Podcast Summary
In this episode of The HE Consultant’s Toolkit, we explore the critical skill of time management for independent higher education consultants. With multiple projects, shifting client demands, and the pressure to maintain a work-life balance, effective time management is essential to sustaining a successful consultancy career.

Karen shares personal insights from her own consultancy journey, discussing practical strategies for prioritising tasks, using productivity tools, managing quieter periods, and setting boundaries to prevent burnout. She also highlights common time management pitfalls and provides a simple, actionable framework for consultants to stay in control of their workload.

Key Takeaways

✅ Prioritise tasks effectively – Use tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to focus on work that delivers the most impact rather than constantly firefighting urgent but less important tasks.

✅ Use productivity tools wisely – Platforms like Padlet and Google Calendar can help manage deadlines and allocate time for focused, deep work.

✅ Schedule downtime intentionally – Rest and recovery are essential. Blocking out time for non-work activities can improve overall productivity and prevent burnout.

✅ Manage quieter periods proactively – Have a BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement) by engaging in high-quality, non-client work like research, thought leadership or professional development to maintain momentum.

✅ Avoid common mistakes – Over-servicing clients, failing to build buffer time, and neglecting self-care can all lead to stress and inefficiency. Learning to set boundaries is key.

✅ Follow a structured approach – Regularly review commitments, plan the week ahead, and reflect and adjust to maintain a sustainable workflow.

By adopting these strategies, HE consultants can manage their time more effectively, maintain their professional wellbeing, and ensure long-term success in their consultancy practice.

Links to Relevant Resources

• KHL Consulting Website: www.khlconsulting.co.uk

• LinkedIn Profile for Karen Heard-Lauréote: www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl

• Network for Educational Enhancement Consultants: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14409504/

  
  

  Calls to Action

  • Subscribe and Share: If you enjoyed this episode or found series one helpful, please subscribe and share it with your network.

  • Connect on LinkedIn: I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s podcast, so feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn.

  • Look Out for Series 2: Episode 2: We’ll be back in February with episode 2. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it!