December 08, 2024

285: 3 Keys to Build Your Project Management Career with Candice Benson

43 minutes

Welcome to the PMO Strategies Podcast + Blog, where PMO leaders become IMPACT Drivers!

PMI Talent Triangle: Business Acumen

How Freelance Project Managers Can Overcome the Feast and Famine Cycle

As a freelance project manager or contractor, maintaining a steady stream of work can feel like a constant challenge. The feast and famine cycle—where you’re either overloaded with projects or scrambling to find work—is a common issue many freelancers face. In episode 285 of the PMO Strategies Podcast, Candice Benson, CEO of Benson Consulting Inc., shares strategies to break this cycle.

With over 25 years of experience in project management, change management, and process improvement, Candice offers practical tools to help freelance PMs and contractors maintain consistent project pipelines and build a sustainable business.

The Three Critical Tools for Success

🔎 Visibility

Candice emphasizes the importance of making yourself visible in the marketplace. A capability statement—similar to a resume but focused on your freelance work—is a great way to showcase your expertise and projects. It highlights your successes and gives potential clients a clear picture of what you bring to the table.

Regular updates on platforms like LinkedIn can also increase visibility. Share project wins, client testimonials, or lessons learned to keep your name at the forefront of potential clients’ minds.

📊 Sales Process & Framework

Many freelance PMs struggle with the sales aspect of their business. Candice advises having a defined process for managing leads, nurturing relationships, and following up with potential clients. A clear sales framework helps you stay organized and ensures that you don’t miss out on opportunities.

Proactively setting boundaries for your sales process also ensures you’re working with clients who respect your time and expertise.

💡 Community & Continuous Learning

Freelancers often feel isolated, but Candice stresses the importance of community. Engaging with a network of fellow PMs and contractors provides opportunities to learn, collaborate, and share resources. Building relationships within the project management community also opens doors to potential partnerships and projects, helping to maintain a steady workflow.

🎯 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Candice also discusses a common challenge for freelancers: imposter syndrome. As a freelancer, it’s easy to doubt your value when you’re competing for work. Candice advises leaning into your strengths and leveraging the experiences you gained in full-time roles. By showcasing your expertise and reminding yourself of past successes, you can overcome self-doubt and build confidence.

Key Takeaways

🔎 Increase Your Visibility: Use a capability statement and social platforms like LinkedIn to stay visible and top-of-mind with potential clients.

📈 Build a Sales Framework: Establish a structured process for prospecting, client engagement, and follow-up to close more deals.

🤝 Leverage Community: Engage with your PM network to collaborate, learn, and avoid isolation.

🎧 Press play above to listen to the full episode and learn how to build a thriving freelance PM business.

Connect with Candice Benson

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P.S. Did you know that we have students all over the world using the IMPACT Engine System in their consulting practice to deliver high-IMPACT results for their clients? Learn this game changing system inside The IMPACT Engine book today.

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Laura Barnard

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