If you are thinking about hiring a business strategist, you probably want to know what actually happens. This is what working with a business strategy consultant looks like when you work with me, step by step.
It starts with a free 30-minute call. We discuss your situation and whether the work fits. There is no obligation.
The process at a glance
| Step | What happens | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Discovery | We meet, online or in person, and talk about your business, your goals and what stands in the way. | A shared understanding of your situation. |
| 2. Analysis | I analyze the business, find the real constraint and its causes, and build a high-level roadmap. We then meet to go through it. | Written findings and a prioritized roadmap. |
| 3. Strategy development | We develop the strategy together, in up to four meetings. | A written strategy, a one-page summary, points to monitor, and a sequence of next steps. |
| After the strategy | You act on it yourself, or we keep working together through optional advisory support. | Support while you carry out the plan. |
Step 1: Discovery
We sit down for a discussion, in person or online. We talk about your current business situation, your goals, what you want to achieve, and what you believe is standing in the way.
This is how I get to know your context and circumstances. It is the fuel for step 2.
Step 2: Analysis
Using what you shared in our first meeting, I analyze the business. I look for the real constraint that is holding you back from your goals, and what is causing it. I then map the gap between where you are and where you want to be, and build a high-level roadmap of the steps needed to solve the constraint.
If something was not covered and I need more information, we may have another short conversation. This analysis usually takes 3 to 5 working days, and I give you an expected date after the first session.
Then we meet again. I share my findings and the roadmap, and you can ask any questions you have. Steps 1 and 2 together make up the Business Assessment.
Step 3: Strategy development
We use the assessment as our guide. We keep what is working well in the business. Where an area needs attention, we decide on new choices together.
The written strategy records the choices, the reasoning behind them, the trade-offs, what it takes to pursue the strategy, and the uncertainties that remain. This step takes up to four meetings.
By the end, you have a developed strategy and a high-level sequence of next steps: what to do first, what follows, and what depends on what. Execution can start right away.
After the strategy: taking action
From here, the main task is to act. You can do it yourself, or we can keep working together. I offer optional advisory support: two meetings a month to review progress, work through obstacles, and reconsider choices where needed.
Implementation delivery and project management are not part of the work. The strategy gives you and anyone helping you a clear direction to follow.
Strategy is a living process
A strategy is not a document you write once and never touch again. You are dealing with uncertainties, so you keep watching for signals and adjust when you need to. That is why the written strategy includes points to monitor and a note on when to reconsider.
What I need from you
You do not need a strategy background. I explain the key concepts as we go. You bring your knowledge of the business, and you make the choices. I bring structure, know-how and recommendations.
What does it cost?
The Business Assessment (steps 1 and 2) starts from €570 + VAT and is credited toward the full engagement. The full engagement (all three steps) starts from €2,300 + VAT, including the assessment. Optional advisory support is €600 a month + VAT. You can read the details in how much a business strategy consultant costs.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the whole process take?
It depends on how the work progresses. The full engagement includes up to six sessions, each lasting up to 90 minutes. We arrange them around your availability.
Do I need to prepare before the first meeting?
Before we begin, I tell you what information will help. You do not need to know what the problem is. The assessment looks at your business as a whole to find the main challenge.
Can we work online?
Yes. Sessions are online by default. In-person meetings are available in the Greater Lisbon area, or elsewhere if travel costs are covered. See business strategy consulting in Lisbon and online worldwide.
Next step
Interested? Book a free 30-minute conversation about your situation and whether this engagement fits. There is no obligation to proceed. Book your free 30-minute call. You can also see how I work with business owners.
