What do you do if you're considering a career transition to consulting in Facilities Engineering?

1 Assess Skills

Before diving into the consulting world, take stock of your skills and experience. Facilities Engineering is multifaceted, so pinpoint your areas of expertise. Are you more knowledgeable in energy management, building automation systems, or perhaps in the design of mechanical systems? Understanding your strengths will help you market yourself effectively to potential clients. Moreover, consider any gaps in your skill set that may need addressing. As a consultant, you'll be expected to provide high-level advice, which may require brushing up on the latest industry standards or software used in Facilities Engineering.

2 Build Network

Networking is crucial in the consulting business. Start by connecting with former colleagues and professionals within the industry. Attending conferences, joining professional associations, and participating in online forums can also expand your network. Remember, the relationships you build can lead to referrals and opportunities. It's not just about who you know; it's also about who knows you and your capabilities. Make it known that you're transitioning to consulting and are available for projects. Your professional network can be an invaluable asset in finding your first clients.

3 Set Goals

Clear goals will guide your transition into consulting. Decide on the types of projects you want to work on and the clients you aim to serve. Are you targeting local businesses, multinational corporations, or perhaps public sector institutions? Also, consider your income expectations and how many hours you're willing to work. This will influence the size and scope of the projects you accept. Setting tangible goals will help you measure your progress and make necessary adjustments along the way. It's important to be realistic but also ambitious in your goal-setting.

4 Understand Market

Knowing the market is key to succeeding as a consultant in Facilities Engineering. Research who needs your services and what specific problems they face that you can solve. It's also beneficial to understand the going rates for consulting services in your area of expertise. This will help you price your services competitively and fairly. Keep an eye on industry trends and potential regulatory changes that may affect your clients. Being well-informed will not only help you provide better services but also establish you as a thought leader in your field.

5 Legal Setup

Ensure you have the legal aspects of your consulting business in order. This includes deciding on a business structure, such as sole proprietorship or limited liability company (LLC), and registering your business if necessary. You'll also need to understand the tax implications of self-employment and possibly hire an accountant. Additionally, consider purchasing liability insurance to protect yourself in case of professional errors or accidents. Taking care of these details upfront will prevent legal headaches down the road and allow you to focus on your consulting work.

6 Marketing Plan

Finally, develop a marketing plan to attract clients. This could involve creating a professional website, developing business cards, and using social media to showcase your expertise. Consider writing articles or giving presentations on Facilities Engineering topics to demonstrate your knowledge and value. Your marketing efforts should communicate what makes you unique and why clients should choose you over competitors. A well-thought-out marketing plan will make it easier for potential clients to find and remember you when they need Facilities Engineering consulting services.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?