Lisa Hufford, Founder, and CEO of the talent solutions company Simplicity Consulting, joins the show today. She and I chat about her interesting story and perspective on how she has grown her company, her book Navigating the Talent Shift, making the transition from corporate to consulting, what qualities and characteristics make a great consultant, and what she sees the most successful managers doing.

Key Takeaways:

[5:27] Even if you don't see others doing what you want to do, challenge yourself and go after what it is you are seeking. While at Microsoft, Lisa took her position from directing a large sales team to a consultant with contract work. She paved her own path based on using her valuable skills in sales and strategic project management.

[12:08] In consulting, you get to choose who you work with. However, it takes courage, self-discipline, and clarity on your values.

[15:46] When going from a corporate role to consulting, one of the biggest challenges can be the transition of generating the business and managing the administrative side while still growing and taking on new clients.

[21:02] Companies must tap into the right talent pool now, more than ever, with the expanding gig economy providing more options and opportunities for employees.

[23:55] Lisa sees the most successful managers thinking about their Teams and being aware of the opportunity cost of hiring full-time employees.

[31:12] Lisa and her team at Simplicity Consulting work with their clients within the cultural norms and structure communication in a way that works efficiently within their specific company.

[33:51] When transitioning to a consultant role, it is important to set yourself up for success and work first on what you know and where you feel comfortable.

[35:43] Oftentimes roles need to get filled ASAP, and Simplicity Consulting can help provide an On Demand team that provides SPEED (Success, Plan, Execute, Evaluate, Decide).

[40:49] Simplicity Consulting focuses mainly on Marketing, Communications, and Project Management.

[45:23] Seek out brands that align with your values and make you excited to be part of the team.

Resources:

Purchase Bring Your Whole Self to Work and gain access to bonus material

Mike Robbins Website

Mike Robbins Podcast

Mike Robbins on Facebook

Mike Robbins on Twitter

Mike Robbins on Instagram

TED Radio Hour

Navigating the Talent Shift: How to Build On-Demand Teams that Drive Innovation, Control Costs, and Get Results, by Lisa Hufford

Simplicity Consulting

Be You: Five Steps To Living Your Personal Brand, by Lisa Hufford