Getting Started in Consulting, Third Edition

Chapter 11. The Quick Start: How to Hit the Consulting Ground Running at Full Speed

This chapter is intended as a turbocharged start for those of you seeking to enter the consulting profession both rapidly and effectively. It is not meant for people easing in while they hold current jobs, nor for those considering a part-time focus. It is designed for those who have carefully considered the profession, have read the prior chapters in this book, and who passionately seek a bold and focused entry.

I am using all appropriate resources as of this writing, in late 2008. Make sure you always investigate current trends and advances, particularly in technology, alliances, and global potential. Unfortunately, I cannot travel around updating each copy of the book every month, although some past readers evidently expect that!

Ideally, the people who will best profit from the approaches described in the following list will have these characteristics:

• A minimum of six months of basic living and professional expenses put aside in readily available funds.

• Full-time focus on entering the profession with minimum distractions.

• Access to resources who can accelerate the process (for example, designers, printers, equipment suppliers, lawyers, and so forth).

• Prudent risk takers who are willing to move forward when 80 percent ready and fine-tune the remaining 20 percent as needed.

• A willingness to step out of traditional comfort zones and work hard at using new skills and behaviors.

• The abiding belief that they ...