Consultant Spotlight: Melissa Cothran

Favorite part of being a consultant?

Seeing different perspectives. As an employee of a company, there was always a “standard” way to do things. Being a consultant, I get to experience a variety of “standard practices” and expand my knowledge and perspective.

What is the secret to managing a successful proposal?

Constant communication! When I manage proposals, I probably spend 75% of my time communicating to ensure expectations are aligned. It’s the only way I’ve found to make certain everyone is connected and working toward the same goal.

Any tips for writing a winning proposal?

Take the time to understand the solution before you start writing. When people (writers or otherwise) don’t understand the solution, the chance the writing is clear, succinct, and compelling is slim.

Biggest proposal pet peeve?

When people over complicate or over engineer a solution or a process; it detracts from progressing forward and reduces the overall effectiveness of the team.

Where was your last vacation and what was the highlight of the trip?

San Diego. The highlight of that vacation was watching the joy on my children’s faces when they saw the ocean for the first time.

Do you have any hidden talents?

About a year ago, I started building furniture. So far, I’ve built my daughter a desk, my son a bed frame, and desk for myself. However, my to-do list is quite long!

If you could meet anyone in the world (dead or alive) who would it be and why?

Frank Lloyd Wright. I’ve always admired the simple lines of his architecture that were so well thought out and designed to work with their surroundings.