Creating A Consulting Portfolio

The job of business consultants is to offer advice and direction on numerous subjects. Based on the amount of expertise the consultant, they can cover a pretty wide range of different specialties. Being a freelance or independent consultant, they can help others get their client's businesses started, grow, and diversify. By consulting a professional that is in high demand in the industry clients can find out what they need to be doing, goals that they need to create, and ways that they can invest in their start-up to get it off the ground. Here are a few ways a new consultant can get their portfolio started.

Online Startups

Most businesses have a substantial online presence, and many operate online. An effective online marketing campaign is an essential tool for any consultant hoping to create a customer base. Start with dedicated social media accounts to generate interest and connect with prospective clientele. Targeted ad spending is an affordable way to uncover a potential new customer base. Short video tutorials or testimonials from existing customers can encourage new business relationships.

Establish Value

Creating a viable consulting portfolio is contingent on having a particular skill set or service application. Competition in the freelance and consulting arenas can be fierce, and consumers are always looking for value. A viable consulting menu should contain evidence of exceptional customer service and impactful results. For newcomers to a particular field or industry, consultants must ensure that their services have competitive prices. Ongoing market research will ensure that costs are within expected guidelines based on experience and results.

Customer Referrals

Despite an overwhelming number of e-Marketing platforms and the number of leads they generate, word-of-mouth advertising still far outpaces any other media for reaching new customers. Referrals from existing customers account for over 25% of new business within the first several years of any new consulting business. The first step in gaining referrals is to ensure that they satisfy clients with consulting services rendered. The relationship is in good standing, and customers believe they achieved satisfactory results at a fair price; they are more than willing to share their experience with friends and neighbors.

Even a small consulting gig can lead to many more and more significant opportunities. Employment coaches and business consultants often perform contractual work to round out their repertoire and create residual income streams to cushion their retirement savings. These first few tips will help those preparing to develop a consulting portfolio and start earning additional income.