In the first place, take some time to consider what your options are going to be when it comes to advertising. Remember that having a webpage is extremely important, and if it is appropriate, you should also think about putting up a blog. When it comes to advertising, one of the first things that you should do is make it as personal as possible. People need to think that they are dealing with someone who is real, and with a blog, establishing yourself as a real person is very easy. Consider how likely you are to talk to someone whom you know and how likely you are to talk to someone about whom you know.
When you are setting up your consulting job, remember that you should always think about making connections. Talk to everyone and network like crazy. You never know who is going to get you a job, and through what set of weird relationships, so take some time and really think about how you treat someone. Remember that you should always listen to as many people as you can, and even if you have to give them a no, give it with explanations; and if you can't help them, refer them to someone who can. This is a big part of what can make you a good person to connect with, and if you believe in karma, you'll find that this is one situation where it really works.
When you finally do have employment, take some time to review good and bad behavior with regards to it. There are a number of different things that you need to consider when you are looking at getting the right kind of jobs. Never take on anything that you think you can't handle, no matter how big the pay off might be. If you don't think that you can do it, politely decline and try directing them towards someone who can help them. Take some time and really consider what your limits are going to be. Your reputation can suffer immensely if you fall down on the job, so always make sure that the job you take is well within your capabilities. It is very important to keep this in mind that a correct assessment of your abilities can go a long way towards giving you the right results.
When you are looking to make the most out of your consultant job you should always be as prompt as you can. Remember that in many ways reliability goes a lot farther than brilliance. If you can constantly deliver a good quality work within the deadline you are going to find yourself often requested and in a place from where you can keep moving ahead. Keep your clients as updated as they need to be, and be honest. It goes a long way if you tell them that there are going to be problems and if you can help them get through it well.
Also keep in mind the fact that you should follow up. Ask your clients how satisfied they were with your service. There are lots of different things that you will get to know when you ask for feedback, and in addition to this, you will find that it can make your clients feel honored and valuable. Take some time and make sure that you consider what your options should be when you are looking at getting feedback. There are plenty of ways in which you can get reviews, but remember that you should always seek their permission before you post them. Asking them is a good way to remind them that you exist and this can also help you pull in people through the use of testimonials. Asking for the feedback online ensures a timely response.
Consulting is something that can be scary, risky, and a little bit frightening at the beginning, but don't let this stop you. Keep some of the above rules of conduct in mind and you are going to find yourself in fine shape.
