The Fractional Leader’s Playbook
I wish this book were around when I was a consultant. The fact that I didn’t know this term applied to me is disturbing. Not that I needed this title, but I needed this advice. Author Kellie Hinkle, CEO of Brightside Advisors, presents a compelling argument for why Fractional Leaders are key partners in helping organizations and businesses overcome roadblocks and disjointed thinking, ultimately leading them down a better path.
This book serves as a guide to innovative business management, showing how Fractional Leaders can and should leverage their expertise to help their clients achieve success. You may be one and don’t even know it, or you might find this role aligning with your strengths and need this well-written playbook to shepherd you along.
But what is a fractional leader anyway?
The author is clear in her definition—an experienced executive or subject matter expert who works with organizations on a part-time, time-bound, or project basis. It’s much like a consultant but has a deeper investment in the client’s results. In fact, one of the guidelines I appreciate most in this book is the notion that a fractional leader worth their salt will outline the results expected by working with them, then dig in and make those outcomes a reality. This is an integral element of a trusted partnership, often missing in inexperienced consultants who offer broad-brush outcomes.
Sounds like a perfect gig.
Before you think this is the most excellent way to make big bucks (and you will) and still have days off to go to the beach, there’s a lot required of someone to be successful in this role. Kellie challenges the reader to honestly assess their readiness with thought-provoking questions and harsh realities that accompany this business endeavor, including the legal, tax, timeclock, cyclical, and ‘tough love’ ramifications. On the other hand, fractional work involves exciting challenges, a vast cultural landscape, and a significant amount of control over one’s day and career future.
The Fractional Leadership Playbook is required reading for all entrepreneurs (there are many parallels), consultants, leaders, executives, subject matter experts, and those looking for a unique way to capitalize on their expertise in the marketplace.
Book and Image Courtesy of Kellie Hinkle
