Many consultants want to be known for their highly personalized service and are deeply committed to meeting each client where they are when they walk through the door. My boutique practice absolutely reflects this philosophy of client service. However, without an internal system of process steps and “must-have” deliverables, my clients’ college search process would not have a consistent brand experience, and I would be vulnerable to missing a key advising step.
Systems Don’t Mean Cookie-Cutter
When I mentor newer consultants, I stress the importance of a milestone (or curriculum/service outline) plan. I often get push back: “I can’t do the exact same thing with each client; they are all so different.” Of course, your clients are each unique, but I am fairly certain that all of your clients will share certain foundational needs relative to the college process. A milestone plan will help you to meet these needs, even if some clients follow your plan in a different order or timeline.
I have a very systemized approach in my practice, and yet my team prides ourselves on our “individualized approach”. I believe you can have both. At the end of the day though, this comes down to personal discipline and being willing to commit to a system.
Milestones Instead of Timelines
Educational consulting is can be very calendar-driven. Most students apply by set deadlines in the fall and winter of their senior year; they take admissions test in the 18 months prior to these deadlines, and they whole admissions process builds towards these deadlines. However, not all students can, or should be, on exactly the same schedule for a variety of developmental and personal reasons.
By presenting your process as a set of milestone, objectives, or “flows” you will be able to stay organized internally while presenting flexibility for your clients’ needs. It’s also helpful to remember that when families approach an IEC for guidance there is an expectation for a plan and organization - don’t be afraid to present one!