In this episode of "Never in Reverse Podcast," host Jeremy Axel interviews business consultant Adi Klevit about the realities of consulting, process documentation, and business scalability.
Adi shares insights on why consulting engagements fail, the importance of aligning values, and how effective documentation drives measurable results. They discuss overcoming resistance, building trust, and integrating AI to streamline operations. Eddie emphasizes collaboration, clear ROI, and sustaining improvements through structured processes.
The conversation provides practical advice for leaders and consultants, highlighting how clarity, commitment, and effective systems can transform businesses and enable sustainable growth.
For detailed show notes, navigate using the timestamps below:
(00:00:00) Why People Fail with Consulting
Opening question about common reasons consulting engagements fail.
(00:00:02) Importance of Fit and Commitment
Discussing the need for alignment in values, methodology, and being fully committed to consulting.
(00:00:45) Introduction Host Jeremy Axel introduces the podcast
(00:01:18) Why Listen to This Episode
Adi Klevit explains the main takeaway: process documentation is not as hard or unnecessary as people think.
(00:01:58) Adi’s Career and Company Origins
Eddie describes her background and why she started her consulting company.
(00:02:24) Rethinking Consulting for Modern Business
Discussion on the evolution from traditional consulting to transformation and value-driven results.
(00:03:57) Delivering Tangible Results and ROI
Adi Klevit explains her approach, which involves providing playbooks and process maps and focusing on measurable ROI.
(00:06:07) Overcoming Pushback on Soft Costs
Addressing resistance from stakeholders regarding hidden or soft costs in process improvement.
(00:07:07) Getting Buy-In and Defining Success
Importance of consulting with all stakeholders to define ROI and ensure buy-in.
(00:07:30) Collaboration vs. Surface-Level Advice
Distinguishing effective consulting from superficial advice; emphasizing partnership and collaboration.
(00:08:06) Defining the Consulting Partnership
Adi Klevit's approach: co-defining goals, ensuring mutual participation, and the necessity of client engagement.
(00:09:17) Collaboration vs. Correction
Why collaboration is essential for change management and process adoption.
(00:09:54) The Importance of “Why” in Process Documentation
Starting every engagement by clarifying the client’s motivation for documenting processes.
(00:11:24) Building Trust and Empathy
The a need for trust, empathy, and careful communication when consulting with business owners.
(00:12:11) Scalability and Implementation
How Adi Klevit approaches scaling systems and processes after initial buy-in and roadmap creation.
(00:12:52) Maintaining and Updating Processes
The importance of ongoing maintenance, process champions, and keeping documentation current.
(00:13:33) Overcoming Legacy Thinking and Burnout
Challenges of changing long-standing habits and addressing employee burnout due to poor processes.
(00:15:28) Celebrating Client Success Stories
Adi Klevit shares the satisfaction of seeing clients succeed after implementing new systems.
(00:16:06) Consulting as Leadership and Growth
How effective consulting empowers leadership and enables business growth.
(00:18:17) Returning Clients and Ongoing Relationships
Adi Klevit discusses the frequency of repeat business and long-term client relationships.
(00:18:22) Balancing Strategy and Execution
How Adi Klevit balances strategic planning with hands-on execution in diverse teams.
(00:19:25) Keys to Successful Consulting Engagements
Advice for clients: alignment, commitment, open communication, and defining expectations.
(00:20:28) The Role of AI in Consulting
Discussion on how AI is transforming consulting, increasing efficiency, and freeing up time for deeper work.
(00:24:44) AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement
Encouragement to embrace AI as a productivity tool, not something to fear.
(00:25:38) Building Relationships in the AI Era
AI frees up time for more meaningful human connections and networking.
(00:26:30) Advice for Young Consultants
Eddie’s tips: find your niche, get results, collect testimonials, and build credibility.
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