Work today looks hugely different than it did just a few years ago. There are many options for pursuing your passion, work is often completed in defined projects, and for many businesses it is cost and resource efficient to outsource work. This shift has intersected with the underlying revolution of American workers in search of greater control of their destiny, and the desire to do work aligned with their passion and expertise. From our State of Independence in America study, we know that the cataclysmic workforce shifts of the past decades have fuelled a new kind of productivity, wealth, and personal growth opportunity for American workers and companies. We also know that the majority of those who choose to pursue self-employment are very satisfied and plan to continue working as an independent.
While it is exciting to take control of your career path, lifestyle and income, there are also many questions surrounding how to become a consultant. What steps should you take to prepare? What do you need to start an independent business? How do you leave your employer? Successful independent professionals come from all walks of life, but they share a common trait of being planners. They are savvy professionals who do their research, ask good questions and work towards their goals. Deciding to go independent involves thinking through many aspects of how self-employment will affect your life from preparing financially to considering how you will handle benefits, retirement savings, and childcare management. Look for real-life advice and references before taking the leap.
Before I give you the tips, you must understand that everyone has different path to transition, if path X is beneficial for person A it is not true that it will be successful with person B as well. Like I have already said deciding to go independent involves thinking through many aspects of how self-employment will affect your life from preparing financially to considering how you will handle benefits, retirement savings, and childcare management. Here are the tips:
1. Review your traits and skills: When you are considering self-employment, assess your readiness by examining some of the common traits of successful independents:
I. An identifiable, sellable talent
II. Tenacity and resiliency
III. Confidence in your abilities
IV. Focus
V. Integrity
VI. Networking skills
2. Financially prepare: Before you make the transition, it is critical to have a plan for your finances. You should either:
1. Have a project you will be able to start, that will bring immediate cash flow, or
2. Have a cushion that will cover you until you begin to generate income.
You should have at least a three-month cushion but may require more depending on your industry. Be realistic about when you can expect income.
3. Evaluate insurance plans: Assess how you will protect yourself, your family, your business, and your retirement. Find out the costs associated with health, life, and business insurances.
4. Create a marketing plan: Be conservative with your spending. There is no need to make investments in office space, logos, or branding at the beginning. Reputation, your network, a services brochure, and maybe a white paper is all you will need to get started.
5. Find mentors and advisors: Trusted advisors or mentors can provide valuable guidance and feedback on your plan. Find someone who has taken the journey with whom you feel comfortable speaking. A mentor can help you test, and refine your plan, practice your messaging, and give you the confidence you need to move forward in your independent career.
6. Consider starting part-time: The optimal situation is to test independence while still employed. If your schedule allows consulting on the side, and you are not violating your employment contract, moonlighting, or working on a part time basis can help smooth your transition to an independent career.
7. Write a business plan: A formal business plan is always a good idea, but at the very least you should have a roadmap that will help you navigate the journey. Have a 12-month and 3-year plan for both a short-term and long-term perspective.
8. Research your industry: Research your industry to discover what is in demand. This will help you to develop a service menu that meets the needs of your market. Learn market rates—both bill and pay rates to gain an understanding of the potential for compensation.
9. Decide how to leave your current job: Make sure that you are mentally and financially able to leave and have an alternative plan ready to go. Do not risk your current employment by having the conversation too early. Go into the exit conversation committed to your decision to leave. Before you resign, do your legal and policy research. It is important to know what documents you signed and how they impact your transition. For example, non-competes are quite common in employment contracts.
Besides if you do have any questions give me a call: https://clarity.fm/joy-brotonath