Could you be a Consultant?

Consultancy is a good career option for many leaving the Armed Forces, but is it right for you?

What is consultancy?

A consultant is hired by an organisation to help with a task or project it is unable to complete on its own.

Why former officers can be great consultants

Experienced at project management.
Experienced at working independently.
Ex-military Personnel are respected in the civilian workplace.
It can offer similar rewards to being in the military, providing dynamic and challenging opportunities.

How to choose your specialism

Choose a specialism that interests you – look at your skills and experiences to help decide.
Understand your potential client’s needs, and see if your expertise could help.
While in the Armed Forces use your training credits for project and commercial management courses, so you are business ready when you leave.

How to find work

Be clear on the support you can provide an organisation.
Ask your network of friends, families and business contacts for leads.
Develop your network on LinkedIn and attend networking events, including those run by the OA.
Research online what industries are hiring consultants.
Cold call and email companies that you would like to work for, or you know have opportunities.

Why consulting is not for everyone

The lifestyle and pressures can be similar to being in the military, and you may want something different in your new career.
Often involves lots of travelling, and spending time away from family, sometimes for long periods.
The income can be irregular, with quiet and busy periods.
If you are self-employed you will often be looking for new work, and be responsible for your tax and pension.
You have to keep on good terms with clients, and some can be very demanding.