The Business of College Consulting

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Click here! ChatGPTIn this interview, Lisa Bleich discusses her initial steps in marketing her services, relying heavily on word of mouth and personal connections. As her business grew, she recognized the need for systematizing processes and hiring a team to handle various aspects of client work, particularly essay writing.  Lisa emphasizes the importance of finding team members who complement each other and align with the company's culture. She also shares insights into employee compensation structures and strategies for managing client workloads efficiently. We wrap up the interview with Lisa sharing what's on the horizon for College Bound Mentor and her best advice or new college consultants! Check out Lisa's book Surviving the College Application Process!

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Click here! Joan Koven,  culinary connoisseur turned college consultant, dishes out her recipe for success, from her bold leap into a new field to her savvy networking that seasoned her burgeoning career. In the heart of our discussion, Joan shares her innovative hiring practices, switching from Craigslist to Indeed to concoct the perfect team. Plus, sneak a peek at how Joan's Italy-based assistant became an indispensable cog in their well-oiled machine and the rewarding journey of internal promotions.To conclude we discuss balancing technology with tried-and-true method, we celebrate the nurturing relationships with parents, a cornerstone of the consulting process, and look at the power of professional development through involvement in professional associationsJoan's story is a testament to the passion and leadership that fuel the college consulting community, a beacon of inspiration for all striving for excellence in this field. Join us for a hearty serving of wisdom and wit from a leader who's truly worth following.

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Click here! Have you ever felt the thrill of discovering your true passion after taking an unexpected turn in your career path?  Jess Shermack of Virtual College Counselors, shares her entrepreneurship journey, emphasizing the pivotal role of support networks and the courage required to transition from a full-time job to the uncertainties of running a start-up. She uncovers the strategic branding and adaptability that have driven the success of her business, even as the pandemic reshaped the educational landscape.Jess recounts the evolution of her collaboration with Sawyer, where skepticism turned into synergy, and long work hours blossomed into a thriving business relationship. They juggle multiple roles and set boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This episode peels back the curtain on the real grind of building a startup, complete with the occasional "Shaun of the Dead" quote to keep things in perspective. Jess shares her experiences with imposter syndrome, the quest for credibility without an Ivy League badge, and the art of setting firm client boundaries. Through her anecdotes, you'll gain invaluable insights into the importance of specializing and building genuine connections. Tune in for an intimate look at the personal and professional growth that comes from following one's passion!

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Click here! Join Brooke Daly and special guest Chris Bell from Bell College Consulting as they dive deep into the benefits of staying solo versus growing a team. Chris shares a wealth of experiences from his career transitions to humorous marketing mishaps, and offers candid insights into establishing a client base.  Chris shares wisdom on prioritizing well-being in a lifestyle business, offering strategies for maintaining quality while managing demand. They conclude by highlighting the value of professional groups and the importance of forging a unique path in educational consulting for a fulfilling professional life.

Liz Murphy, founder of Liz Murphy College Advising, shares insights from her journey in scaling a college advising practice. She discusses utilizing part-time coaches and the power of relationship marketing over traditional methods. Liz tackles the challenges of money mindset, revealing her transition to industry-standard pricing after improving her financial management. With a focus on simple tech tools and effective team structure, she reflects on the importance of managing parent involvement in the advising process and the value of mentorship from her IEC peers.

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Click here! In this podcast episode, Brooke interviews Ibrahim Firat, owner of Firat Education and current president of IECA. Ibrahim discusses how he started a part-time tutoring business and expanded it into a full-time educational consulting practice. He emphasizes the importance of association membership, hiring, and how your role morphs as a business owner when you expand. They also touch on marketing strategies and the challenges of business growth. Ibrahim shares valuable advice for consultants, including adapting to varying regulations, valuing your services, and prioritizing health and family.

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Click here! In this episode, Brooke interviews Scott Hamilton. Scott is a past president of the Higher Education Consultants Association and the owner of Future Stars College Counseling. Scott shares his journey into the college consulting business, how he transitioned from working with students in their homes to having an office, and how he expanded his team of counselors. He discusses his marketing strategies, including speaking engagements, referrals, and raising fees. 

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Click here! In the final episode of the season, Brooke chats with Leah Beasley about her family history of working in admissions, and her journey from being a tour guide to working to admissions to starting her own business as a college consultant. 

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Click here! In this episode of The Business of College Consulting, IEC Hanna Stotland shares her story of how her own college admission experience, including being admitted to Harvard with a G.E.D, shaped her crisis management IEC practice. Hanna also shares insight and perspective on charging what you're worth. 

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Click here! In this episode, Brooke chats with Zach Galin, Founder of Galin Education, a test prep, tutoring, and college consulting business based in Madison, WI. Zach gives great advice for marketing in the early years of your business and how to grow a sellable business.