Visibility with client Leadership

12 Comments

1. Alexis GladstoneMarch 25,2026 at 1:32PM UTC

   If the coworker you reference is internal to the owner's firm than while frustrating, it makes sense. They will always give visibility to those who work inside over external consultants.

   Unless it is critical to the success of the project I would "Let Them." If you feel you need to approach it with the owner, I would do it from the standpoint, that if the client leadership gets to know you, you can possibly be a point of contact for them and take some of the load off the owner.

2. AnonymousMarch 26,2026 at 12:01AM UTC

   Thank you ! Both of us are external consultants for the firm for which we provide consulting services.

3. GirlBossanova934974March 25,2026 at 3:21PM UTC

   I would ask to be included in the next meeting with the client so you can present your ideas etc...

4. AnonymousMarch 25,2026 at 5:24PM UTC

   "Let them..."

5. AnonymousMarch 25,2026 at 11:43PM UTC

   Amen!

6. AnonymousMarch 25,2026 at 5:30PM UTC

   Its a no win if you force the issue. At the end of the day both the Owner and her Co-Worker/ Friend are YOUR client. Period. Regardless of his lack of contribution or knowledge. THEY decide when to share with you and when they don't want to. Accept that the situation is completely not within your control. But your role is to stand back and only offer advice and expertise when called upon. No.matter what you think and how you want to be included and valued.

   So swallow your pride and let them and give up the FOMO. Eventually they will need your advice. The usual MO is the coworker will reach out without copying the Owner, solicit your expertise and then pass it off as their own. They will pick your brain and glean as much as they can, then they sit it back and provide you with directions on your own advice. Owning the results in the end with both Owner and outside client. Its brilliant but if you don't play along it tends to backfire.

   Don't play with this and include the Owner ( and when appropriate, the outside client) on all communication. When calls and texts are the connection, respond with a summary in writing copying the Owner and Coworker in an email. Be specific. "Just circling back on our conversation this morning regarding xyz.....my advice is abc but am available if you'd like to discuss further as I plenty of experience regarding this subject. I'm always happy to help". Be specific, own your expertise but don't beg to be heard. Just thrown it out there.

   If you allow your feelings to get hurt you will let this get the best of you. Accept your position as CONTRACTOR. Act accordingly.

   Hang back and allow things to start to implode. Then swoop in and save the day when it's clear who's expertise was the saving grace. You are not a shadow figure. Be seen but only when called upon in front of the Owner.

7. AnonymousMarch 25,2026 at 11:59PM UTC

   You nailed exactly what takes place. I read your advice multiple times. Love the strategy! Give up the FOMO! my new mantra. Peace.... OVER. control and comparison.......Appreciate your input!

8. AnonymousMarch 27,2026 at 7:12PM UTC

   Its sad but never share all your knowledge. Give them just enough to have a top level understanding. Hold the rest close to the vest. Leave them needing more but not knowing they need more details. I know it sounds like a game but I look at it as strategic. You wont ever get asked to the meeting if you hand over the game plan.

9. AnonymousMarch 28,2026 at 8:28PM UTC

   Timing is perfect... Have a scheduled call with the owner and the coworker to discuss how to respond to a request for a report from Leadership at our client. I know exactly what should be included in the report and how to deliver a Summary for excecutive Leadership.. She will pick my brain... then have the the coworker prepare report and possiblly be on a call with Leadership.. (eventhough he has no clue how to obtain the information and prepare the report).. Should I divulge all the details.... and just LET THEM and give up the FOMO?

10. AnonymousMarch 28,2026 at 11:26PM UTC

    If you want to hand the coworker the keys to the kingdom go ahead and provide a comprehensive road map and let them take the glory. Divulge away :?

11. AnonymousMarch 26,2026 at 4:43PM UTC

    I take "Let Them" in this case to mean "Let them show you who they are; respond accordingly.

    I don't think, though, there's anything to be gained by highlighting the issue.

    I'm so sorry you've been so poorly treated.

12. AnonymousMarch 27,2026 at 4:12PM UTC

    Thank you... nothing gained ... agree!