Published on 2024-10-27 by Marcus Tober

5+ years of consulting, here’s what I learned

In this insightful email, Eli Schwartz reflects on his five-year journey as a consultant, emphasizing the importance of preparation and strategic planning before making the leap into consulting. The core idea revolves around the necessity of having a robust pipeline of potential leads before quitting a full-time job, as this significantly increases the chances of success in the consulting realm. Schwartz shares his personal experience of transitioning from a secure job to consulting, highlighting that he was fortunate to have a steady stream of inbound interest, which allowed him to make the transition without financial pressure.

The email is thought-provoking as it challenges the common notion that one can simply jump into consulting without adequate preparation. Schwartz provides a clear point of view that emphasizes the importance of being methodical and strategic in this career move. He warns against the pitfalls of leaving a stable job without a solid plan, noting that many who do so end up frustrated and in need of immediate employment.

Key insights from Schwartz include the critical advice to build a pipeline of leads, the inevitability of client churn, and the importance of overdelivering value to retain clients. He also stresses the significance of personal branding, networking, and treating the consulting practice as a serious business rather than a hobby. Schwartz provides ten actionable tips for aspiring consultants, such as being selective with clients, testing pricing strategies, and investing in personal development and business infrastructure.

Overall, the email serves as a comprehensive guide for those considering a consulting career, encouraging them to approach the transition with caution and preparation. Schwartz’s recommendations are not only practical but also serve to inspire confidence in those looking to embark on a similar path. His final thoughts suggest that consulting can be a fulfilling career for some, while it may not suit everyone, thus inviting readers to reflect on their own career aspirations and readiness for such a transition.
Source: Eli’s Newsletter
Date: October 23rd, 2024

Wrong direction

In a recent email, Kevin Indig provides a critical analysis of Google’s current challenges and leadership changes, particularly focusing on the implications of Prabhakar Raghavan’s demotion and the broader struggles within the company. The core idea revolves around the notion that Google is facing significant hurdles in maintaining its dominance in search and adapting to the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI). Indig argues that Raghavan’s tenure was marked by a series of missteps, including a cluttered search experience and a lack of clarity in algorithm updates, which have led to user dissatisfaction and a decline in Google’s reputation. He highlights the Department of Justice’s aggressive stance against Google, which could potentially lead to structural changes that would further weaken its market position. The email also discusses the growing competition from generative AI platforms, which are beginning to capture market share from Google, signaling a shift in user behavior and expectations. Indig emphasizes the importance of Google’s brand reputation as a key asset, suggesting that despite its current challenges, the company still holds a significant market share. However, he raises concerns about the future of Google’s advertising model in a world increasingly dominated by AI-driven search experiences. The email concludes with a cautious optimism regarding the new leadership under Nick Fox and Demis Hassabis, urging readers to watch how these changes might influence the quality of AI outputs and the overall direction of Google Search. This topic is thought-provoking as it delves into the complexities of corporate strategy, market dynamics, and the implications of technological advancements on established players like Google. Indig’s insights encourage readers to reflect on the future of search and the potential shifts in digital marketing strategies as AI continues to evolve. Key takeaways include the need for Google to innovate its advertising approach, the importance of maintaining a strong brand reputation, and the potential impact of AI on user engagement and search behavior.
Source: Growth Memo by Kevin Indig
Date: October 21st, 2024

Written by Marcus Tober