3rd June 2025
Lisa Colantuono on creating powerful client / agency partnerships
Episode 31
Lisa Colantuono
President, AAR Partners
Today’s guest is Lisa Colantuono, President of search consultancy, AAR Partners. With decades of experience and zero time for fluff, Lisa lays bare what agency searches should really be about – forging proper partnerships, not playing matchmaker.
Building on themes of trust and transparency, Lisa shares horror stories as well as best practice – including how new-business is never a numbers game, what great pitches look like, and why IRL counsel and feedback is so essential.
She also unpacks what the smartest agencies do differently – from demonstrating their expertise, to how they show up with real authenticity.
HIGHLIGHTS
[02:17] What search consultants really do
[08:49] Protecting both agencies and clients
[11:05] The critical elements of a pitch
[14:23] How to kill off spec work
[18:25] Saying no more than yes
[23:55] Fear makes agencies play small
[29:40] Beware the industry of rookies
[36:56] Better consultants mean better matches
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