E114 Building a Platform That Connects Companies With Fractional Talent | Michele Cook

In this episode, Michelle Cook discusses the intersection of tech layoffs and AI implementation, highlighting the challenges faced by executives in the current market. She shares her vision of building a platform to help laid-off executives transition into fractional consulting roles, emphasizing the importance of human intelligence in the workplace. Michelle outlines her strategies for recruitment, positioning fractional services to companies, and navigating budget constraints. The conversation also touches on networking, sales cycles, and the current status of her platform development, concluding with her aspirations for the future of her business.

Takeaways

Massive layoffs are occurring in tech, with companies like Meta and Amazon leading the way.
AI is being used to replace human jobs, causing stress and uncertainty for employees.
Companies are realizing they need experienced executives back after layoffs.
Michelle aims to help executives transition into fractional roles to maintain job security.
Building a platform for fractional executives involves both recruitment and consulting services.
Networking and building relationships are crucial for finding potential clients.
Positioning fractional services as a cost-effective solution is key during budget constraints.
Sales cycles can be long and challenging, requiring effective follow-up strategies.
The platform is still in development but has potential for growth and success.
Michelle is currently balancing fractional work with building her platform.

Connect with Michele Cook: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-cook-3624ab9/

Call to Action:

If this helped you think differently about your consulting business, leave a review. It'll take less than a minute and it'll help other independent consultants find the show.

Work with AJ, Client Attraction System Assessment
Most consultants don't have a client attraction system. Do you?

You've got expertise. The question isn't whether you can do the work — it's whether you have a system that consistently brings clients to you.

Book a free Client Attraction System Assessment with AJ. On the call, you'll get clarity on:
• Whether you have an actual system for attracting clients
• Which part of your process needs attention
• The one change that would shift you from reacting to the market to leading it

This assessment is right for you if you're making less than $100K, know you should be at $150K or more, and want to stop guessing about why you aren't getting new clients consistently.