A CONSULTANT’S SURVIVAL GUIDE: MAKING LIFE EASIER IN THE FAST LANE
As a consultant juggling multiple projects, presentations, constant travel, and endless client demands, I know our minds never truly stop running. Every small efficiency gain matters. Here’s my personally curated list of tools and practices that have made my consulting life more manageable:
01. MEETING & CALENDAR MANAGEMENT
Calendar Blocks:
- Block 30 mins before important client meetings for prep
- Reserve Fridays 4-5 PM for weekly planning
- Schedule “focus time” blocks for deliverable work
- Add 15-min buffers between meetings for quick breaks/emails
02. TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Tech Setup:
- Portable second monitor (LG flat screen with C port)
- Noise-canceling headphones for flights/client sites
- Power bank for long days
- Mobile hotspot for backup internet
- Universal power adapter
Travel Apps:
- TripIt Pro for flight tracking
- Uber/Lyft preset with corporate card
- Mobile scanning apps for receipts
- Offline maps for new cities
- Hotel chain apps for quick booking
03. PRODUCTIVITY BOOSTERS
Document Management:
- Standardized file naming: Client_Project_DocumentType_Version
- Local sync of key files before flights
- Quick-access folders for current projects
- Template library for common deliverables
Email Management:
- Process emails in batches (10am, 2pm, 6pm)
- Use email templates for common responses
- Set up rules for project-specific emails
- Mobile email signature with “Sent from mobile, brevity appreciated”
04. ANALYSIS & DELIVERABLES
Excel Efficiency:
- Pre-built analysis templates
- Keyboard shortcuts cheat sheet
- Macro library for common tasks
- Standard color coding system
PowerPoint Shortcuts:
- Saved custom layouts
- Brand-compliant color schemes
- Go-to slide library
- Quick access toolbar customization
05. CLIENT MANAGEMENT
Communication:
- Standard project update template
- Weekly status report format
- Action item tracker
- Decision log template
Documentation:
- Meeting notes template
- Key discussion points tracker
- Client preference sheet
- Stakeholder contact list
06. PERSONAL SANITY SAVERS
Health & Wellness:
- Hotel room workout routine
- Healthy airport food spots list
- Sleep mask and melatonin for travel
- Water tracking reminder
- Stand-up desk converter for long days
Time Management:
- 2-minute rule: If it takes less than 2 minutes, do it now
- Weekly planning on Sunday evenings
- Daily top 3 priorities list
- Time tracking to identify inefficiencies
07. KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT
Quick Reference:
- Industry data bookmarks
- Common analysis frameworks
- Past project reference guide
- Subject matter expert contacts
Learning:
- Audible
- Podcast playlist for commutes
- Saved articles for flights
- Online course schedule
- Industry newsletter subscriptions
Anything I missed? Share your points here and I’ll get this added to info@A1 Slidesdigital.com
