Never mind the technology, where’s the learning?

Back last month I picked up on the idea of list blogging. Rather than rabbit along in a rather in-coherent manner you produce a list of concise points on the topic. The one I particularly like is Kludge Spot’s 20 things I learned … and since imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, I decided to start my own series - 5 things I learnt (since I probably haven’t the imagination for twenty, and my lists are not intended to be humorous).

So here are the 5 things I’ve learnt from being an independent consultant:

1. Find a niche, but don’t get stuck in it. Advising on educational ICT means that things are not only always changing but also your clients, schools and teachers, are somewhat behind. Presenting things that are too far ahead is not a good idea as they will think you’re a geek. At the same time it does give you more time to become an ‘expert’. When the time is right, you’re riding the crest of the wave. On the other hand, you don’t want to stay in that niche too long, as further down the line, everyone can do it, and you’re left swimming with the rest.
2. Give advice freely even if they aren’t paying for it. Some people always want free advice, and try to get it without paying for it. This leads some consultants to ‘button up’ in general conversations where there is clearly no client paying. This is not a good idea, you never know who might be listening and you could be proving to a potential client that you the right person to get in. Always ask appropriate questions at other people’s talks, this can attract business as well.
3. Learn how to manage the client. Most organisations or individuals are not skilled at managing a consultant, and it’s very likely you’re there to fill a capacity problem, or relieve a stress point, so they are not looking to manage you as well. So don’t let things just slip by, especially when you’re looking at the contract they’ve sent you. Make sure the expectations on both sides are clear. If someone’s not listening, walk away.
4. Don’t be tempted to get too much out of your depth. Challenge is a good thing it keeps you growing and widens your experience, but don’t get tempted to do something that is not based firmly in your field of expertise, otherwise you’ll get into trouble.
5. Invest in your own Professional Development. There is no-one to do this but you. Make sure you give enough time and money to keeping yourself up-to-date. If you don’t you’ll get stuck in that niche and your uniqueness will wither away. Remember conferences (face-to-face and online) are not only where you learn new things, but where you can network and explain what you do, and how good you are at doing it, even if you’re only practising.

Image credit: Photoreb

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