For somebody who works as a Small Business Counselor but without a brick and mortar business to boot, I have been asked several times why I don’t have a business of my own. The answer is simple, I am my own business and my greatest asset is myself — my knowledge, skills, experience and network.
Consulting is also a business but instead of a product, you are offering a service. Just like an entrepreneur, a consultant also needs to continuously enhance knowledge and skills, not necessarily from the four corners of the classroom.
There are several ways to improve yourself as a consultant/professional. Here are my top 3 choices.
1. Go back to school – you can’t learn everything in a classroom but it will surely boost your resume. A modular classes are common these days but in my opinion, a classroom setting is better. It provides more interaction among students which facilitates more exchange of ideas and knowledge.
2. Be a member of a civic/professional organization – expand your network by joining civic groups and professional organizations. You may have to pay a minimal membership and annual fees but it is very rewarding. You get to network with individuals who share your interests and may also provide you with prospective clients. Trainings and seminars are usually conducted by these groups as a minimal fee for members.
3. Read voraciously – reading keeps you updated on the latest news and trends. A wide reader never goes out of anything to say in conversations. Just avoid being too opinionated as this has the tendency to give out the wrong impression.
As a consultant, you cannot give what you do not have so you should equip yourself with the tools of your trade. As they say, education is a lifelong process so never stop learning.
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