General Description: Do you have a specific business expertise that you could market to corporations on a project or freelance basis? Organizational development, information systems, healthcare and Internet marketing are just some of the areas of expertise that successful management consultants market to companies on a freelance basis.
Generally, consultants are either function specific (i.e., strategic planning, cost-management, etc.) industry specific (i.e., media, insurance, etc.) or a hybrid of both (i.e., strategic planning for the media industry).
As more and more companies outsource work that is not central to their core business, opportunities for independent consultants should continue to grow. Globalization and deregulation should also enhance the need for consultants with niche expertise and knowledge.
Options for Flexibility:
Consulting is notorious for long hours and excessive travel. However, some independent consultants are able to carve out a niche that enables them to do most of their work from home with minimal travel to local clients. For example, I know of a consultant who specializes in designing information systems for Jewish community centers. Another woman I know specializes in helping non-profits develop a more effective volunteer force. In both of these cases, their travel is minimal.
Consultants can charge by the hour, day or project. Depending on your specialty, hourly fees range from $100 per hour, to over $500 per hour and daily fees can range from $600 to over $4000 per day.
Resources for Further Exploration:
Association of Management Consulting Firms
The Institute of Management Consultants
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