Time Blocking for Consulting
Time blocking strategies for consultants managing multiple clients, travel, and deliverables.
Overview
Consultants face frequent travel, multiple clients, and tight deadlines. Time blocking helps consultants create flexible schedules that account for travel time, batch client work, and protect business development time.
Common Challenges
Frequent travel
Multiple client projects
Tight deadlines
Constant context switching
Balancing client work and business development
Time Blocking Strategies
Schedule Travel Time Realistically
Block out travel time with buffer for delays. Don't schedule important work immediately before or after travel.
Examples:
- Include buffer time for delays
- Don't schedule important work after travel
- Use travel time for lighter tasks
Assign Client Time Blocks
Create dedicated time blocks for each client project. This creates clear boundaries and helps you stay focused.
Examples:
- Client A: Monday-Wednesday mornings
- Client B: Monday-Wednesday afternoons
- Client C: Thursday-Friday
Batch Admin Tasks
Group invoicing, emails, and project management into specific blocks. This reduces context switching.
Examples:
- Friday afternoons: All invoicing
- 2-3 times daily: Email checks
- Monday mornings: Project planning
Protect Business Development
Schedule regular blocks for marketing, networking, and finding new clients. Don't let client work consume all your time.
Examples:
- 20-30% of time on business development
- Weekly networking events
- Daily content creation
Best Practices
Use color-coding for each client in visual blocks
Create separate templates for different project types
Schedule 'buffer blocks' for unexpected client requests
Use time blocks to show capacity before committing
Track time spent to improve future estimates
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I manage multiple client deadlines?
Use visual time blocks to see all deadlines at once. Break large projects into smaller tasks and schedule them across multiple blocks. Start early to build in buffer time.
What if travel disrupts my schedule?
Build buffer time around travel. Don't schedule important work immediately before or after travel. Use travel time for lighter tasks like email or reading.
What percentage of time should go to business development?
Aim for 20-30% of your time on business development: marketing, networking, proposals, and relationship building. Protect this time as non-negotiable.
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Ready to Implement These Strategies?
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