Become an international development consultant issuue

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NADIA SERHANI-ELTOBGI, PHR LEADERSHIP , GLOBAL HR & HUMAN CAPITAL CONSULTANT

WASHINGTON DC nadia.serhani@gmail.com

Become the International Development Consultant everyone wants to hire The project-based nature of development work and the frequent need for

specific, short-term technical expertise make this sector ripe for a thriving

consultant base. Independent consultants play a large role in assisting NGOs, consulting firms and donor agencies in their activities, and striking out on your own can be a practical, and even lucrative, option if you’re seeking a flexible schedule or technical concentration. Last week (January 2015), together with membership group International Consultants Working for a Better World, Devex hosted a panel discussion on independent consulting to discuss some of the challenges and opportunities in branching out on your own. If you’re considering leaving a steady paycheck for the life of a consultant, here are four tips both recruiters and seasoned consultants advise: 1. Start planning your transition early - If you’re frustrated in your current job, the idea of quitting and starting out on your own may be tempting. However, make sure you take the time to plan out your transition. First, start saving. There will be expenses tied to becoming a consultant, such as building a website or attending seminars, and you will want to be in a stable financial position to weather the first few months when assignments may be scarce. You will also want to start building a network of potential clients, including getting a better sense of their needs. Most consulting assignments come via referrals and word of mouth. Before you quit your job, make sure you have some warm leads and are sure your expertise is actually sought after by organizations 2. Decide if you want to be a small business or an individual consultant - Some independent consultants form their own business and operate under a business name rather than as an individual.


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