How do you navigate imposter syndrome and build confidence as a new consultant? On this episode of the Confessions of a Nonprofit Consultant podcast, Jess and Cindy interview Denyelle Fraser, nonprofit and equity design consultant who shares her journey and insights on thriving as a new consultant in the nonprofit world.

Denyelle, a mom and wife, shares her experience navigating the challenges of being a young, Black woman in the consulting industry, and how she overcomes imposter syndrome and microaggressions. She emphasizes the importance of community, representation, and staying true to oneself.

5 Key Takeaways:

• Embrace your lived experience: Your unique perspective and background are valuable assets in the consulting world.
• Build a strong community: Surround yourself with supportive people who understand your challenges and can provide guidance and encouragement.
• Don't be afraid to be different: Challenge conventional approaches and offer innovative solutions that reflect your values and expertise.
• Protect your energy: Set boundaries and prioritize self-care to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Focus on connection: Building genuine relationships with clients and colleagues is essential for success in the nonprofit sector.

Denyelle's insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, building a strong community, and staying true to oneself are invaluable for anyone navigating the challenges of the consulting industry.

Connect with Denyelle Fraser:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denyellefraser/

Connect with Cindy:

Cindy Wagman Coaching: cindywagman.com

Fractional Fundraising Network: fractionalfundraising.co/

LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cindywagman

Connect with Jess:

Out In the Boons: outintheboons.me

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jesscampbelloutintheboons/

Resources

More Than Enough Consulting

As a consultant, you probably have thought about growing a team, or hiring subcontractors or even getting work as a subcontractor. Lauren Elyse Tudor, founder of Architect Philanthropic Collective, joins us to share her journey and insights. Lauren's firm focuses on community-centered and diverse philanthropy, leveraging storytelling, strategic marketing, and inclusive fundraising strategies to help small to mid-sized shops thrive.

In this episode, Lauren opens up about her transition from a successful nonprofit career to entrepreneurship, the challenges she faced, and the valuable lessons she learned along the way. She shares how she built a team that thrives on collaboration and creative problem-solving. But here's the kicker: Lauren's agency operates on a revenue-sharing model that's designed to incentivize growth and ensure fairness. We dive deep into how this model works, why it's a game-changer for her team, and how it aligns with her values-driven approach to business.

Key Takeaways:

• Revenue-Sharing Model: Lauren's innovative model fosters collaboration and incentivizes growth by splitting revenue fairly between the company, the person who secured the contract, and the team members delivering the work.
• The Power of Packages: Packaging services into clear offerings simplifies pricing and helps clients understand the value they're receiving.
• Marketing Matters: Building a strong brand and marketing your services through thought leadership, networking, and partnerships is essential for attracting clients.
• Embrace Ambition: Setting ambitious goals and believing in your ability to achieve them is crucial for success.
• Values-Driven Business: Building a business that aligns with your values can lead to a more fulfilling and impactful career.

Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com

Connect with Lauren Tudor:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenelysetudor

Website: https://www.architectyourambition.com/

Connect with Cindy:

Cindy Wagman Coaching: cindywagman.com

Fractional Fundraising Network: fractionalfundraising.co/

LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cindywagman

Connect with Jess:

Out In the Boons: outintheboons.me

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jesscampbelloutintheboons/

Resources

Architect Philanthropic Collective

Daylight Advisors

AFP Greater Charlotte

ICON 2024

Duke University Nonprofit Management Program

United Way Greater Charlotte

Nonprofit Quarterly

Community Centric Fundraising

In this episode of Confessions with Jess and Cindy, Cindy sits down with fellow nonprofit consultants live at the RAISE conference.

She discusses the power of conferences in business development and knowledge sharing. Join Cindy as she chats with Sabrina Walker Hernandez, Barbara O'Reilly, Diana Farias Heinrich, Frank Velásquez Jr., and the dynamic duo Kristin and Sam from Swaim Strategies. They share their experiences, strategies, and confessions about leveraging conferences for business growth, the importance of getting paid for speaking engagements, and the power of collaboration in the nonprofit sector.

The consultants share how they approach conferences, from applying to speak to connecting with attendees and other consultants. They also discuss the importance of repurposing content and aligning speaking engagements with their business values. Additionally, they share their experiences with exhibiting at conferences and the challenges of making it a worthwhile investment.

Key takeaways

• Relationships are Key: Building relationships with other consultants and potential clients is essential for success. Conferences provide a valuable opportunity to network and connect with people in person.
• Be Selective: Not all conferences are created equal. Consider your business goals and target audience when selecting conferences to attend or speak at.
• Know Your Value: Understand the value you bring to the table and don't be afraid to ask for compensation for your time and expertise.
• Align with Your Goals: Make sure your conference attendance aligns with your overall business development strategy.
• Authenticity and vulnerability are powerful tools for connecting with your audience. Sharing your story, owning your mistakes, and being true to yourself can help you build trust and credibility.

Tune in to this episode of Confessions with Jess and Cindy to hear candid conversations with nonprofit consultants and gain valuable insights into navigating the conference landscape and building a successful business.

Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com

Connect with Cindy:

Cindy Wagman Coaching: cindywagman.com

Fractional Fundraising Network: fractionalfundraising.co/

LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cindywagman

Connect with Jess:

Out In the Boons: outintheboons.me

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jesscampbelloutintheboons/

Resources:

Boys and Girls Club

RAISE Conference

Blacks in Nonprofit

The Ethical Storytelling Framework

The Ethical Nonprofit Summit

4DaHood

The Ascending Leaders in Color Program

Nonprofit Storytelling Conference

Swaim Strategies