Consult Your Way To Victory

With record-breaking layoffs and downsizing leaving millions without work, more and more every day, many are no longer looking endlessly for a job that they are unlikely to get and are beginning to consult instead. While not for everyone, this is a good solution for those with a wealth of expertise developed over years of experience in their industry.

Unfortunately, many of the positions for those with the most experience, strong relationships, knowledge of what works and what does not work of all kinds have been discarded. This is especially true for older, more experienced middle management types and yes, even upper management, as “downsize” is the rule and many must go. These people have a valuable asset worthy of marketing – deep experience and broad knowledge specific to an industry and the value is great.

Many of these people are opening themselves up to an entire new and different lifestyle. They are working by themselves out of their home office and reaping the benefits of a reduced schedule and a higher income. It is a new paradigm. They have become specialized independent consultants. Doing so, one can bill much higher and work fewer hours. The businesses benefiting from this relationship enjoys a lower out-of-pocket expense with no vacations, insurance, taxes, etc. to pay, and can control their investment getting exactly what they want and spending a fixed amount to get it. It’s a great deal for both sides.

It does take preparation, a solid presentation, self-promotion, commitment and tenacity but if you can swing that, you’re in business. Of course the Internet, a website, a blog, a video or two are all very affordable and very effective for marketing your services. Many consultants go right back to their original employee who laid them off and offer similar services on a less than full-time consulting basis. Companies who were competitors of your old employer might also value your insight, or smaller companies looking to break in to their field and on it goes.

For many, this is a better arrangement and less stressful than working full-time for one company. You must be committed and give it your best and it is not for everyone, but many are benefiting hugely from this strategy.