When to Leave Your Job for Consulting: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring ISO Consultants
- Dec 8, 2024
- 6 min read
Making the decision to leave your job and dive into consulting is not one to be taken lightly.
For ISO professionals, consulting offers a unique blend of independence, flexibility, and opportunity - but it also comes with challenges.
Why Leave Your Job For Consulting?
Consulting appeals to ISO professionals for many reasons. Here are some common motivations:
Freedom and Flexibility
Working as a consultant allows you to set your own schedule, choose your projects, and even decide where you work. If the constraints of a traditional 9-to-5 are wearing you down, consulting can provide a refreshing change.
Financial Opportunity
Consulting can be highly lucrative. With your expertise, you’ll be able to command competitive rates, especially if you establish a reputation for delivering results.
Here's some post's i've written about the financial opportunities:
Diverse Work
Unlike a single corporate role, consulting exposes you to a variety of industries and challenges. If you love problem-solving and learning new things, consulting keeps the work fresh.
Building Your Own Brand
Consulting allows you to carve out a name for yourself. Whether you want to focus on ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or a niche area, you can develop your brand and gain recognition as an expert.
Legacy and Impact
Many consultants find satisfaction in helping businesses achieve their goals. Your work can leave a lasting impact, especially when helping clients improve their systems or achieve certifications.
Signs It Might Be Time to Leave
Before you hand in your resignation, look for these signs that consulting could be the right next step:
You’ve Reached a Career Plateau
If you feel stuck or that your current role no longer offers growth opportunities, consulting might provide the challenge you crave.
Your Skills Are in High Demand
Pay attention to the market. If companies frequently approach you for advice, or you’re the go-to person for ISO expertise in your organisation, that’s a strong indicator of your potential as a consultant.
You Crave Independence
Do you want more control over your work? Consulting is ideal for professionals seeking autonomy and the ability to make decisions without bureaucracy.
You’ve Developed a Strong Network
A wide professional network can provide a foundation for finding clients. If you’ve already built these connections, you’re a step ahead.
You Have Financial Stability
Consulting comes with risks, especially in the beginning. Ensure you have a financial cushion to sustain you while you establish your business.
Preparing for the Transition
Jumping into consulting unprepared can lead to stress and financial strain. Follow these steps to make your transition smoother:
Build a Financial Safety Net
Save enough to cover at least six months of living expenses. This safety net will provide peace of mind as you establish your consultancy.
Test the Waters
Start consulting on a small scale while maintaining your full-time job. Take on freelance projects to gauge demand and refine your services.
Upskill and Certify
Invest in certifications and training relevant to your area of expertise. This adds credibility and ensures your skills are up-to-date.
Lead Auditor ISO courses are useful - most costing approximately £2,000.
Registering with the Chartered Quality Institute also adds real credibility.
Research the Market
Understand your target audience. Identify industries that need ISO consultants and research their challenges and needs. Tailor your services accordingly.
Develop Your Brand
Establish a professional online presence. Create a website, optimise your LinkedIn profile, and consider writing blogs or creating videos to showcase your expertise.
Need help with website design? Drop me a call, I've created:
Build a Network
Networking is critical for finding clients. Attend industry events, connect with peers, and engage with online communities.
Set Up the Essentials
Register your business.
Choose a name and legal structure.
Invest in accounting software or hire an accountant.
Create contracts and templates to streamline operations.
I've covered all this in my other blog post:
Create a Business Plan
Outline your goals, services, pricing, and marketing strategies. A clear plan will guide your decisions and keep you focused.
Drop me a call if you need help with this, I've got a great template we can run through together to get you up and running:
Risks to Consider
While consulting offers many rewards, it’s important to be aware of potential challenges:
Irregular Income
Clients might not always pay on time, and work can be inconsistent. Proper budgeting and financial planning are essential.
Isolation
Working solo can feel lonely, especially if you’re used to a team environment.
This was a big adjustment after leaving the Royal Air Force after 15 years. Teamwork was at the center of everything we did. So working by myself, 10+ hours per day, certainly required some adjustment time.
Joining a consultancy community or co-working space can help.
Self-Discipline
Without a boss, you’ll need to manage your time effectively. Set clear goals and establish routines to stay productive.
Client Acquisition
Finding clients can be challenging initially. Be prepared to market yourself consistently.
Legal and Administrative Tasks
Running your own business comes with responsibilities like contracts, taxes, and compliance. Consider outsourcing these tasks if they’re outside your skill set.
When to Stay a Little Longer
Sometimes, waiting before you make the leap is the smarter choice. Consider staying in your current role if:
You Lack Experience
If you’re still building your expertise, remain in your current position to gain more knowledge and confidence.
You’re Financially Unprepared
Without sufficient savings, the stress of financial instability can outweigh the benefits of consulting. Save first, then leap.
I was fortunate enough to save well during my career so had a healthy savings pot to draw from for the first 6 months.
Although I was profitable in my first month of operating, It certainly helped reduce the stress levels knowing the mortgage could be paid whilst I started out - just in case this didn't work out for me... spoiler, it absolutely did work out for me - and it can for you as well!
Do you know what I wish I had when starting out? - These blog posts!
The Market Feels Saturated
If your niche is crowded, it might take more time to establish yourself. Research thoroughly before jumping in - I started out with ISO 9001 (Quality) and ISO 14001 (Environmental). Both heavily saturated standards - there is plenty of work to go around.
You Haven’t Built a Network Yet
Networking takes time. Strengthen your connections before relying on them for your business.
LinkedIn is the one here - get on it and get yourself out there.
You’re Uncertain About Consulting
Consulting isn’t for everyone. Take time to understand if it aligns with your personality, skills, and long-term goals.
This is a big leap of faith - in yourself. If you trust in your ability, you'll be just fine.
And if you hit a road block, I'm here to help.
Setting Yourself Up for Success
To thrive as a consultant, focus on these key areas:
Continuous Learning
The ISO landscape evolves. Stay ahead by attending workshops, earning new certifications, and keeping up with industry trends.
Deliver Exceptional Value
Your reputation is everything. Go above and beyond for your clients to earn referrals and repeat business.
Can't stress this enough.
Once clients strike a good relationship with their Consultant, you're in it for the long haul.
Build Multiple Revenue Streams
Diversify your income by offering training sessions, workshops, or digital resources alongside consulting.
Join Communities
Networking with other consultants provides support, advice, and potential collaboration opportunities.
Leverage Technology
Use tools like Notion or project management software to stay organised and efficient.
Final Thoughts: When Is the Right Time?
There’s no perfect time to leave your job for consulting.
It’s a deeply personal decision that depends on your skills, market conditions, and readiness.
The key is to plan thoroughly and transition strategically.
If you’re considering consulting but aren’t sure where to start, check out our ISO Consultancy Blueprint Course or book a 1:1 session for tailored guidance.
With the right preparation, your consulting career could be the best move you’ll ever make.
Take the leap when you’re ready - the world of consulting is waiting for you!
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