Summary

In this episode of the Pulse Podcast, Mark Pratt interviews Daisy Gorham, who shares her journey from a temp to a successful consultant in project delivery, particularly in high-stakes financial crime transformation programs. Daisy emphasises the importance of networking, honesty, and integrity in leadership. She discusses her transition into coaching, the significance of building relationships, and her aspirations for creating a community of coaches. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of personal development and the coaching business.

Takeaways

✨ Daisy's journey began with a hunger for adventure and exploration.
✨ Networking is key to overcoming challenges in project management.
✨ Honesty and integrity are essential for building trust in leadership.
✨ Creating psychological safety encourages open communication in teams.
✨ Coaching allows for deeper personal reflection and growth.
✨ Investing in relationships can lead to stronger networks.
✨ Transitioning from project delivery to coaching can be fulfilling.
✨ Community and connection are vital in the coaching industry.
✨ Planning and preparation are crucial for career transitions.

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Mark and the team!

In this episode of the Pulse Podcast, Alex Jordan shares his unique career journey from the Merchant Navy to the tech industry, highlighting key experiences and transitions, including his current role in a non-profit organisation. He discusses the importance of team building, effective recruitment strategies, and the differences between contracting and permanent employment. Alex emphasises the value of face-to-face interactions and building trust within teams, while also reflecting on the challenges and rewards of his diverse career. In this conversation, the speaker shares valuable insights on mastering the interview process, embracing servant leadership, navigating remote team dynamics, and the impact of AI on leadership. They emphasise the importance of preparation, communication, and personal connections in professional settings, while also reflecting on their career journey and the evolving landscape of technology.

Key Takeaways
✨ Alex Jordan transitioned from the Merchant Navy to tech.
✨ He has 30 years of experience in the tech industry.
✨ Team building is crucial for project success.
✨ Face-to-face interactions enhance recruitment processes.
✨ Contracting offers diverse experiences compared to permanent roles.
✨ Building trust is essential in team dynamics.
✨ His career includes significant projects in financial services.
✨ Alex believes in leaving a legacy, not dependency. Always have a list of questions for interviews.
✨ Face-to-face interactions enhance communication.
✨ Preparation is key to successful interviews.
✨ Servant leadership focuses on supporting team members.
✨Change is constant; be adaptable.
✨ Personal connections enhance team dynamics.

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Think you might benefit from the BEST and BIGGEST Contractor community? We know you will. 😎 You can join us here: https://bit.ly/4jC5e24 🔥

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Mark and the team!

"People buy from people."

In this episode of the Pulse Podcast, Tom Crawley shares his journey from being a contractor to becoming a successful business owner in the software development industry. He discusses the challenges he faced while transitioning to a scalable business model, the importance of marketing in B2B, and the lessons learned from selling his company, Marimosa. Tom also explores the future of software development, particularly the impact of AI and the shift towards consultancy roles.

Key Takeaways

✨ Tom's journey from contractor to business owner is inspiring.
✨ Building a business requires understanding client needs and market demands.
✨ Fixed price contracts can be challenging and require clear scope definition.
✨ Networking and personal connections are crucial in B2B marketing.
✨ Transparency with clients fosters trust and long-term relationships.
✨ Hiring the right team is essential for business growth.
✨ AI is changing the landscape of software development.
✨ Consultancy roles may become more prominent in the future.
✨ Understanding the human element in technology is vital.
✨ Always have a solid contract in place to protect your business.

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Think you might benefit from the BEST and BIGGEST Contractor community? We know you will. 😎 You can join us here: https://bit.ly/4jC5e24 🔥

Thanks for tuning into The Pulse Podcast. Remember, we're always looking for new voices and perspectives to enrich our discussions. Think you've got something to share? Fill out our guest application form here.

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Mark and the team!

"It’s not about the tech, the plan, or the process. It’s about whether the people using it feel heard. That’s what sticks—or slides off the wall." – Vicky Higham

In this episode of the Pulse podcast, Vicky Higham shares her unique journey into project management, highlighting her early influences from the building trade and her diverse career across various industries. She discusses the importance of user engagement in project success and the role of mentorship in personal growth and offers valuable advice for contractors navigating the job market. Vicky emphasises the need for a people-centric approach in change management, especially in an era increasingly influenced by technology and AI.

Key Takeaways

✨ Project management skills can stem from early life experiences.
✨ Engaging users from the start is crucial for project success.
✨ People, processes, and then technology should be the order of focus.
✨ Mentorship can significantly impact career development.
✨ User adoption is often overlooked in system implementations.
✨ AI should be viewed as a tool, not a replacement for human skills.
✨ Understanding different cultures enhances project management effectiveness.
✨ Contractors should leverage their networks for job opportunities.
✨ Flexibility in job roles can lead to better outcomes.
✨ Personal growth often comes from stepping outside of comfort zones.

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Think you might benefit from the BEST and BIGGEST Contractor community? We know you will. 😎 You can join us here: https://bit.ly/4jC5e24 🔥

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Mark and the team!

"I hated project management when I first started. Now, I can't imagine doing anything else. Funny how that works."

In this conversation, Stuart shares his journey into project management, discussing his transition from a computer science background to becoming a PMO. He emphasises the importance of PMOs in project success and how they can be perceived negatively. Stuart also talks about his branding as the 'Influential PMO' and his experiences in content creation, including his YouTube channel and courses. He highlights the significance of networking and sharing knowledge, and how these efforts can lead to career opportunities. Finally, he reflects on his future aspirations and the importance of focus in achieving goals.

Key Takeaways
✨ Stuart's journey into project management was accidental, stemming from a computer science degree.
✨ The best project managers are driven by a delivery focus, while PMOs thrive on helping others succeed.
✨ PMOs are often misunderstood as project police, but they can be influential in project success.
✨ Building a personal brand as the 'Influential PMO' helps in establishing credibility.
✨ Networking and sharing knowledge are crucial for career advancement.
✨ Monetising knowledge to make passion a side hustle.
✨ Focus is essential for productivity and achieving career goals.
✨ The job market rewards those who actively share their expertise and insights.

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Think you might benefit from the BEST and BIGGEST Contractor community? We know you will. 😎 You can join us here: https://bit.ly/4jC5e24 🔥

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Summary

In this conversation, the guests emphasise the importance of networking without an agenda, highlighting that genuine connections are built when there are no expectations of receiving something in return. The discussion also touches on the significance of maintaining relationships consistently, rather than only reaching out when in need, and the value of giving before receiving in professional networking.

Key Takeaways
✨ The best time to network is without agenda.
✨ People can sense when you have an agenda.
✨ Networking should be about building relationships, not just outreach.
✨ Keep your contacts updated and fresh, not just when you need them.
✨ Genuine relationships are built on giving before receiving.
✨ Networking is more effective when done without expectations.
✨ Regularly engage with your network to maintain relationships.
✨ Outreach can diminish the quality of relationships.
✨ A little black book of contacts should be kept active.
✨ Building trust is essential in networking.

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Think you might benefit from the BEST and BIGGEST Contractor community? We know you will. 😎 You can join us here: https://bit.ly/4jC5e24 🔥

Thanks for tuning into The Pulse Podcast. Remember, we're always looking for new voices and perspectives to enrich our discussions. Think you've got something to share? Fill out our guest application form here.

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Until next time,
Mark and the team!

“For me, pragmatism has to conquer everything. It's not about enforcing rules for the sake of it. A great PMO is tailored to set projects up for success—not to drown them in process.” - Sian Lewis

Summary

In this episode of the Pulse Podcast, Mark Pratt interviews Sian Lewis, a seasoned PMO delivery director, about her journey in project management. Sian shares her experiences from her early career at Barclays Bank to her current role, emphasizing the evolution of PMO practices and the importance of adaptability in managing large-scale projects. The conversation also delves into the definition of a quality PMO, the significance of mentorship, and the transferable skills within project management across various industries. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of continuous learning and adapting to new technologies, particularly AI, in the field of project management. They explore the transition from traditional employment to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the need to identify market opportunities and target audiences. The discussion also highlights the significance of mentorship, authenticity in professional life, and adapting to remote work dynamics. The speakers share insights on marketing strategies for new ventures and the satisfaction derived from helping others grow in their careers.

Key Takeaways

✨ Sian's journey into project management was accidental but rewarding.
✨ Common sense is crucial in project management, yet often overlooked.
✨ Mentorship plays a vital role in professional growth.
✨ Understanding the basics is essential for project success.
✨ Learning from failures is key to personal development.
✨ The financial services industry has embraced project management practices.
✨ AI can enhance productivity but should not replace critical thinking.
✨ Entrepreneurship offers flexibility but comes with its own challenges.
✨ Identifying market needs is crucial for business success.
✨ Effective marketing strategies are key to reaching potential customers.
✨ Authenticity in professional relationships fosters trust and collaboration.

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Think you might benefit from the BEST and BIGGEST Contractor community? We know you will. 😎 You can join us here: https://bit.ly/4jC5e24 🔥

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Mark and the team!

"Invest an hour a day into yourself."

In this episode of the Pulse Podcast, Simon shares his journey from engineering to recruitment, emphasising the importance of candidate experience and the role of recruiters in shaping career paths. He discusses the intricacies of the recruitment process, the significance of ATS in filtering applications, and offers valuable insights on crafting ATS-compliant CVs. Simon also addresses common misconceptions about CV writing and provides practical tips for job seekers to enhance their chances of success in the competitive job market. In this conversation, Simon discusses the evolving landscape of recruitment, emphasising the importance of AI and technology in the hiring process. He highlights the necessity for candidates to customise their CVs to align with job descriptions and the critical role of pre-screening conversations in securing interviews. Simon also shares insights on the future of recruitment, where AI will play a significant role, and encourages individuals to invest in their personal development to stay competitive in the job market.

Key Takeaways

✨ Simon John transitioned from engineering to recruitment to help people.
✨ Recruitment is crucial in shaping a candidate's career journey.
✨ Positive candidate experiences lead to better retention rates.
✨ A typical day for a recruiter involves extensive communication with applicants.
✨ Understanding different engagement types is essential for job seekers.
✨ ATS acts as a digital gatekeeper for job applications.
✨ CVs must be ATS-compliant to reach human recruiters.
✨ Simplicity in CV design is key to passing ATS filters.
✨ The pre-screening conversation is key to advancing in the hiring process.
✨ AI will enhance, not replace, human roles in recruitment.
✨ Investing in personal development is vital for career growth.
✨ AI can streamline the recruitment process and improve efficiency.

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Think you might benefit from the BEST and BIGGEST Contractor community? We know you will. 😎 You can join us here: https://bit.ly/4jC5e24 🔥

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Mark and the team!

"Silos fragment everything—it's like breaking a piece of glass over and over again."

In this episode of the Pulse podcast, Christina shares her unique journey into project management, starting from her university days to her current role. She discusses the importance of communication, the balance between theory and practice in project management, and the value of mentorship. Christina emphasises the need for project managers to adapt to client methodologies and the significance of marketing oneself as a contractor. She also highlights the importance of keeping track of achievements and the power of networking through platforms like LinkedIn. In this conversation, Mark Pratt discusses the importance of asking for help, building a personal brand, and understanding the strategic elements of project management. He emphasises the need for clarity in objectives and the dangers of organisational silos. Mark also shares his passion for project management, the joy of overcoming challenges, and the role of AI in enhancing productivity and decision-making.

Key Takeaways

✨ Effective communication is crucial in project management.
✨ Theoretical knowledge must be balanced with practical experience.
✨ Certifications help understand different project delivery styles.
✨ Client methodologies can vary greatly between organisations.
✨ Mentorship plays a vital role in professional development.
✨ Contractors should quantify their value in the job market.
✨ Reaching out to others can provide valuable insights and support. Being asked for help is irresistible and fosters connection.
✨ Humility in asking for help is crucial in professional settings.
✨Building a personal brand is essential for career growth.
✨ Strategy should be the focus in project management, not just execution.
✨ Understanding the 'why' behind projects is key to success.
✨ Silos in organisations hinder collaboration and effectiveness.
✨ Finding joy in the pressure of project management can lead to satisfaction.
✨ AI should be seen as a tool to enhance productivity, not a replacement.
✨Focusing on outcomes rather than outputs is vital for organisational success.


Discover your WHY with our ✨FREE✨ Mindset Course!! 🔥👇
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Think you might benefit from the BEST and BIGGEST Contractor community? We know you will. 😎 You can join us here: https://bit.ly/4jC5e24 🔥

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Mark and the team!

Summary

In this episode of the Pulse podcast, host Mark Pratt interviews Craig Kent, a CRM expert and freelance consultant. Craig shares his journey from scepticism about contractors to becoming a CRM guru, emphasising the importance of strategy over technology in customer relationship management. He discusses the audit process he uses with clients to identify areas for improvement and the ideal client relationship he aims to build. The conversation also touches on the challenges freelancers face in marketing themselves and navigating the changing landscape of contracting. 
In this conversation, Mark Pratt discusses the nuances of self-employment, the distinction between contractors and freelancers, the significance of personal branding, and the challenges faced in the freelance market. He emphasises the importance of networking and shares insights on how to position oneself effectively in the market. 

The discussion also touches on the outlook for 2025, highlighting the need for a positive mindset and adaptability in the face of challenges.

Key Takeaways
✨Craig's journey into CRM began with scepticism about contractors.
✨The audit process is crucial for understanding client needs.
✨Building a strong client relationship is key to success.
✨Freelancers must market themselves effectively to find work.
✨Craig's unique offering is centred around his audit process.
✨Flexibility in pricing can differentiate freelancers in the market.
✨You're not self-employed because the government tells you that.
✨You can't just do all of this stuff in your sleep or at weekends.
✨The outlook is better going into this year than last year.
✨You don't want to overcharge because you'll have no chance.

For more information on IR35, Mark suggests visiting Kingsbridge Insurance: https://www.kingsbridge.co.uk/products/legal-ir35-protect-cover/  

Visit The CRM Guru to learn more: https://www.thecrmguru.co.uk/about-us

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Think you might benefit from the BEST and BIGGEST Contractor community? We know you will. 😎 You can join us here: https://bit.ly/4jC5e24 🔥

Thanks for tuning into The Pulse Podcast. Remember, we're always looking for new voices and perspectives to enrich our discussions. Think you've got something to share? Fill out our guest application form here.

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Until next time,
Mark and the team!