Becoming A Consultant

It isn't easy to just jump on the consultant band-wagon. It will actually take laying some groundwork to make it happen.  It could prove to be helpful during times of extended unemployment and/or fewer job opportunities.  Let's face it, hiring is occurring, but probably not in the large numbers we would like to see. 

Sital Ruparelia's blog post from 6 Figure Career Management, looks at the three steps it will take to find consulting work:  Networking, Writing, Speaking.

The reason consulting might prove to be a strong option now, according to Ruparelia, is that employers have problems. 

    

 

"These problems require solutions and so create opportunities for solution providers in the form of consultants and interim managers to resolve in an efficient manner."

 

 

 

So true.  Layoffs have created overworked employees.  In many cases, gaping holes have been left in organizations.  In other instances, companies haven't been investing in themselves, they're in a holding pattern, waiting for the economy to recover.  This is not true in all industries and all companies, however. 

As you begin speaking with people, you will begin to hear of their company's woes.  Is there a way for you to help?  That's what you should be listening for.

Not everyone is cut out to be a consultant either.  It's a form of entrepreneurship.  You'll have to market yourself, face rejection, ie. have a thick skin. 

Find resources in your area to help you in developing your consulting business.  There are other consultants out there who will be glad to offer their advice to newbies.  In Rochester, NY, check out RPCN, (Rochester Professional Consultants Network) and BIC.  You may also find helpful resources nationally and locally on-line and at local offices at:

SCORE
SBDC
SBA

And some final words from Ruparelia's post:

"And here’s the bonus: In addition to helping you find your next consultancy project or  interim opportunity, these 3 strategies will strengthen your personal brand and significantly enhance your long term career prospects. All of which make you immune to future downturns."

Comments

[Career Sherpa]

Sital: Thanks you for the recommended reading! I hope this at least gets people thinking that it is an option! I truly enjoy your blog, you write about the issues that are so on target, even in the US.

[Sital]

Hannah,
Many thanks for the kind comments and link back to the article

As a further resource, your readers should should check out the book 'Getting Started In Consulting' by Alan Weiss

It's the very best resource out there to help new consultants turn the speaking, writing and networking into real consulting revenues

Sital

[Career Sherpa]

Yinka, thanks for your agreement. Branding and marketing fall into play also. I believe these are your areas of interest, correct? Creating a brand and getting it "out there" is why the speaking, writing and networking work.

[yinka olaito]

speaking gives a persona a right platform to get feedback. So any opportunity in this regard is actually great, Networking and writing help too.