So... you’re thinking about booking that free 30-minute consultation? Smart move. Whether you’re building your first offer or pivoting your strategy, a short session with the right expert can spark clarity, open new ideas, and even shortcut weeks of trial-and-error.
But here's the truth: the value of a consultation isn’t in the time itself. It’s in how you show up for it.
Let’s talk about how to make those 30 minutes count!
1. Get Clear on What You Actually Want
Before the call, ask yourself: What would make this session a win for me?
Is it clarity on your marketing direction? A fresh set of eyes on your brand positioning? A sanity check before you launch? Whatever it is - write it down. One solid, specific goal will guide the entire conversation.
📌 Example: “I want to figure out why my online presence isn’t converting and what I should focus on next.”
2. Bring the Right Questions
Your goal sets the direction. Good questions fuel the journey.
Think open-ended, strategic, and aligned with where you are right now. This isn’t about impressing anyone - it’s about unlocking new insight. And yes, it’s okay to bring a short list to the call.
Try asking:
What marketing tactics have worked well for businesses like mine?
How can I position my brand to stand out more in a competitive market?
Where would you focus next if you were in my shoes?
👉 Prioritize the most important questions - 30 minutes fly by.
3. Do a Quick Background Check
No need to cyberstalk your consultant, but it’s worth skimming their website or recent content. It’ll help you ask sharper questions and understand how their expertise fits into your world.
At Palaonta Marketing, we don’t just talk strategy, we apply it across real-life businesses every week. If you know our style, you’ll know what kind of answers you’ll get: thoughtful, practical and honest.
4. Take Notes Like a Pro
Don’t just nod along. Write things down.
Use bullet points. Highlight anything that made you go “ahhh, that makes sense.” Capture next steps and key phrases that stick with you. These notes become your action plan the moment the call ends.
5. Be Open to Real Feedback
A good consultation isn’t about praise - it’s about perspective. Maybe your offer needs tightening. Maybe your messaging is confusing people. That’s okay.
Constructive feedback is gold. If you’re open to it, this one call can shift your entire approach.
What If You Skip the Consultation?
Sure, there are other options: paid strategy sessions, full audits, online courses, workshops. And sometimes, those make sense.
But nothing beats tailored advice from someone who gets your stage of business. Especially when it’s free and no-strings-attached.
Truth is, many breakthroughs happen not in long programs, but in short, honest conversations with the right people.
That’s exactly why I offer a free 30-minute consultation to all potential clients - no pressure - just a chance to talk through where you are, what you need and whether we’re a good match to work together.
Timing Is Everything
If you're launching something, shifting gears, or feeling stuck - that’s the time to book a session. Align it with a key business moment and the insights you gain will feel even more relevant and actionable.
Don’t Just End the Call… Build on It
A great consultation doesn’t have to be a one-off. Send a thank-you email. Follow up on what you discussed. And if it felt like a good fit? Ask what working together longer-term could look like.
Consultations often lead to collaborations, referrals and even long-term partnerships. But it all starts with showing up prepared and curious.
Bonus Prep Resources (If You’re a Nerd Like Me 😉)
📚 Read a business book in your niche
🎧 Join a free webinar on something you’re exploring
🤝 Talk to a fellow founder about what’s worked for them
You don’t need to overdo it. Just stay curious.
Final Thoughts
That 30-minute consultation you’re considering? It might feel small. But with the right mindset, it can become a catalyst.
Show up clear, ask the right questions, stay open... and take action afterward. That’s how small steps lead to bigger growth.
And if I happen to be the ones you're meeting with? I can't wait to hear what you're working on.
