functional and realized being.   Challenging to say the least, a skill that most people do not have the patience or the capacity to handle. Being a master of many areas, means that you are aware when the ball gets dropped. If you remove the ball from the game all-together no one can have the chance to play. Tip: Focus on the goal of the project, why did you take the project on to begin with?  What inspired you about this particular community?  This is what remains clear even when the client is fighting the process, doubting you, that goal is the only thing that matters.

My grandmother used to say “if you have nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all”. Often in any industry we become jaded, despondent and set in our ways.   However,  this resolution prevents your business from thriving and shifting, as change is the only thing that is inevitable.  Embrace it, express your gratitude even when it is not ideal. We’ve got to take the high’s with the low’s, and thanking the process is always necessary, without it, you would cease to create a business!  The wonderful opportunity I have as a consultant is that I don’t have room from the break-down to stay there, I’m a small light universe, and being a sole consultant means that I don’t create on the ‘industry standard’ protocol. That’s not who I am, or what my skills represent. I re-define what ‘industry standard’ means, as there is not standard except the one I set. For example, if the standard way of being puts payment to vendor’s at 30, 60 or 90 days after the completion of the event/project, I want nothing to do with those standards. You get the job done, you deliver on your process and follow-through with me, then your time, your ability are valued. Payment is imminent. If there is any delay of your payment, take into consideration how you would feel if your income was being with-held. (My standard is 5% for any delay over 7 days) Tip: Create your own standards, and stick with them. Your clients, and your bottom line will thank you for it.

My grandfather used to say something to me that would be I think an ideal way to complete this conversation…’you can’t work for free’. When there is any break-down in communication, funding, flow, there always has to be a boundary that you as a consultant sets. The line that sometimes must be drawn gets easier and more clear as your experiences grow, however, one thing is always present, that you have to set it. Tip: Being a good consultant does not always mean being ‘liked’ this is not a popularity contest. It is a challenge to know when to draw the line, but that’s life.. full of challenges and in these, with these break-down’s the aha moment that is revealed in the break-through is priceless, and without question worth all the bumps to achieve.

Happy Planning & New Guest Interview Next Week…Lots of great changes on the horizon!!

Micaela

Can’t we all just get along? Client & Consultant Satisfaction w/Dr. Linne Bourget Part I

So, last week, I wrote about the satisfaction and happiness of the Consultant, not just the Client. Well, with over 900 views on my Posterous blog..(http://bit.ly/ckwanpos)
It seemed like I struck a chord so, I wanted to continue the topic and I’m bringing some reinforcements. Over the course of the next several weeks, I will be bringing some guests, and favorite folks to discuss what and how they approach being ‘Ambassador’s’ in their areas. Please, drop your questions, air your comments and let me know, what you think? Away we go!

My first guest to this discussion, Client & Consultant satisfaction, is Dr. Linne Bourget. I met Dr. Bourget at an Amega Global Super Saturday, and needless to say, she left a distinct impression, beaming with positivity, a great smile and a laugh that could only be described as infectious…it took us all of 5 minutes to mind connect and discover that we were both Military kids he rest as they say is here! When I called her a few weeks ago to share what I was up to with my new blog and this process of being a Corporate Mystic in the Social Media PR industry, she was very excited to share and I was to listen…

MC: I’d like to introduce everyone to Dr. Linne Bourget. Dr. Linne (I call her) combines analytical, multidisciplinary strategic thinking with systematic intuition and a dynamic positive approach. Dr. Bourget, leadership futurist, is the national pioneer in positive appreciative strengths-based change leadership systems for rapid change, consulting with executives in business, government, and health care for 25 years. Dr. Bourget’s practical Ph.D. in Change Leadership (with studies at Harvard and MIT) and M.A. in Psychology are from Boston University. She has a University of Chicago M.B.A. & B.A. in Economics. She has worked her way through four degrees, making the academic practical. A 4th-generation intuitive, she is a founding and the longest running member of Mark Victor Hansen’s Mega Inner Circle.

Dr. Linne, I am so happy to have to weigh in on this discussion. So, as I’ve spoken about to you, I am growing my Social Media PR business, and have focused on how to be more supportive and connected to what my Clients are asking for but, also what I like to say, what they are not asking for. How are  you an expert in this area and what exactly do you do?

Dr. L: Thank you, well I am so glad that you called, our connection was obvious I have looked forward to speaking with you. My work is on the leading edge of practical and deeply positive approaches to change. As a “leadership futurist”, I am dedicated to supporting the positive approach to transforming ‘old power’ dynamic’s and approach to business to the ‘new power’ idea economy which we are all currently operating in.

MC: Interesting, can you distinguish for everyone what the difference is between the ‘Old and New’ power dynamic? This sounds like a lot of what I’ve noticed in the industries of business period.

Dr. L: Micaela, the shift is happening in every industry. The difference between ‘Old‘ power and ‘New‘ power is something that I’ve discussed and writing about since the early 80’s. When I created this distinction I realized that in the ‘Old‘ system we are dedicated to tearing people down to re-build them up. Heavy criticism, penalties for poor performance, and the like. In the ‘New‘ system, the basis for my work and business with the first rule, do no harm. My goal is not only to create a collaborative process for my clients, and their staff and employees, with the focus being on identifying, appreciating and applying everyone’s strengths. That means, actively and constructively unleashing everyone’s greatest talents, and gifts.

MC: I like to say that my role is to cultivate the ‘super-hero qualities’ in my team!

Dr.L: Exactly! This is the dynamic that one need’s to show to cultivate true change, and turn around a crisis, without losing one’s power, credibility, or creativity. I announce it, very clearly, very obviously to my hiring client, I am for the positive focus on what is working, and empowering the community and culture that I’ve been asked to support. My goal is to truly see and appreciate what is working well. It has been my clear observation and experience over the course of years of high-level corporate consulting, that the positive always works…always.

MC: So could you give us some broad strokes of how you would support a failing or corporate culture that is not doing well? Using your Corporate Mystic approach of course.

Dr. L: Yes, I like that. Well, first things first. I check in with my guides, my team of angels, and spiritual support tools. This is the most part of what I do, my Intuition when I’m working with clients is in the 90% accuracy range. My intuitive approach is also in co-creating with very savvy, extremely intellectual and talented people.

MC: Wow! So I’m not the only one that checks in before, checking in! That is very impressive, Dr. Linne, 90% is like right on correct? What has been your reaction from clients, in such corporate and science based industries, are they confused or do they roll with it?

Dr. L: Well, when I pursued my degrees I wanted to create a practical approach to my life. As a rule, I don’t mention spirituality at all. I use my spiritual  background to ground my work, to create a higher level playing field to work.

MC: Hmm…(Smiling)

Dr. L: I mean, I don’t talk about spirituality directly to a client. I focus on the most neutral and positive approach to cultivate change, in the areas of Science, Technology and Business where most of my clients thrive, spirituality would initially make them uncomfortable.  The truth is Micaela that a few of the most traditional, and highly devout people, get it! Often very creative, outside of their ‘corporate’ positions, musicians, botanists, artists, very multi-talented people…they look at me, with a question in their eyes, like what are you really doing?  These groups of people are usually the one’s that soar with success!

MC: So, basically the energy of positive re-enforcement with the background in discipline, the discipline of prayer or meditation already in their history has a more profound impact on their ability to be more effective and productive leaders in their business…that is the power of deep appreciation and respect for the Clients.

We’re going to pause right there…and continue our discussion with Dr. Linne in our next posting Part II.  In the mean-time, Dr. Linne Bourget’s can be contacted at her firm, The Institute for Transformation Leaders & Consultants, in Scottsdale, Arizona.  She provides practical, positive, collaborative, easier and faster. She has a University of Chicago M.B.A. & B.A. in Economics. Her most recent book From Old Power to New Power: Which Leaders Will Survive?  is available on www.amazon.com

In audio form which is in a 5 hr, book on Please contact Dr. Linne directly at her site for purchase and inquiries for CDs.

For any further information on Dr. Bourget and of course to ask about her services and many books, ebooks and articles on her site’s services and products page below, if you are in need of an expert in the field are here:

http://drlinnebourget.blogspot.com/
http://www.whatyousayiswhatyouget.com/services.html

Till Later,
Happy Planning & Blessings
Micaela

The Client must always be happy but, how about the Consultant?

Part II-

So, when I initially wrote this Rule 1 I was totally real about my perspective and my opinion…but I left one important factor out…the happiness of the Consultant! Often called in to complete miracles in an abbreviated and or new project, the challenge is actually never getting the work done, but being prevented from getting your work done.  It is a wonderful experience to have the work and the knowledge of well, time and experience; but personality, and resources are what makes the Consultant’s job possible.

Tip: Definitely communicate with your team, and your vendors on a regular basis so they are familiar with you, your work ethic and style of conducting business.  Frequently, without a safety net you are responsible for completing, and engaging in a high level of conversation and commitment and this must be met with integrity. All we have is our word in this life, so when people know your word, and how you handle your projects, when a problem arises, it can just be that, a problem and not reasoned as your issue.

Also, check in with yourself.  Are your needs being met to complete the project?  When you are you starting, stopping, being paid for wrapping-up?  Be sure to get the  necessary information, supporting documents, and calendar.  There is nothing worse than attempting to run, and support a Social Media Campaign and you have not been brought current on the Who, What, Where, When Why and How?  Take the time to air and ask  for a  time-out, to express what is in need of shifting in order for you to fulfill your role, in the project.

Tip: Create an overall intake sheet for running acute projects. Implement your favorite techniques, color, games, contests, etc to gain support, interest and fun in your work/professional mode. Utilize the format that works best for you as well.

Finally, this is a fly by the seat of your pants business, but just cause everyone else is jumping does that mean that you have to?  Invest in yourself, listening to your inner voice, and instinct on when it looks wrong, feels wrong and is too hard; Occam’s Razor, the thing that is the most obvious is usually the answer.  Following your internal pole is what will keep you on course and without issue when the time, resources and responsibility all come to a grinding halt.

I was just reminded of how tenuous this life and work can be.  It is never a guarantee that all will end smoothly but what is guaranteed is your ability as a consultant, as a steward of service, to rise to the challenge, as it is and surpass it!  You are resource that must be the eye of the storm.  Go forth and be the all-seeing eye, keeping your head, your thoughts and your mouth focused on creating a Win-Win scenario in every discussion.

I remain on the path of the “Corporate Mystic” & trust in my ability and possibility to always get the job done. Blessings to my fellow Mystics & entrepreneurs and please take a look at my earlier positing from 4.30.10!

Part 1: (April 30th Posting)

I recall when I began working with clients, it was my sophomore year of college. I got a job during my Work-Study as a Personal Assistant, to the Director of the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Project, on campus. It was such a relief, I admit, as being on Work-Study, you were responsible to find a place that would fit you and your schedule every year! What a feat, as you are dealing with the personalities of campus offices, administration, bureaucracy and so many hoops to jump, I had no idea how wet my feet were getting with experience. My enjoyment was in seeing and knowing that every day, no matter how crazy class was with my reading or assignments, that I could carve out 4 hours a day, and manifest completion out of chaos.

My supervisor was the best opportunity that a young, and entrepreneurial woman like myself could have asked for. She was not savvy about computers, or email or using the phone system. This lack of technological know-how, put me in a position of learning how to break down a procedure to use a program step-by-step, what needed to be noted, and ignored, and most importantly how to allow my supervisor to be more efficient and have more time for her patients.

It was a sad day when I left, after being in service to the ADAP office through my 3 years of my college career, an allegedly rare scenario in Work-Study. I had amassed so much knowledge, nuances in conduct on a confidential level, as all the patients were my fellow peers on campus. In addition to putting the entire office, online, and systematizing all of her patient files, and personal files, I also managed to learn what it was to work with a client. My supervisor had to choose to hire me back every single year, and she was challenging to work with as she had no want to step into utilizing technology, a tool that we know now is a part of making an office, a project or a person work with discipline.

It is always my goal to work with a client until they are totally satisfied. This means that you create a clear and direct line of communication, responsibility and goals, as both of us need to know what we’re getting into. When you have this primary and vital rule followed, the client’s happiness above all else, the process will be effortless and easy. If you enjoy what you do, like I enjoy being of service and starting with a great idea, and working it through till the champagne is being poured. So, think about your goals, be real with your client, and please from the perspective of a Professional Consultant, we can’t read minds…at least not all of us can, so honesty is the best policy, with your Vendor/Consultant.

Good luck out there and Happy Planning…

Micaela

Rule 4 – Think like a child, and try something different

So thinking back to my first major event I was still a student at Mount Holyoke College.  One of the cool things about being an undergrad at a small liberal-arts school like MHC was that you had an opportunity to take on professional capacities while still being considerably in-experienced.  The benefit of this naive perspective was that I was permitted to be very creative, inventive and encouraged to try new things.

The event, a traditional women’s celebratory school event, I decided to make a community-based event.  As the Director of the Event and the manager for the 10 additional committee members I was very interested in engaging the ideas and endeavors of all of my peers at school.  However, what I put to a vote was what our celebration would look like with the support of our local vendors, business, and entrepreneurs in the area.  The committee and I went full-force into making a new tradition, while keeping the energy of Pangynaskeia present we also wanted to step it into a modern context.

We integrated all of our childhood memories of Carnivals, Coney Island and local fairs, and created a 2-day event in the center of campus.  Collaborating with the Campus Activities Department, Buildings and Grounds, the President’s Office, and all of the Student Groups and Clubs on campus was worth every late night and strained morning!  It was such a success, I had fellow students, and even the President Joanne Crighton at the time, express to me, what a blast they had.  Between the cotton candy, the clowns, mimes, live performances, great vendor clothing and art, the entire campus was a buzz with activity.  Kids, and their parents, students and their friends, teachers, staff and faculty.  It was an amazing and crazy plan…but, we had the time and the support to make it a reality.  Not to mention, if I say I will manifest it, I stop until we’ve won the fun!

So remember to keep the inspiration in your life.  In doing so, you are able to keep the spark and the creativity in your events and in your business.  Making sure never to use the same method twice, will keep you and your clients going back for more fun and spectacle!

Till Later

Micaela

aka ~ Action Girl