The low-effort, high-impact move that saves you time—and shows you exactly who you’re talking to.
Disclaimer: I may earn a small commission when you use my coupon code/link to any products or services from this website. I care about integrity, so you should know I only offer affiliate links for resources/programs I’ve personally used and loved in my business and my clients’ businesses. Please only buy what you need, but rest assured knowing your support helps keep this content flowing!
Rebel CEOs™, let’s talk consults. I love a coffee date with a biz friend as much as anyone—but when it comes to potential clients? In-person meetings aren’t always it.
Because here’s the truth: if you’re meeting someone face-to-face before they’ve seen your pricing, proposal, or even decided they’re ready to book… you’re spending CEO-level time on a maybe. 🙅♀️
That’s why I swear by phone consults. Not only are they faster and easier to schedule, but they reveal a lot about whether a client will be a dream to work with—or a red flag in disguise.
Let’s break down the benefits—and how to use consults to protect your time, your boundaries, and your energy.
The Perks of Phone Consults
1. You Stay Comfortable (and Productive)
No need to get dressed up or leave your desk. You can take consults from your office, your kitchen table, or your post-yoga glow—whatever works for you.
2. Scheduling Is Simple
Using tools like Acuity or a built-in CRM scheduler means no back-and-forth emails. Your consults get booked while you sleep.
✨ Pro Tip: Pre-qualify leads with a form before they ever get to your calendar.
3. You Save Time (and Gas)
Why drive 45 minutes for a client who may ghost you after the call? Phone consults save you hours every month—especially if you’re juggling multiple inquiries.
4. You Control the Vibe
Let’s be honest—your face might say what your brain’s trying to filter. Phone consults let you stay neutral while assessing red flags or misaligned visions.
5. You Test Their Respect for Boundaries
If someone shows up late, ignores your availability, or pushes back on scheduling policies… that’s intel. Consults give you a preview of how they’ll show up as a client.
What Consults Really Reveal About a Client
At their core, consults help you:
- Communication Style: Is the convo awkward or confusing? That won’t magically improve over email. A strong client relationship starts with clear verbal communication.
- Respect for Time: Do they show up on time? Respect your time limits? Stay on track? It’s a lot easier to wrap up a phone consult with a clear “thanks so much!” than to awkwardly inch your way out of a coffee shop when the convo runs long. Phone consults help you stay focused, set boundaries, and end on time—no guilt, no weirdness.
- Showcase Your Focus: A consult gives you insight into what they think they need—and a golden opportunity to clarify what you actually offer. If your services have shifted (and your website hasn’t caught up), this is your chance to realign the conversation, highlight what you do best, and guide the client toward the solution that fits.
Tools to Streamline Your Consult Process
Using the right tools and systems doesn’t just streamline your consults—it sets the tone for a smooth, pro-level onboarding experience. Here are a few worth adding to your stack:
| Tool Type | Our Favorite Picks | What They Do |
| CRM Systems | HoneyBook, Dubsado, Aisle Planner | Store lead info, send proposals, automate emails |
| Scheduling Tools | Built into most CRMs or tools like Acuity | Embed on your site, sync to your calendar |
| Branded Email Templates | Built into most CRMs | Send polished confirmations, follow-ups, next steps |
Actionable Insights for Rebel CEOs™
Here’s how to take your consult process to the next level:
- Keep the Experience Pro: Use confirmation emails, prep questions, and branded touchpoints—even if it’s just a phone call. First impressions matter.
- Define Clear Processes: Know how long your consults should be, what you’ll cover, and how you’ll wrap them up. Create a simple script or checklist if needed.
- Optimize Your Systems: Use the automation tools in your CRM to leverage your workflows and reduce time spent on repetitive tasks.
Want a smoother, stress-free consult process?
✔️ Ready to streamline with a CRM? Let’s set it up—done-for-you style.
✔️ More of a DIY’er? Browse our shop for templates, trainings, and time-saving tools.
✔️ Just starting your research? Test-drive our favorite platforms:
Your consult process doesn’t have to be chaotic. We’ll help you simplify it—your way.
