Here's how you can master the key skills required for freelance consulting.

Becoming familiar with and highlighting your strengths, is of significance to success as a freelance consultant. There are a range of ways to do this; Ask people who know you in different contexts for objective feedback (colleagues, friends, family) Take a strengths assessment eg Gallup Book a session with a coach to draw out your superpowers. Then recognise how these strengths can support your potential clients.

Market research is useful to learn more about the industry and discover untapped possibilities and opportunities to stand out. Cavet: do not allow competitors' price-points impact your own fees.

The market is the key essence of every business organisation. For me, having the experience of dealing with high family income, mid-tier income & lower income groups of buyers, there are obviously marked/distinct differences. On-ground & hands-on experiences, over years, will enable a consultant to give suggested workable solutions or perspectives to the CEOs as markets steer revenue-generation performance.

If you are in it for the long-term, personal branding is a n element of your business that you'll need to pay attention to. Most people think your brand applies only to 1 business or sector. What if you change career path? No problem. Because it's a PERSONAL brand, you take and apply your reputation and track record wherever you go. Focus on showcasing your skills, unique perspectives, success and learning stories and watch your reputation build over time.

As a freelancer, relationships will be the foundation of your practice and a key driver in growth. Do an exceptional job and your clients won't be able to NOT recommend you to others. Raise your standards with each client in your professionalism, skill-set and mindset.

You are responsible for your time and energy so being aware of how you utilise them is key. You'll need to prioritise rest as well as work so having an organised and balanced schedule will ensure you stay a high performer for yourself and as a model to your clients.

What I have to say doesn't fit in the sections above, and may upset a few people, but let me start by pointing out that the advice you give to a client comes with consequences. Bad advice can destroy a business, and remember many SMEs in particular are shackled to the personal assets of the owners. Get it wrong and the effects can be far reaching both financially and personally. How do you know your advice is sound, practical and implementable. How do you know if you are trading long-term sustainable growth for short term gain? If you've never owned a business how can you possibly advise others. Most of the learning comes from the fail and reset process. If you haven't lived it then don't say it. Treat every client's business as your own.