Why Consulting?

Part of this blog experiment is to provide an outlet for some of the thoughts I randomly have. I think the act of writing about them forces me to think through them, validate them to myself, and learn how to articulate them to others. This is one of those concepts…

Even though I’m in HR these days, and do very little project work, I still love the business of consulting, whether it be technology, HR, public health, business, or some other subject area. When I’m talking to students who are contemplating a career, I try and pass on some of my enthusiasm for a career in consulting. So, why consulting?

1. You get to test yourself
Sure, anyone can start a business, market their services, charge an hourly rate, and label themselves a consultant. People will constantly ask, “what do you do again?” and they won’t be able to explain it. But, it takes a lot of courage to be a consultant, even when working for a good firm, since you have to put yourself out there and to a certain degree rely on your own instincts and abilities.

2. There is freedom
As a consultant, you get the freedom to reinvent yourself over and over. A popular theme these days, whether it is in business or career development, is being agile, flexible, and willing to make a lot of small mistakes while seeking success. Consultants can do that over and over; there is no predefined objective or end point; it truly is a journey. Some people find that thought produces insecurity; but, I find excitement and anticipation.

3. You get to help people that want help
Most of the times consultants are asked to help with a specific problem or need. If you’re successful in the engagement, they are happy and you feel good about your accomplishment. How great is that?? Imagine a job where people ask for your assistance, you help them, they thank you and pay you, and you feel great? Now that’s the kind of interaction I could make a career out of!

4. It is market driven
Recently, I saw a show on a cat whisperer… a cat consultant!! You can become a consultant in anything and the market will naturally validate your subject area and level of expertise. If there is no market for your services, you won’t be successful. Similarly, if you’re not very good, you won’t be successful… and you’ll have to find another subject area. See #1 and #2.

5. There is challenge and reward
Everybody has different motivators and consulting lets you drive toward your highest and most personal ones. For example, if you’re good you can drive toward maximum money; or, you can “reinvest” and drive toward more challenging and interesting projects. Maybe the great ones make lots of money AND do really interesting projects… but, it is pretty hard to serve two masters. For me, making a decent living and being able to work on cutting edge projects and help solve interesting problems is the most exciting part of consulting and ultimately what I seek.

I’m a consultant. While I might not be able to tell you exactly what it is I do, I can try and tell you why I love what I do. And, loving what you do is a very good thing.