Insights
The team at This Friday has lived and breathed professional services for many years.
Our insights are snapshots of what we’ve learned from the challenges and opportunities we’ve faced and how our experience can help build your business.
Hope isn't a goal
If your development conversations keep covering the same ground year after year, the problem isn't commitment. It's that the goal conversation never really happened. Julie Scardamaglia explains what it takes to set goals that stick.
When online just isn't on
While online learning works well for short technical updates, programs focused on leadership, behavior change, or peer learning are fundamentally undermined by a virtual format. The real value lies in side conversations, shared experiences, and a facilitator's ability to read and respond to the room.
You don't need more BD meetings, you need better ones
The problem often with business development isn't effort - it's what we're measuring. When firms count meetings, professionals perform for the metric. Activity gets mistaken for achievement, and genuine client insight never happens. Read why quality beats quantity every time in business development, and what firms and professionals can do to make the shift.
Are your best clients your right clients for 2026?
Most professionals can name their 'best' clients in seconds. But ask them if those are the right clients for next year and most realise they've never actually decided. As the year winds down and the professional services world shifts into holiday mode, there's finally time to take a break. But this downtime is also one of the most valuable business development opportunities of the year.
Dragging your arse to the end of the year?
Can’t bear to think of 2026 until 2025 is over? If the team strategy session is just one of many things clogging your December To Do list, Renee Taylor and Julie Scardamaglia can explain why January is the time to do it. And how to do it, too.
Networking...not working?
As the festive drinks season approaches, some face it with dread. At the busiest time of the year, it’s just another thing on the list with little reward. Renee Taylor explains why your networking may not be working and what you can do about it.
The DOs, DON’Ts, and WHYs of video
While modern technology makes video creation seem easy - anyone can prop up a phone and hit record - effective video requires strategic planning to deliver real value. Success depends on knowing your video's purpose, crafting a clear message, and adapting your approach to the platform. What appears simple actually demands careful consideration.
Wellbeing - are we treating symptoms or the cause?
What will your workplace do for Mental Health Month this October? Cupcakes? A special yoga class? A one-off massage? Workplace specialist Julie Scardamaglia explains why our current approach to wellbeing means we may never find it.
You are your personal brand
In the fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in thinking marketing is simply posting one idea after another on social media without a clear direction. To truly succeed in achieving marketing objectives, a solid strategy that defines your goals and how to achieve them is essential before jumping to tactics.