Best Helene Laffitte Consulting Quest Podcasts (2024)

1
How to prepare for negotiating a consulting agreement? 36:17

22h ago36:17

36:17

In this exciting new episode, we’re launching a fresh segment that’s sure to become a staple in your listening routine—a live monthly Q&A session. Each month, we’ll tackle a hot topic and answer the questions that matter most to you. This week, we’re kicking things off with a deep dive into a subject that every consultant or procurement professiona…

1
Maximising Consulting Cost Efficiency: The Interplay Between Scoping and Pricing Levers 20:59

3M ago20:59

20:59

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, the role of consulting services has never been more pivotal. For Strategy, Finance, and Procurement Executives, understanding the nuanced overlap between these domains is essential. It is this very overlap that can spell the difference between a consulting project that delivers transformative value and on…

1
Optimising Your Consulting Costs: Leveraging Pricing Levers for Maximum Value 17:44

3M ago17:44

17:44

When it comes to navigating the intricate world of consulting, the traditional mindset of price-slashing and hard-nosed bargaining often falls flat. Consulting isn't just another commodity; it demands a sophisticated approach where value and cost optimization go hand in hand. In this episode of Smar Consulting Sourcing podcast, your host Helene off…

1
The Scoping Lever and Its Significance in Optimizing Consulting Costs 18:47

4M ago18:47

18:47

We will delve into a crucial aspect that every business executive, whether you’re in procurement, strategy, finance, or sitting in the C-suite, needs to master: the art of scoping your consulting projects. Proper scoping isn't just about controlling costs—it’s about maximizing the value each consulting engagement brings to your organization. Scopin…

1
An Overview of Consulting Quest's Framework for Optimizing Consulting Costs 17:44

4M ago17:44

17:44

Optimizing consulting costs is the top priority for companies investing in consulting services. However, at Consulting Quest, we don't merely focus on cost-cutting; we prioritize obtaining the best value for your investment. We have developed a comprehensive framework that considers both scoping and pricing levers to ensure that every dollar you in…

1
The Role of Demand Management in Optimizing Consulting Spend 18:47

5M ago18:47

18:47

Welcome to another episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, where your favourite host, Helene, delves into the nitty-gritty of consulting sourcing, and today she's tackling a critical aspect, demand management. Think of demand management as your trusted decision-making partner. It's there to ensure you're putting your resources where they …

1
5 Ways Consulting Cost Savings Can Impact Organizations 18:52

5M ago18:52

18:52

Consulting isn’t just a line-item expense; it’s a strategic investment poised to propel organizations toward unprecedented growth and efficiency. By balancing cost considerations with strategic alignment and reinvesting savings wisely, we can unlock the transformative power of consulting and chart a course toward enduring success. In this episode o…

1
Saving Money on Consulting Services 21:22

5M ago21:22

21:22

In the realm of business strategy, the significance of cost savings cannot be overstated. Today, we kick off 'Decoding Cost Savings in Consulting,' a series that will shed light on this important topic. We aim to make understanding savings in consulting simple yet essential for success. Effective consulting procurement isn’t just about cutting cost…

1
Inside the Costs of a Consulting Firm 20:37

5M ago20:37

20:37

In this episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your host, Helene, dives into a topic that's essential but often misunderstood in the world of consulting: the cost of revenue. Think of it like the Cost of Goods Sold in other industries, but instead of physical products, we're talking about the brainpower, time, and expertise of consultant…

1
Value-Based Pricing in Consulting 20:49

6M ago20:49

20:49

When embarking on a new project, finding the right fee structure can significantly enhance your company's value. The optimal approach depends on factors such as the project's essence, the nature of deliverables, the surrounding context, and your flexibility with fees, along with the level of commitment you seek from your consulting partner. Value-s…

1
Decoding Consulting Prices: What Influences the Numbers? 17:46

6M ago17:46

17:46

You might think that figuring out how much a consulting project will cost is as simple as picking a price tag off a shelf. But in reality, it's much more complicated than that. Even when fee structures are clearly laid out, two projects that seem identical on paper can end up with very different cost estimates. Why does this happen? Well, there are…

1
Fundamentals of Consulting Pricing - The Rates 16:13

6M ago16:13

16:13

In the world of business, consulting services play a pivotal role in shaping strategies, driving innovation, and solving complex problems. However, the question of how to negotiate win-win deal with consultants while ensuring value remains a constant challenge for clients. In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your favorite host Hel…

1
How to Effectively Overcome Asymmetrical Information in Consulting? 19:59

7M ago19:59

19:59

Stepping into the consulting market can feel like navigating a labyrinth. With a myriad of firms boasting various services, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But fear not, dear listeners, for in today's episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, we're diving headfirst into the depths of asymmetrical information and emerging victorious. Picture this…

1
Navigating Asymmetrical Information in Consulting Procurement 16:32

7M ago16:32

16:32

Asymmetrical information isn't just an abstract concept relegated to economics textbooks; it's a pivotal notion that shapes real-world market dynamics. Join your trusted host, Helene, on the latest episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, where we delve deep into the application of this theory in the realm of consulting procurement. Discov…

1
Value and Impact: The Ultimate Yardsticks for Success in Consulting Projects 19:55

7M ago19:55

19:55

In the fast-paced world of business, organizations often turn to consulting services to navigate complex challenges, drive innovation, and achieve strategic goals. Yet, amidst the myriad of consultants and projects, how can businesses ensure they are truly maximizing the value of these engagements? Navigating the complexity of evaluating consulting…

1
Intangible Facets - Trust, Fit and Personal Connection in Consulting Services 21:32

8M ago21:32

21:32

Trusting the consultants involved in your projects can transform the entire consulting experience, making it smoother, more collaborative, and ultimately ensuring the effective application of recommendations. But why does trust wield such immense power in consulting? Join your favorite host, Helene, on the Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast, as she …

1
Navigating the Dynamics of Direct and Indirect Procurement with a Spotlight on Consulting 18:46

8M ago18:46

18:46

Businesses are waking up to the fact that a top-notch indirect procurement game can be a differentiator for success. It's not just a cost center anymore; it's a strategic player in the company's victory. But let's ditch the old-school thinking of direct versus indirect procurement. It's time to see it as a choice between strategic and non-strategic…

1
Direct vs. Indirect Procurement: Understanding the Nuances 16:28

8M ago16:28

16:28

When you cook up a storm in the kitchen, everyone wants to know about the ingredients, right? But there's more to the culinary magic than just spices – it's the hidden elements that play a crucial role. Think of the pots and pans, the table decoration -- all of them quietly contribute to the whole gastronomic experience and hey, don't forget that c…

1
Navigating the Evolution of the Consulting Value Chain 16:53

8M ago16:53

16:53

Welcome back to another captivating episode of your favorite Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, where your host Helene leads you through the dynamic realm of consulting, meticulously unraveling the ever-evolving Consulting Value Chain. Delve into how consulting firms are adjusting to these transformations and discern the implications for you, the c…

1
Is Consulting being Disrupted? Navigating New Paradigms 16:53

8M ago16:53

16:53

In our latest podcast episode, Helene is diving into a topic that's been buzzing around the consulting world for quite some time – the much-talked-about disruption in the consulting industry, especially with the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Trust me, this is a conversation you don't want to miss! We've been hearing predictions about the …

1
Navigating the Consulting Landscape: Today’s Market Insights 17:39

9M ago17:39

17:39

Numbers tell a compelling tale of a vast market, estimated at $300 billion, showcasing resilience with a Compound Annual Growth Rate poised to surpass $400 billion by 2025. Welcome to the big, vast consulting universe! What fuels this growth? The digital revolution, emerging markets, and global events like the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical con…

1
The Evolution of Consulting 17:11

10M ago17:11

17:11

Hey there, podcast listeners! Welcome to another episode where we're diving deep into the evolutionary journey of the consulting industry. You might be wondering, why bother with the history of consulting? Well, in a world where consultants seem to be around every corner, influencing businesses left and right, knowing where this all began not only …

1
7 HighLevel Consulting Capabilities Part II 16:11

10M ago16:11

16:11

In the previous episode, we delved into the intricacies of four essential business capabilities: Strategy, Operations, Finance & Risk, and Sales & Marketing. These pillars are fundamental in steering organizations toward success. In today's episode, we explored the key pillars of modern business: Human Capital, Tech, and R&D. Picture a workplace no…

1
7 High Level Consulting Capabilities 21:01

10M ago21:01

21:01

In this episode, Helene has embarked on a journey through the intricate world of consulting capabilities. From the strategic North Star to the heart of business operations, and from finance & risk as the guardians of integrity to sales and marketing as the company's rockstar, she has explored how consulting brings the wind to your business sails. I…

1
What is Consulting? 18:47

11M ago18:47

18:47

In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of consulting and asking the age-old question, "What is consulting?" "What really defines it?" In a nutshell, consulting is like a blend of expert advice, strategic planning, and meticulous execution – all in the name of supercharging an organization's success. As the world of consulting keeps on ev…

1
Significance of Value in Consulting Procurement 17:39

11M ago17:39

17:39

Hey there, and welcome back to the grand finale of our podcast series, "How to Buy Consulting Services Like a Pro. "Over the past few episodes, we've delved into the intricate world of consulting procurement, exploring the nooks and crannies of this ever-evolving landscape. But today, we're here to talk about the real heart of the matter - the valu…

1
Mastering Project Termination: Strategies for Leaders 18:54

11M ago18:54

18:54

In the world of consulting, we often talk about how to start a project, manage it, and keep it on the right track. But what about when things don't go as planned? That's where our latest episode of "How to Buy Consulting Like a Pro” steps in, ready to reveal how to masterfully wrap up a consulting project with style and grace. In this episode, your…

1
Navigating the Consultants’ Departure with Procurement Expertise 21:31

12M ago21:31

21:31

As we approach the final phase of our journey on how to "Buy consulting services like a pro," today, we will delve into the critical topic of preparing for the transition when the consultants depart. Let us tell you that this is one of the most crucial steps in securing the impact of your project. You might wonder why. Well, projects are inherently…

1
Transforming the Procurement Landscape With Spend Management Innovations 33:30

12M ago33:30

33:30

Guess what? Our Procurement Game Changers podcast has unveiled a fascinating secret—none of our guests willingly chose to enter this field. For each of them, it was either a stroke of luck or an unexpected twist of fate that led them here. In today's episode, our esteemed guest, Thejo Kote, shed light on the underlying reason: "In business school, …

1
Elevating Project Performance: Mastering Daily Operations 17:41

12M ago17:41

17:41

We're now entering the final stage of our journey on how to "Buy consulting services like a pro." Today, we'll delve into managing project performance and daily operations. Picture this: You're the captain of a consulting project ship, and your consultants are your crew of superheroes. You've got the right team, you've set sail, but now what? That'…

1
Maximizing ROI with Expert Project Management in Consulting 17:52

12M ago17:52

17:52

Effective project management is imperative for the success of your consulting project. Therefore, as a client, it's crucial to understand the intricacies involved in managing consulting projects. When you buy a car, you simply place an order and wait for the finished product to be delivered. There's no need to inspect the production line or be invo…

1
Understanding terms and conditions in a consulting agreement 17:25

1y ago17:25

17:25

In the dynamic consulting world, success begins with the artful creation of a consulting agreement. But you know what? Crafting the perfect consulting agreement isn't just about paperwork; it's a masterstroke of strategy, protection, and securing your path to triumph. In the realm of consulting, where every decision carries weight, this foundationa…

1
Crafting a Powerful SOW for your Consulting Agreement 16:24

1y ago16:24

16:24

Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast. Over previous episodes, we've shared multiple aspects of procuring consulting services, from crafting the perfect RFP to evaluating proposals and negotiating with shortlisted firms. In today's episode, we reach the climax where visions become reality—the consulting agreement. …

1
The Procurement Leader’s toolbox: Mastering Essential Skills and Tools 17:52

1y ago17:52

17:52

The digital procurement trend is gradually replacing traditional practices, and it's not just a trend; it's a reality. What essential skills and tools do procurement leaders need in this digital age? They need to be familiar with the end-to-end "procure-to-pay" process. This involves understanding the company's external needs, market dynamics, find…

1
Expert tips on providing feedback to unsuccessful firms 16:24

1y ago16:24

16:24

Providing feedback to consultants whose proposals fell short is a wise practice. It's a win-win for both parties. Why? Well, reputable consulting firms with the expertise you seek take feedback seriously. When you share your insights, they use that valuable input to address previous shortcomings, increasing their chances of success in future bids. …

1
Mastering the Art of Negotiation in Consulting Services 17:17

1y ago17:17

17:17

Welcome back to another power-packed episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, your ultimate guide to mastering the art of buying consulting services like a pro. Today, we delve into the realm of negotiation—a force of great power and potential. As Sun Tzu famously said, "Every battle is won before it's ever fought." In our previous episode, we laid th…

1
How to prepare for negotiating your consulting agreement? 17:52

1y ago17:52

17:52

Negotiation is like a thrilling dance of give-and-take. The process entails strategies for securing the best deal. If the consulting agreement is your vital weapon to ensure that you get the expected value from the project, an effective negotiation process is your key to reaching the winning agreement. Now here's the catch - you should not dive int…

1
Stress & Burnout in Women in Procurement 37:43

1y ago37:43

37:43

Burnout, like a global epidemic, casts its dark shadow over both genders. However, its grip on women is particularly tight, leaving them more vulnerable to its detrimental effects. It's as if women find it challenging to hit the "off" switch, constantly grappling with concerns about the impact on their career progression. Startlingly, only 45% of w…

1
Deciphering commercials in Consulting Proposals 17:19

1y ago17:19

17:19

In our "How to Buy Consulting Like a Pro" series, we've dived into the nitty-gritty of evaluating consulting proposals. But now, friends, we've hit the mother of all crossroads: the price. If evaluating proposals is a brain-teasing puzzle, then pricing is the trickiest piece to figure out. Remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best one. In…

1
Pitching Session to Wrap up Your Consulting Proposal Assessment 17:19

1y ago17:19

17:19

The quest to find the perfect consulting partner may be a long one, but it does not necessarily have to be a complicated journey. All you need to do is apply the proper techniques to navigate this process confidently and we aim to be your guide, offering pro tips and guidance every step of the way. We started discussing how to write a winning RFP a…

1
Generative AI in Procurement 28:08

1y ago28:08

28:08

There is no denying the fact that Generative AI is about to disrupt the professional services landscape like never before. It's like a storm of innovation brewing on the horizon, ready to revolutionize procurement as we know it. And guess what? We can't afford to be left in the dust! We need to be the pioneers, the ones who ride this wave of change…

1
Consulting Proposal Analysis Masterclass: Grading Proposals 18:26

1y ago18:26

18:26

We embarked on the journey of consulting proposal analysis three weeks ago. Our mission is to unravel the mysteries of effective proposal analysis and shortlist consulting firms' crème de la crème proposals. After laying the groundwork for success by covering topics such as building the right team, evaluating deliverables, and assessing approaches,…

1
Consulting Proposal Analysis Masterclass: Strategies to Shortlist the Best! 15:38

1+ y ago15:38

15:38

Want to find that one proposal that stands out with its comprehensive understanding of objectives, tailored solutions, and clear deliverables? Join host Helene in the latest episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing as she explores the crucial step of analyzing proposals in consulting procurement. Learn how to identify the most promising proposals and m…

1
Consulting Proposal Analysis Masterclass: The Pre-requisites! 17:23

1+ y ago17:23

17:23

Hello there, aficionados of all things consulting procurement! If you've been tuning in to our exciting series, "Buying Consulting Services Like a Pro," hosted by the one and only Helene, get ready for a thrilling ride. We've already spilled the beans on crafting that killer RFP to find your perfect consultant match. And now, your killer RFP has br…

1
Keys to Successful Consulting Buying: Briefing and Q&A Sessions 16:44

1+ y ago16:44

16:44

Crafting proposals is rarely a consultant's idea of a good time. It gets even more challenging when clients fail to convey their expectations through RFPs, leaving consultants to make assumptions. This wastes time, effort, (and money) for consultants and hinders the alignment between the client’s goals and the potential consulting partners' skills,…

1
Harnessing the Magic of Reference Checks! 16:36

1+ y ago16:36

16:36

If you are on your grand quest to find the perfect consulting firm, we have a vital tool up our sleeves to help refine that list of potential candidates: reference checks! Picture it as your magical crystal ball revealing the hidden truths about these consulting wizards. In this episode of your favorite podcast series, "How to Buy Consulting Like a…

1
Find the Right Consulting Firm: Unleash your Inner Procurement Pro! 15:01

1+ y ago15:01

15:01

The quest for the perfect consulting firm is filled with twists, turns, and the occasional dragon to slay. We've all been there, desperately seeking that elusive partner with the ideal "Consulting DNA" to bring our projects to life. It can sometimes be daunting. But fear not; your favorite host Helene guides you through this exciting journey in thi…

1
Consulting DNA: Finding your Project Soulmate! 15:42

1+ y ago15:42

15:42

In today's episode of our podcast series, "How to buy consulting services like a pro," we'll embark on a quest to decode Consulting DNA. So, why is it essential to consider Consulting DNA in your Request for Proposal (RFP)? Just like DNA carries the genetic information that shapes who we are, Consulting DNA encompasses the specific traits and quali…

1
Creating a Transparent Consulting Firm Selection Process 14:06

1+ y ago14:06

14:06

If you've been following our podcast on buying consulting services, you know that a well-crafted RFP is crucial for a consulting firm to understand your needs and expectations. Sharing a clear plan for selecting the right consultant for your RFP is also essential. This ensures fairness for all parties and makes it more enticing for top-notch firms …

1
How to Master Consulting RFPs: Deliverables, Timeline, and Budget 13:41

1+ y ago13:41

13:41

The RFP (Request for Proposal) is crucial in finding the right consultant and achieving your objectives. Unfortunately, many businesses don't place enough importance on this aspect or take the time to improve their RFP-writing process. However, a well-crafted RFP can make the difference between the success and failure of a consulting project. To bu…

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Helene Laffitte Consulting Quest Podcasts

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