Consultancy – Have you always wanted to start your own consultancy? Not sure where to start? The good news is that starting a consultancy can be as easy as choosing a specialization, building your expertise, setting your rates, and finding your first client. In fact, depending on the type of consultant you are to become, there are very few rules governing most consulting industries so the time it takes to go from zero to having your own consultancy is shorter than you think.
1. Choosing a specialization for your consultancy:
In general, the more specific your consultancy is the easier it will be to make a name for yourself and identify potential clients. If you are unsure of what type of consultancy you should start, consider working through a guide or workbook that is designed to help you hone in on the perfect consultancy for you.
2. Setting consultancy rates:
Setting rates is both an art and a science. Learn more about setting the right rates in this comprehensive article on setting fees or for the fast-track, inside scoop get Consulting Fees: A Guide for Independent Consultants.
3. Expertise and your consultancy:
In order to start a consultancy you’ll need to be considered an expert in your industry. But don’t worry, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to have a graduate degree or even decades of experience. In fact, in order to start your consultancy you really just need more expertise than your clients have. Find out more about building your expertise here.
4. Finding clients for your consultancy:
Marketing and networking are key to building up your consultancy. But don’t worry, you don’t have to be a master socializer to succeed in marketing your consultancy. In fact, even if you’re introverted you can still succeed in networking on behalf of your consultancy.
Are you interested in starting your own consultancy but don’t know where to start? Check out the Consultant Journal store for a variety of resources, books and courses that will help you kick-start your journey to starting your own consultancy.
Related posts:
- How to become a consultant
- Why become a consultant?
- Should I become a consultant?
- Who hires consultants?
- Becoming a consultant FAQ
- I’ve decided. Now what?