You're considering working as a consultant. What are the benefits over full-time employment?

When I was an employee I contracted lots of consultants. The ones I kept re- hiring were those who told me the truth - not pulling any punches. That's what I wanted because we’d get there faster from reality than we perceived position. These people had a full diary of projects! So when I became a consultant I did the same and quickly found I was in far more demand than many I'd met. Being truly independent is not only an advantage but you'll never be out of work. So don't compromise - I didn't and still won't. It's what I'm known for - another advantage!

My number one gripe is a micro-manager! Working as a consultant immediately mitigates this problem. It’s a strong, responsible, independent workers dream ??

Flexibility and autonomy require discipline as well. Since you choose (not always) the projects it is relevant how able you are to manage the time and resources to deliver on time high quality work. Additionally at the beginning you might not even be choosing the projects but working on the ones coming up to get you started.

As a consultant, I had the freedom to move from contract to contract, provided objectives are achieved, that allowed me to pick and choose the projects or clients I worked. Also, with proven results, always review your fees / terms between places / contracts.

Consulting allows me the opportunity to explore diverse ways to utilize my experience and expertise to impact the industry that I have been devoted to for over 30 years. It has allowed me to step outside the box for personal growth, professional growth and share my passions for what I do.

Having the opportunity to work on a various projects encourages you to utilize a variety of skills on each project. This can keep you excited and out of the monotonous or tedious routines that can lead to burnout. There are sometimes when the challenge becomes so difficult that you call on your colleagues to get their opinion and perspective on a situation that allows for more learning, skill building, and better service. Through all of this, reflection during these challenging times will benefit your overall evolvement as a consultant.

This is heavily depending on the country you decide to operate, which is likely the one you live in and where your center of vital interests is.

I feel that some people leave their corporate jobs to "start their own business" when they feel they've gained enough experience in their field. The problem is this: having great experience in your field just isn't enough to make your own business a success. Most people don't realize how difficult growing your own business actually is, or how much business acumen you really need! In many ways, knowing what I know about my field came second (at least when starting out) to understanding how to create and operate a successful business. I spoke to someone a while back who said, "I can't believe starting my own business is a full-time job!" This shocked me: of course it is!