Businesses are always looking for IT consultants. All types of computer tech experts are in high demand, and this demand will only increase as more businesses come to life and new technology emerges.
Consultants often specialize in one area, such as web development, security, operations, infrastructure, disaster recovery, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, or database systems, to name a few. IT consultants perform a variety of tasks on a daily basis. They spend most of their time communicating with clients and assessing their technology needs.
How to become an IT consultant
Technology is a huge investment for businesses, and so they will be looking for the best when choosing an IT consultant to work with. Companies prefer consultants with strong educational backgrounds, experience, and a deep understanding of their business.
Here are a few pointers on how to become an IT consultant that businesses prefer to hire.
Earn a degree
If you want to become an IT consultant, a degree will give you an advantage.
Many employers will look for a consultant with at least a bachelor’s degree in the IT field, such as computer science, software development, management information systems, cybersecurity, or computer programming.
A master’s degree is optional but can give you an additional advantage. Read through job descriptions to find out the qualifications that employers look for in an IT consultant.
Get certified
The job market for information technology consultants is getting more competitive because more and more computer technology professionals are turning to a consultant career. There are some IT consultant positions that require certifications in specialized areas, but getting certified even if it isn’t mandatory can help you stand out from other IT professionals.
Gain work experience
The more years of experience you have, the stronger your profile. Typically, employers and clients look for at least five years of experience in relevant roles for an IT consultant position. Your credibility as an IT consultant gets even better if you have been in the consulting business for a while, have experience in management consulting and advisory roles, or have worked with reputable technology companies and consulting firms.
Decide if you want to specialize or generalize your skills
There are pros and cons to both specialist and generalist consulting. Specializing in a specific IT consulting area could mean less competition for jobs, better focus on trends and developments within your chosen area, and the ability to set better rates. However, you may lose some flexibility on the jobs you will be able to accept.
On the other hand, IT consulting generalists have the flexibility to say yes to more jobs. Having knowledge in several areas of IT can also mean that it will be easier for you to find work, and a company could hire you for multiple different jobs that require different skills. However, generalists typically have more competition and are easier to replace.
Consider specializing in an industry
Though IT consultants work in a variety of industries, specializing in one can prove beneficial. This will enable you to focus on developing expert skills and knowledge for that industry.
When you specialize in healthcare, for example, you will have a deeper understanding of the industry’s technological trends, regulations, and challenges. Knowledge of how the industry works is definitely of value to hiring managers because they can trust you to implement relevant solutions. In the long run, your reputation as an IT consultant specializing in the healthcare industry is likely to rise. Your expertise will be sought after by other companies in the healthcare industry. It might even help you set a higher rate for your skills.
Work on soft skills
Non-technical skills are just as important as technical skills for an IT consultant to deliver successful consulting projects.
To become an IT consultant, work on strengthening the following key non-technical skills:
- Good communication skills for working with clients
- Ability to analyze complex problems
- Ability to solve problems creatively
- Having an eye for detail
- A passion for high standards and the ability to meet them
- Ability to maintain high work standards under pressure
Develop some business skills
The longevity of consulting companies depends not only on the ability to set up computer networks and fix computer systems. When you become an independent IT consultant, you’re effectively running a small business and will need to learn how to review contracts, negotiate costs, estimate hours, and other aspects of business administration.
It is also important for you to know how to sell your consulting services to potential employers. Learn how to establish a professional network, find consultant jobs through professional contacts, and build long-term client relationships.
Keep learning
Keeping up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies is crucial in the ever-evolving IT field. And the more you know about your clients’ industry, the better your consultation services will be. Keep your specialist certifications active. Attend a broad range of short courses, training sessions, conferences, and workshops to stay informed.
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Once you’ve become an IT consultant, there are other aspects of your day-to-day that will need attention to ensure that you stay successful. Read the 7 pieces of advice from Søren Rosenmeier, a veteran in the IT consulting industry.
