If you’ve lost your job or are considering a change, you should think about consulting as an alternative (if this is not already your occupation).
There are several ways you can approach consulting as a career alternative – as an independent (working as a contractor for a consulting firm or directly for a client) or as a direct employee of a consulting firm. I’ll review leads for both alternatives and some very high level pros and cons for each.
Independent Consulting Contractor
- Pros: Allows independence as to clients and assignments you take. The per hour pay tends to be higher for independent contractors. You develop direct relationships with your clients which can be leveraged into additional assignments and introductions to other potential clients. Some expenses related to your role as an independent may be tax deductible (speak to your Accountant). Lastly, this can be a viable short term alternative while you are looking for permanent full time employment if consulting is not your long term career goal.
- Cons: You may have gaps in assignments which will create gaps in billable hours ($). You must find your own clients or sub-contract with a third party consulting firm. Your benefits are not covered, so you will need to pay for these yourself. Vacations are not paid.
Direct Consulting Employee
- Pros: Gives you the full backing of a consulting firm. Less pressure regarding assignments as these should be scheduled by your firm. Full benefits (generally) as well as paid vacation. Upside potential for increased bonus for additional assignments/work identified.
- Cons: Less control over assignments, pay is likely to be lower than an independent.
Consulting Firms:
- Accenture - Accenture is a well known, highly respected consulting firm. Accenture careers – click here
- Boston Consulting Group - Also a very well known and highly respected consulting firm. The link (click here) is to their career page which also includes background on the company.
Independent Consulting:
- Sologig - This website provides leads/potential assignments for freelance (independent) contractors and consultants. Similar to job search sites, this is a clearing house of assignments for both employers and contractors.
- Consulting/Freelance - Extensive About.com website which provides resources for independent consultants and freelancers. Site includes a wide range of information on how to get started, what you need (rates, taxes, contracts, etc.). This is an excellent resource for those who are just getting started in freelancing as well as already established freelancers.
I will add these links to “Other Resources” in the next few days.
Good luck in your search!
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The consulting market in the United States is highly fragmented. In addition to the large players there are literally thousands of smaller niche players, with either an industry, geographic or technology focus. Some of these also have an excellent reputation. However, they can be hard to identify. One useful source you may want to take a look at for consulting jobs is The Consulting Bench. At present it is in its early stages of growth, but should continue to be a useful source for consulting jobs in the future.