Over the past six or so years, since I left Ofgem, I've been building a portfolio of activities in the field of sustainable energy. When I embarked on this journey, I had a notion that some mix of research, strategic thinking and consultancy would make me happy. I was incredibly lucky on the first two. The Grantham Institute at Imperial College London took a punt on me and allowed me to squat as a Senior Research Fellow and Public Power Solutions Ltd happened to be looking for someone like me as a Non-Exec Director. Whilst these roles were surprising enough, the aspect of my theoretical portfolio I was least confident about was consultancy. As it happens, it turns out that not only is there a market for what I'm offering as a consultant, but I am really enjoying it.
Onto the 'ask' in this article. I've recently decided (i.e. told in no uncertain terms by my financial advisor) to start a business to manage my sprouting consultancy portfolio. I've even gone so far as to create a website - in fact if you are reading this, you are of course on it already. This feels like a step somewhat into the unknown for me. I know my network is full of successful consultants, business people and energy experts. I'm hoping that I can borrow a few minutes of your time for a bit of feedback. What do you think of the website? Do you know what I'm selling? Would you buy it? What am I missing from good practice? What questions should I have asked you?
Any advice as responses to this piece or indeed as a direct email would be brilliant. I'd be delighted to return the favour.
I'm also a big fan of collaboration, so let me know if we could work together on something.
Hi Jeff,
Good to see the web site.
My generic advice would be to think who is going to look at it and what they want to read, not what you’d like to say. Chances are no one is going to come here cold. They’ll have heard of you from another source and want to check you out.
More specifically, I’d have tabs on each of your services, and split your projects over the relevant tabs.
So for example. I am a recruiter looking for a non-exec, then I need to see non-exec experience.
Another example. I see you’ve worked with Laura on costing energy. I’d like to do something similar, but what did you actually do on that projec…