You've landed the client. Now what? The first few days and weeks of a consulting engagement are a critical window to set the tone, build relationships, and lay the foundation for success. It's not about being the smartest person in the room; it's about becoming a trusted partner.

In this episode, Ben Griswold (Grizen) and Noah Heldman (OutcomeSource) provide a masterclass on how to navigate the crucial onboarding period. They argue that the single most important goal is to be trustworthy, and they unpack the practical steps to achieve it—from controlling what you can control to the strategic power of vulnerability. Featuring a cautionary tale of a well-intentioned but disastrous 40-page document, this conversation is a must-listen for any consultant looking to make an immediate and lasting positive impact.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• The simple (but not easy) foundation of all consulting: Building trust.
• A powerful story of what not to do (and the importance of understanding unspoken client motivations).
• How to deliver a "quick win" by improving the client's own processes from day one.
• The strategic power of vulnerability and asking "dumb questions" to accelerate learning.
• The crucial mindset shift from transactional vendor to trusted partner.

Connect with Us:

• Ben Griswold | Grizen: https://grizen.com
• Noah Heldman | OutcomeSource: https://outcomesource.com