For this special July 2008 meeting, the IMC San Diego Chapter will present a moderated, open-forum discussion of the immediate business issues and economic challenges facing consultants today.

While several key topics are prepared, priority discussion emphasis will be placed on the immediate issues presented by IMC San Diego Chapter members at or before the meeting.

Send or bring us the questions and concerns most affecting you, your practice and sales generation, as of mid-2008, and we’ll pull out key responses from CMCs and other seasoned consultants as to how they have handled, or are preparing to handle, these or similar issues.

Possible topics suggested to date include:

• Does it work to bring in a partner, a sub-contractor, a part time staffer, or a business school intern – if so, how do I do it cost effectively?
• I really need sales prospecting – and hate, or can’t, do it – what do I do now?
• What type of simple promotion or advertising is there, for a sole practioner or partnership, that can work in this economy?
• What new office technologies, procedures or programs are working for other seasoned consultants that I should consider?
• Enough of this “service differentiation” advice for my business proposals – I don’t even know what this means, let alone do it!
• What can I do to generate sales through “passive income”? Do I have to write a book or newsletter, or are there other ways that really do work?

This meeting will have a roll-up-your-sleeves attitude, to get issues on the table and potential solutions formulated – from input, insight and the “hard knocks school” from other experienced consultants.

The roundtable will be moderated – to keep all of us on point, providing input and answers, and focused on solutions and recommendations. The moderators are already prepared, to politely but firmly, not allow war stories, random bragging, or esoteric philosophies – just hard-hitting questions and succinct responses.

The session will also provide a few minutes for a very quick “wish list” forum, where anyone can ask the group for a recommendation, info source, or referral – such as, “does anyone have a good E&O Insurance provider,” or, “does anyone have a contact name at the business schools to obtain a business intern,” or, “has anyone had success with either the ACT or Goldmine CRM programs?”

An excellent breakfast buffet will be provided, as always. Bring your questions, concerns, fears, and business cards, and be prepared to give and get insightful information. Whether your practice is 25 years or 25 days in tenure, this is a meeting which will immediately benefit you and your practice.

Your questions and topics received beforehand are greatly appreciated. All questions will remain confidential and anonymous. Please email your roundtable topics or questions to Mike Barney CMC, mjbarney@mjbarney.com, or fax directly to him at 858-484-6005.