Show Notes:

Will Bachman and Dina David, the facilitator for the Umbrex and Veritux Mastermind groups, discuss the program's basics. Mastermind groups are peer-structured programs for middle-seven to nine people, ideally eight, over a 10-month period. The program kicks off in September and wraps up in June, 2026. Applications are due August 15, and for those not yet members, independent consultants should join the community to access the opportunity.

The Details on Mastermind Groups

Dina explains that meetings take place monthly and are one hour sessions. The sessions take place online.They typically start with an introduction, a quick update on goals, and a check-in on progress. The majority of the session is dedicated to a deep dive into a specified topic, sharing practical ideas, best practices, and lessons learned. The session ends with a closing check-out, focusing on what was learned and what the group plans to do in the next month based on the conversations that have taken place. Dina also discusses the different formats of the groups, such as breakout groups, warm seats, guest speakers, and show and tells.

Business Development and Online Presence

Dina shares an example of how the program works and helped improve LinkedIn profiles. She also discusses the importance of deep dives into a website. The discussion revolves around firm overview documents, business development, and pricing strategies. It highlights the importance of having clear deliverables and testimonies to ensure that clients can remember their work. Business development is another key topic discussed, with examples of specific topics such as the fishing line, which helps consultants understand who they serve and what problems they solve. The group also discusses strategies for implementing comprehensive business development processes, such as using CRM systems like HubSpot.

How to Improve Marketing Strategies

Dina also touches on strategies for marketing, such as warm and cold outreach, and how to get people to respond to LinkedIn messages or emails. The group emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, but learning from others' strategies can help consultants stay ahead in today's busy world. Sharing templates and examples has been helpful in addressing the overwhelming amount of information available online.

Approaches to Pricing

Price is another important topic discussed, with many groups discussing tier-based pricing approaches, such as Bronze, Silver, and Gold options, and how to word offerings. This approach brings consultants closer to the value brace and helps them learn best practices from each other. Strategies include pricing when working with startups or maintaining a retainer.

Handling Client Negotiations

However, the discussion also touches on handling client negotiations and managing scroll scope creep. Many consultants face challenges in handling changes at the leadership level, dealing with organizational changes, and managing relationships with clients. Internal operations, such as insurance and invoicing, are also discussed, with examples of how consultants can benefit from external support.

Scaling Up for Independent Firms

The discussion revolves around the journey of scaling up for independent firms, which can be challenging but rewarding. It is essential to build networks and connections, as well as understand when to hire and manage subcontractors. The group debrief helps in making informed decisions about hiring and managing subcontractors.

The Benefits of Joining a Mastermind Group

Dina the benefits of joining these groups which include new projects, client referrals, networking opportunities, and accountability. Members gain access to peer-based resources, which can help them hold themselves accountable and stay motivated. Members state that they have built genuine relationships, which can be invaluable for their businesses. In between monthly sessions, members receive a recording, summary recap, and additional resources. They are assigned an accountability buddy from their group, who they check in with within the month of the next live session. This allows them to discuss ideas, support each other, and work towards their goals.

Applications for the 2025 to 2026 cohort are due on August 15. If you are a member of Umbrex or Veritux, you will receive emails about the program and links to fill out the application. 

Timestamps:

00:02 Introduction and Overview of Mastermind Groups

01:23: Monthly Meeting Agenda 

02:54: Specific Topics and Examples 

09:00: Business Development and Pricing Strategies 

11:05: Internal Operations and Scaling Up 

13:31: Benefits and Accountability 

15:02: Between-Session Activities 

Unleashed is produced by Umbrex, which has a mission of connecting independent management consultants with one another, creating opportunities for members to meet, build relationships, and share lessons learned. Learn more at www.umbrex.com.