A pitch consultant is someone who is highly skilled at putting together slick PR & marketing presentations and top Sydney PR agencies would usually call in a pitch consultancy for a large account prospect. They would do this at the very outset, as soon as they know they have a pitch and if you are thinking about that potential new client, here is some background information on the different types of pitch consultant.
- Process – This type of consultant is focused on the process and not the outcome and is the most common type of pitch consultants; offering project management service, with some hands-on work if needed. Typically has an Excel spreadsheet approach to data capture and will benchmark agencies against each other. Most charge by the hour, while some prefer project fees. A good process management consultant would have a solid name in the industry and is highly skilled at managing pitches. The process putcher would follow major case studies that use processes they are very familiar with; they are not comfortable thinking outside the box, yet at the same time, there is a sense of reliability.
- Grey hair – An apt name, as this consultant goes completely by experience and traditions; they tend not to rely that much on IT, preferring boards and posters. He/she usually uses a single strategy but is always open to suggestions and if flexible to a degree. Often a small team of 2 or 3 key players; they rely heavily on their long-standing presence in the marketplace, with a decent track record but nothing too impressive. Sometimes known as the ‘old guard’, the grey hair consultant does not readily accept change, preferring instead to stick to traditional methods. Click here to find out about digital asset management.
- Rocket science – Very resourceful at capturing agency data, this is the proactive type of pitch consultant who has a huge library of top resources and focuses on the total process. The consultant has access to a range of methodologies and will advise on which is best to achieve your objectives. He or she has access to subject matter experts and while might be in the upper price range, you do get value for money. This professional spends time researching innovative strategies and is not afraid to try new things.
When choosing a pitch consultancy, we hope that the above information helps you to make an informed decision and that you are successful with seeking new clients. While you might not need any assistance with a small account, the big players are very important and if you want to boost your chances of success, bring in a top-rated pitch consultant.
Knowing your competition is an essential aspect of pitching for an account and the pitch consultancy knows how to carry out an in-depth investigation of an agency. Corporate management is a high-pressure arena and performance is everything.
