Becoming a Business Consultant

By: Jason Petrina



Today, more and more people are looking for ways they can branch out on their own and become self-employed. One of the most popular avenue for many people is the field of business consultants. With the right amount and type of experience, business consultants can provide a lucrative service.

Usually, one of the most important pre-requisites to becoming a business consultant is possessing a certain amount of unique knowledge or experience. With that said, it’s not always necessary that you possess a college degree. A number of very successful business consultants have opened very successful consulting firms based on experience they gained in the ‘real’ world of work. Certainly, a degree can help you to establish the fact that you have the required knowledge of the field, but it’s definitely not a requirement. You only need to be able to prove that you are, in effect, an expert. If your own prior experience and success can speak for itself, then you’re one step closer to becoming a business consultant.

When considering opening your own consulting firm, there are a few different options open to you. If you are concerned that your new business won’t be immediately successful, you may wish to start off slowly and offer your services on a part-time basis only. This gives you the option of keeping your current job, and pay, while exploring your options as a business consultant. Individuals who are more daring and aggressive may wish to put everything on the line and go ahead and open a full-time business. One other option you might wish to consider would be finding a job with an existing consulting firm. This gives you the opportunity to gain experience as a consultant, establish your expertise and take advantage of a secure income.

While considering whether you would rather open your own business in the beginning or work for someone else, one of the factors you should take into consideration is whether you feel you have the skills necessary to market your skills to prospective businesses and clients. You may well have the experience necessary to become a great consultant, but if you do not also have some basic knowledge of marketing, then you may find it difficult to stay in business.

As a consultant, you will also need a portfolio, so it’s a good idea to get started on that as soon as you can. A portfolio can take on many different forms. One of the most traditional portfolios is a leather bound book containing samples of your prior work; however, this is definitely not the only way you can present your experience. Other ideas include electronic portfolios your prospective clients can view online as well as DVDs with examples of your work. Regardless of which type of portfolio you choose, it’s also a good idea to include a resume listing your experience and skills. As your business and experience continues to grow and expand, be sure to update both your portfolio and resume accordingly.



Jason Petrina is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - www.articleclick.com