Consulting Insights

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Oct 09 • 1 min read

Are You a Drifter? How to Avoid a Common Focus Mistake


Hello Reader

Have you ever heard of the "Drifter" focus mistake? Probably not. It is my term for a real problem I've seen consultants make.

Clarity in your focus is critical to becoming known as the go-to expert in your field. However, even experienced consultants can fall prey to three common focus mistakes.

The first of the three mistakes I refer to as Jack-of-all-Trades, Master of None or the “Curse of Expertise” mistake. New consultants and even those with years of experience can fall into this trap. With so much expertise in multiple areas, you struggle to define the one thing for which you want to be known. I’ve spoken, written, and created several videos on this mistake which you can find on the YouTube channel.

The second mistake is the Drifter mistake. This is where you have a clear focus and start to or already have achieved the go-to consultant title. However, you slowly drift away, causing your revenue and reputation to spiral downward. It’s subtle, but the impact can be devastating and not everyone recovers.

That is what this week’s video is about-the Drifter mistake and how to avoid it.

The final mistake is the Hesitator mistake. This is where the consultant hesitates to change when a change is needed. You’re known as an expert, but you resist shifting something that ties to your focus when the market or your clients are telling you it’s time to evolve. I’ll be covering this one in an upcoming video—stay tuned!

This week’s question
Have you ever become restless with your business and added services that don’t tie to your focus? If so, what happened and how did your recover? Drop me an email and let me know.

Until the next Consulting Insight,

Laura Burford


Whenever you’re ready, here are ways I can help you become an Experienced "Go-To" Consultant:

Consulting Mastery: A Path to a Sustainable and Profitable Business (Hybrid Online Course): Walk away with a "less is more" approach that enables you implement effective, efficient processes that attract the right clients, provide consistent revenue, and enable you enjoy life on your terms. To find out more, schedule a free 45 minute Consulting Strategy session.

Consultant Assessment (Document): Assess your knowledge and skills with this downloadable document.

The Consultant’s Blueprint (Video): A Framework you can use as a guide for your consulting business.


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Have a question? Send me an email at Laura@lauraburford.com.


Are you a Consultant looking to establish and grow your consulting business? If so, subscribe to get the latest insights to help you SOAR and build a profitable, sustainable business.


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