With a vast network of consultants, we see the opportunity available to freelancers every day — especially in our today’s digital world. In recent years, the job climate has shifted, and many have started to create their own way through freelancing in the face of uncertain times. While there are pros and cons to every type of career path, we choose to look at the bright side, and here are six advantages of being a consultant in 2023 from our perspective of working with freelancers closely.
1. Flexibility to Create Your Schedule
One of the most significant advantages of being a consultant is the flexibility to create your schedule. You have control over your time, and you can choose when and where (and who!) you work. This level of freedom is particularly useful if you have other commitments or prefer to work at different times of the day. However, if you are adjusting from a 9-to-5 to working by yourself at home, here are a few tips to successfully transition to a virtual environment:
- Have a designated workspace.
- Take breaks.
- Make lists.
There may be an ebb and flow with your client commitments based on the length of the project, but you have complete management over them based on your capacity and lifestyle!
2. Diverse Industry Experience Consultants
Freelancing with clients from various industries gives you experience with different work environments, cultures, and ways of doing things. This diversity can help you develop a broader perspective, improve your problem-solving skills, and enhance your ability to adapt to different situations. It can also help you determine what industries you enjoy working within if you’d like to niche down the kinds of industries you specialize in.
The consultants in our network have the opportunity to connect with many different industries from finance, social networking, technology, pharmaceuticals, automotive, and eCommerce. Based on our client needs and consultant expertise, we align talent to each opportunity which results in a win-win for all.
3. High Earning Potential Consultants
Depending on the consistency of consultant opportunities, you typically have a higher earning potential than those in traditional jobs. This is because you can charge hourly or project-based fees, which can be significantly higher than a salaried position. Additionally, as you gain more consultant experience and become an expert in your field, you can charge more for your services.
4. Personal Development Consulting
With each job experience comes the opportunity to grow! Freelancing offers numerous opportunities for your personal development. Working with clients in different industries and situations helps you develop your skills, including communication, problem-solving, and project management. Additionally, consultants often attend training sessions, workshops, and conferences to keep their skills up to date. Here are a few of our favorite resources to encourage personal development for consultants:
5. Autonomy and Control Consultants
Not only do you have the flexibility to create your schedule, but you also have autonomy and control over your work, projects, and clients. You can choose which projects you take on, who you work with, and how you work. This level of independence allows you (the consultant!) to work in a way that suits your strengths and preferences, which can lead to a higher quality of work and job satisfaction. Worried that more work also means longer hours? Read our blog post, 3 Life Hacks for Working with Multiple Clients (Hint: The answer ISN’T longer hours).
6. Entrepreneurial Opportunities Consulting
Consulting also provides numerous entrepreneurial opportunities. As a consultant, you can use your skills and experience to start a consulting business, where you can offer your services to clients on your own terms. You can also use your industry knowledge to start a new business, leveraging your expertise to gain a competitive advantage.
BONUS: Join a consultant network
Like ttcInnovations! Based on your talent and expertise, we align you with opportunities to work with our clients (most are Fortune 500!). Joining a network like ttcInnovations can expose you to bigger opportunities you may not encounter operating as a single freelancer. This is perfect for building your resume and diversifying your portfolio, as well as working in corporate environments while maintaining your sense of autonomy as a freelancer. Learn more about joining our network below!
#UnlockInnovation With Us
• Collaborative and supportive network
• Work with L&D industry influencers
• Access to professional development
• Flexible hours and virtual environment
While freelancing may not be for everyone, there are many perks that come with pursuing a career as a consultant. Without committing to a full-time role, there are also many ways to create consistent income for added stability — one being to join a network that can connect you to opportunities! This will likely widen your net and allow opportunities to come to you as you enjoy the other perks that come along with working as a freelancer. Consulting is a challenging yet rewarding career path that offers endless opportunities for personal and professional growth.
