Leap Into HR Consulting ®

3 Quick Wins to Get Client Conversations This Week (Plus FAQs on Proposals and Getting Clients) Episode Summary Feeling busy but not seeing any client conversations? In this practical 20 - 25 minute episode, Sarah shares three quick wins you can implement this week to create momentum, plus a bonus tactic that builds trust quickly. You will also hear answers to common Academy FAQs on niching, pricing, proposals (including a simple three-option proposal structure), follow-up, and getting clients without a huge network. Links and Resources Website: https://www.leapintoconsulting.com Capsule CRM: https://capsulecrm.com/invite/?friend=dXMxIzIwMzg4MQ Festival tickets: https://www.leapintoconsulting.com/the-hr-consultancy-festival-2026 One month of free access to The HR Consultancy Academy: https://leap-into-consulting.mykajabi.com/offers/DEANnq4M/checkout In This Episode, You Will Learn How to use the 10/10 List to generate warm introductions (without feeling salesy) A simple LinkedIn formula: One Problem, One Post, One Offer The Two-Call Week approach to keep business development consistent Why tracking leads and follow-ups in Capsule CRM prevents opportunities from slipping A bonus strategy: "Pick My Brain" calls to build trust and uncover paid work How to structure a three-option proposal so clients can choose the right level of support FAQs Covered Do I need a niche yet? How do I price when I feel unsure? When should I send a proposal? What should a simple proposal include? How do I create a three-option proposal? What if they ask for my day rate? How do I get clients without a big network? Should I offer referral incentives? How many follow-ups is too many? What if I am scared of outreach?

The 5 Cs for Consistent Growth How HR Consultants Can Build Pipeline Without Burnout Running a consultancy can feel like a balancing act. You are delivering great work, supporting clients, managing the business, and trying to keep momentum going all at the same time. It is rewarding, but it can also feel inconsistent and exhausting. In this episode, Sarah shares an honest reflection on revisiting her own business fundamentals at the start of the year and why small readjustments and tracking the right success factors can dramatically improve consistency and control. She then applies the 5 Cs model Confidence, Clarity, Credibility, Collaboration and Courage through a growth lens, giving HR consultants a practical operating system they can start using straight away. This is not theory. It is grounded, real-world guidance based on what Sarah sees working every day with established consultants. In this episode, you will learn: * Why most consultants do not have a lead problem, they have a follow-up problem * How to use confident, professional follow-up without feeling awkward * Why focusing on one clear lead offer per quarter improves pipeline and referrals * What credibility assets help clients feel safe saying yes * How to build referral routes rather than relying on random networking * A simple weekly rhythm to protect pipeline even when delivery is busy * Why consistency comes from small habits, not big overhauls About The HR Consultancy Academy Sarah also shares how you can now access one month of guest access to The HR Consultancy Academy, allowing you to experience the community and support before deciding whether to join. The Academy is not a passive membership. Consultants who get the most value are those who actively engage by: * Taking part in challenges * Attending Live CPD monthly days * Joining monthly networking sessions * Asking questions and staying involved in the community That is where momentum builds and businesses begin to feel more consistent and sustainable. Find out more here: 👉 https://www.leapintoconsulting.com/hr-consultancy-academy

In this episode, Sarah Hamilton-Gill FCIPD dives deep into the real challenges new HR consultants face in their first year. Drawing on decades of experience, client stories, and insights from her bestselling book, “Leap into Consulting,” Sarah unpacks the most common stumbling blocks - like client acquisition struggles, confidence wobbles, and the temptation to focus on “busy work” instead of what actually grows your business. To find out more about our services : www.leapintoconsulting.com

As we are close to wrapping up 2025, this episode gives you the space, clarity and structure to design a confident, focused and successful year ahead. Whether you’re an established HR consultant or preparing to make the leap in 2026, this guided working session will help you reflect on your year, reset your direction and build a simple, powerful plan for the next 12 months. Join Sarah Hamilton-Gill FCIPD - award-winning mentor, author of Leap into HR Consulting® and founder of The HR Consultancy Academy as she walks you through: • A guided 2025 debrief: what worked, what didn’t, and what to leave behind • How to design 2026 with intention instead of drifting into another year • The 3 simple goals every consultant needs: revenue, lifestyle and impact • How to use 90-day sprints to stay focused and avoid feast-and-famine cycles • The first practical steps you can take this week to start 2026 strong This episode is reflective, practical and designed to help you hit January with clarity and confidence. Perfect for listening on a winter walk, a quiet morning with a notebook, or during your end-of-year planning session. If you want support, structure and a community around you in 2026, explore: • The HR Consultants Bootcamp • The HR Consultancy Academy • The Coaching Cards for Start-Up, Growth and Scale-Up Share your top 2026 goal with Sarah on LinkedIn - she’d love to hear it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahhg/ Onwards and upwards ✨

What an event and here we have mashed together Part 1 of the festival with snippets from many of our podcast guests who were interviewed by Steve Randall our podcast producer and host from the podmobile! Next year's event details are here and tickets are now live: https://www.leapintoconsulting.com/the-hr-consultancy-festival-2026 We look forward to seeing you there ! Sarah

Shownotes Summary Emily’s transition story: redundancy as a catalyst and the role of a supportive manager. Niche expertise: European HR operations and multi-jurisdictional compliance. Bootcamp experience: clarity, presence audit tool, and the power of community. Consulting growth: defining her ideal client, networking, and securing first clients. Career reflections: balancing multiple hats, enjoying flexibility, and advice for aspiring consultants. Upcoming initiatives: HR upskilling modules for UK HR professionals. Country-specific HR audits and compliance support packages. Connect with Emily on LinkedIn to learn more about her services and upcoming resources. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonates with you!

In this episode, Sarah talks with Russell Groves, founder of Sensei Limited, about the power of AI tools, the evolution of his SME-focused learning platform, and why partnering with HR consultants is transforming L&D. From freemium compliance courses to leadership development and expert collaboration, this conversation is packed with insights for consultants and business leaders alike. To take advantage of our partnership and to find out more click here : https://trainingsensei.com/partner-with-leap/ What a great story and opportunity for our listeners to add this service to their portfolio.

In this inspiring conversation, Sarah May shares how she went from corporate HR managing employee relations for over 4,000 employees across 52 hotels to running her own successful HR consultancy, Mayday HR. After joining the Leap into HR Consulting Bootcamp, Sarah gained the momentum, confidence, and business mindset she needed to launch her consultancy in just two months. She’s since built a thriving business, anchored by her innovative retainer service, the “Mayday Maintainer”, which offers clients peace of mind, sustainable support, and flexible access to her expertise.

In this podcast episode, we’re joined once again by the brilliant Justine Palin, diving into the most frequently asked questions from consultants who are ready to grow beyond being a solo founder. Together, we explore what it really takes to scale your consultancy, whether that means building a team, expanding your offerings, or stepping into a more strategic leadership role. If you’ve ever asked, “What’s next for me and my business?”, this one’s for you. To join the upcoming free masterclass sign up here You’ll learn how to move from overwhelmed and overworked to operating with clarity, systems, and the right kind of support. What we’ll cover: You’ll leave with:

In this special milestone episode, Sarah Hamilton-Gill FCIPD reflects on her journey from corporate HR to launching a successful consulting business and 100 episodes of this podcast. Using her powerful 5C’s Model ,Confidence, Clarity, Credibility, Collaboration, and Courage ,Sarah shares behind-the-scenes stories, key lessons from mentoring over 250 consultants, and how this podcast became a trusted voice for HR professionals ready to make the leap. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, this is an inspiring look at what it really takes to build a life and business you love. For more information on our services please visit : www.leapintoconsulting.com

🎧 Episode Summary: Struggling to show up confidently on camera? Avoiding sales conversations because they feel too “salesy”? You’re not alone – and in this episode, Sarah Hamilton-Gill explores how confidence isn’t something you're born with… it's something you build. This episode is packed with practical strategies for HR and People Consultants ready to own their value, increase their visibility, and embrace sales with integrity. Whether you're just starting out or refining your message as a more experienced consultant, this is your confidence boost in audio form. 🔍 In This Episode, Sarah Covers: https://www.leapintoconsulting.com/consulting-directory

You started your HR consultancy for freedom—so why does it feel like you’re working more than ever? In this episode, I explore the fine line between being driven and becoming a workaholic. We’ll unpack: 💬 The hidden reasons consultants push so hard 🔍 How to recognise when passion becomes pressure 🌱 What real success looks like—and how to reclaim balance If you’ve ever felt like your business is running you, this one’s for you. 🎧 Listen now on your favourite podcast platform or at www.leapintoconsulting.com/podcast

In this episode, Sarah Hamilton-Gill FCIPD gets real about the challenges HR consultants face during the summer months — from juggling childcare to dealing with slower client response times — and reveals why now is not the time to take your foot off the gas. She shares proven strategies to help you build visibility, have better discovery calls, and attract more clients (even if you only have a few hours a week). Sarah also introduces the brand-new 6-Week Summer Sales Coaching Programme, which replaces the usual July Bootcamp to focus on what consultants need most right now: sales momentum. This episode is packed with practical tips, relatable insights, and a game plan to help you make the most of your summer — and head into September with a solid pipeline. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why taking time off from marketing over summer could hurt your autumn revenue How to make sales manageable — even with children off school The biggest mistake consultants make between July and September Why getting clients is the #1 challenge in the HR consulting space right now What’s inside the new Summer Sales Coaching Programme How the programme expands on the popular “12 Ways to Get More Clients” webinar 📌 Resources Mentioned: 💻 Join the Summer Sales Coaching Programme (Starts July 3rd): Contact Kim Hall on kimh@leapintoconsulting.com to register your interest.

In this episode of Leap Into HR Consulting, host Sarah Hamilton-Gill discusses the pervasive issue of burnout among HR professionals and consultants. She shares alarming statistics about burnout rates, particularly in the HR sector, and emphasises the emotional toll it takes on individuals. The conversation explores the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent professionals and the double burden of being both an HR professional and an entrepreneur. Sarah offers practical strategies for preventing burnout, including setting boundaries, seeking support, and celebrating personal wins. Thanks go to Evolving HR for their HR Wellbeing Survey 2025 .

Open doors with this partnership and help your SME clients grow their business at the same time you do ! We are joined by our guest Louise Aldous-Critchley, Head of Partnerships for BreatheHR. To find out more contact Tanner Woodrow-Hill , Partner Development Specialist on : tanner@breathehr.com If you would like to join our next HR Consultants Virtual Bootcamp and you are a BreatheHR partner you get discounted rates. https://www.breathehr.com/en-gb/leap-into-hr-consulting-virtual-group-coaching-programme

In this episode we are joined by our guest Steph Bonnie , one of our Expert Mentors for The HR Consultancy Academy ® , we explore: ✔️ Why automation is a game-changer for HR consultants ✔️ Simple automation tools to implement today ✔️ How to prevent lost leads and missed opportunities ✔️ The role of AI in modern HR consulting Please reach out to Steph Bonnie if you would like to discuss your business. Her email is : steph@stebbington.com

The world of SMEs is shifting fast, and economic uncertainty is making waves. With 90% of businesses worldwide classified as SMEs and accounting for 50% of global employment, the stakes have never been higher. In this episode, Sarah Hamilton Gill dives into the challenges these businesses face—layoffs, closures, and the rise of mergers & acquisitions—and explores how HR consultants can be the game-changers they need right now. 💡 Inside this episode, you’ll discover: - How HR consultants can support businesses navigating tough times - The role of HR in seamless cultural integration during mergers - Strategies for scaling SMEs on a growth trajectory - How to position yourself as the go-to HR expert when businesses need guidance the most If you want to stay ahead of the curve and turn uncertainty into opportunity, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧 Tune in now.

In this episode, Sarah Hamilton-Gill explores how redundancy—often seen as an ending—can actually be the start of something transformative, especially for HR professionals over 50. Drawing from her own experience, Sarah shares honest insights on navigating career shifts, particularly for women in HR, and why your years of experience are your greatest asset. She breaks down the opportunities that consulting presents, offering practical advice on how to turn your corporate expertise into a thriving business. If you’ve ever wondered whether consulting could be your next chapter, this episode is a must-listen. 🔹 Chapters: (00:00) Why redundancy for HR professionals over 50 can be the start of something new (01:22) How you can support colleagues facing redundancy (04:04) Your career has equipped you with skills that can fuel a consulting business (08:06) Why stepping into consulting makes returning to corporate life unlikely (14:02) Find out more about Leap into Consulting at https://www.leapintoconsulting.com ✨ Tune in and reimagine what’s possible!

In this episode of the Leap Into HR Consulting podcast, host Sarah Hamilton-Gill explores the power of niching in the HR consulting industry. She shares her journey of building a supportive community for HR professionals transitioning into consulting and introduces exciting new initiatives, including the HR Consultancy Academy and the upcoming HR Consultancy Festival. Sarah emphasises the importance of identifying market gaps and creating your own opportunities rather than following industry trends. In the second part of the episode, Sarah is joined by guest Steph Robey, who shares her personal experience of moving into consulting, offering valuable insights into her journey and lessons learned. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to take control of their career and make a meaningful impact in the HR space! visit our website : www.leapintoconsulting.com Connect on LinkedIn: Sarah Hamilton-Gill FCIPD | LinkedIn Connect with our guest Steph Robey : Stephanie Robey (Chartered FCIPD) | LinkedIn Connect with our Podcast Producer Steve Randall :Steve Randall | LinkedIn

Welcome to the first episode of the new year! Sarah Hamilton-Gill is here to help you hit the ground running in 2025. In this value-packed episode, we dive deep into mindset strategies for HR consultants. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to reinvigorate your consulting business, this episode is the perfect way to set the tone for a successful year. ⭐ Key Insights from the Episode:“Your mindset shapes your reality.” Starting the year with a growth mindset can help you embrace challenges, set achievable goals, and stay motivated throughout the months ahead. Sarah shares her quick wins for January, and provides actionable advice on building consistent habits, overcoming procrastination, and setting the right tone for the year ahead in this podcast. 📢 Episode Takeaway:“It’s not about doing everything at once. It’s about starting with small, intentional steps.” 📱 Listen Now:Don’t miss out on this essential start-of-the-year episode! Plus, why not check out the rest of Sarah’s great podcasts! 📚 Join The HR Consultancy AcademyAre you looking to take your HR consulting business to the next level? Join our thriving community of consultants for ongoing support, resources, and growth opportunities in 2025.🔗 Ready to get started? Visit www.thehrconsultancyacademy.com to learn more and join today! To find out more about our Leap into HR Consultant programs visit our website at www.leapintoconsulting.com