After years of working in a particular sector, one may want a change of scene. It may also be that one wants to still work in the same sector but work more flexible or shorter hours. Starting a consulting business is one practical way to achieve the above ideals. Your question however may be how to get off the ground of your consulting business?
Step 1:
The first step is to decide which exact sector you want to consult in. Perhaps you have worked as a fashion buyer for clothing stores or managed them. You can consult in personal image. Or, create a niche and be a bridal consultant. Say you have worked as a financial advisor in a bank. You can consult for individuals or even small businesses.
Ensure that you have the right credentials. Clients will check for them. If you wish to take a complete detour from what you have been doing previously doing, get relevant qualifications. You can conveniently do this by taking part time, online and distance learning courses.
When you have the first two settled, decide on a mode of operation. Depending on which area you wish to practice in, you will need to get office space, for example if you consultant on finances and clients will be coming to you. If you are just starting out and do not have a large amount to spend on setting up, create a home office. This should preferably be separate from the home, such as in the garage, to give you and your clients privacy. Otherwise, you can choose to make visits to your clients, for example if you are an image consultant.
Step 2:
The next step would be to decide on a schedule. Choose the hours you will be available and which days of the week you will work. Clients will need this information to know how to reach you.
Put this information on business stationery like business cards. Get all your other stationery too, like letterheads, complimentary slips and other items. Along with this, decide on signage. Clients need to know where to find you and all those who pass by and see the sign are prospective clients.
Step 3:
Lastly, you want to launch with a bang. If possible, organize a party. If you will be working from home or in the neighborhood, get together the neighbors for a short party, serve some snacks and talk to them about it. Adverts also help.
Target them, for instance in relevant magazines and regional newspapers. Online ads are also far reaching, cheap and effective. Put up notices and posters in busy shopping malls as well.
