At a certain point in my career, it’s clear to me that my only option is consulting.

Nancy Cincotta

October 23,2021 at 2:52PM UTC

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At a certain point in my career, it’s clear to me that my only option is consulting. I have one client I’m planning to sign this week ( fingers crossed). My last “employer” was technically a consulting agreement. So I guess, at 51, this is where my path is going. My question is, have any of you started a consultancy? Where have you found your clients? ( so far, people I used to work with have referred me, having seen my abilities and work ethic). I have to admit, it’s a bit scary, but the regular job market is so competitive. I’m up against hundreds of others for each job. Plus, I do like the autonomy. Anyone know any pitfalls to avoid? Advice from someone experienced in building a firm?

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Jacquelyn LloydOctober 23,2021 at 3:17PM UTC
Hi Nancy! Congratulations on taking the plunge! Consulting is excellent and, at times, scary - but that's where the growth comes. Network a ton and make offers to help. Create a great offer and make that offer ten times a week. You may only get 10% yeses, but you can learn from a great deal the no's. Is it the price, your offer, are you making your offer to the right person? Tweak those three variables - one at a time - until you start seeing yeses. Then you will have found your sweet spot. You can do it!
Alexis GladstoneOctober 23,2021 at 6:20PM UTC
Hi Nancy, welcome to the consulting world!
When I started I was lucky enough to work with a friend of mine who was already established with a company. I added a skill set he didn't have so it was a great win for the client.
When I started curating clients on my own, it was exactly what you are experiencing. People who I worked with/for/worked for me, who know me and what I can do for them. They brought me on to do work for them. They have also referred me to others though not as much as I would like!
Finally it's all about networking. Find as many avenues as you can to meet people. It takes time but some of it will definitely turn into new clients.
Good luck!
Lori CasoOctober 25,2021 at 12:41PM UTC
Hi Nancy, I used to be a partner in a PR business, granted our services extended beyond just consulting, but my biggest challenge was feeling too stretched with clients. My day didn’t have enough boundaries. Sometimes to fulfill an ask I’d be up until all hours…
Whereas I enjoyed the autonomy, a better fit for me was the one client option ( which is where I am now.)
If you can set a strict time schedule and create strong boundaries you’ll be fine… finding multiple clients was not an issue. Network, word of mouth, promoting the work you’ve done for clients through media platforms ( professional and social) should get you there. Good luck !
Nancy CincottaOctober 27,2021 at 6:05PM UTC
Thanks for your input, Lori. I had wondered what happens with multiple clients and scheduling. This is all so new (and a bit unexpected) for me. Was hiring help an option for you?
Lori CasoOctober 29,2021 at 12:32PM UTC
It was. We had a staff of 2, but having staff added a whole other layer of oversight ( time consuming) and of course, ate significantly into the profits. I don’t want to appear negative, this may prove to be an amazing venture for you!
Kirsten SchmittOctober 26,2021 at 5:45PM UTC
There is nothing like being your own boss and making your own hours. I left the corporate publishing world nearly three years ago to launch my own editing/writing business and haven't looked back since. No more performance reviews, endless meetings, or staff to manage. I have never been happier. Best of luck to you!