Consultant Qualifications

A consultant is an expert, so it's typical to have a great deal of experience in the niche you want to work in.Work experience makes it easy to point to concrete results and client outcomes. If you have a proven track record that potential clients can trust, you'll be better able to close consulting contracts.

The most common way to get this practical experience is through employment. While many aspiring consultants aim for a job at the "Big Four" that's not the only way to get the experience you need.

Regardless of the niche the consultant works in or the specific arrangement they've made with the client, there are a few things a consultant must do well:

• Work with stakeholders to set goals for the relationship.
• Learn the existing processes and systems in an organization.
• Perform analysis and diagnose issues.
• Translate data into concrete action items.
• Communicate effectively to multiple stakeholders.
• Oversee and track results.
• Be able to convey impact.