The right use of technology is one of the main reasons why today’s top global businesses continue to reach new heights. This is where IT consultants play a huge role, because they diagnose the problems of a particular business, provide effective solutions and thereby move them to growth. These consultants are professional experts in a particular field and are often hired by IT consulting companies to help bring their vast expertise to your doorstep.

IT consultant

IT project management consultant

Business owners and managers look for answers and solutions to their problems from IT project management consultants. Your prospect has an idea, but doesn’t know how much it will cost or what it would entail. Your job is to fill in the blanks and possibly manage the traffic. You may need to provide a cost analysis and project scope detailing your IT solutions.

Maintenance and repair advisor

An IT maintenance and repair consultant provides support for hardware or software issues on individual machines or for larger networks. Small and medium-sized companies often have consultants for this type of work, so they can quickly respond to issues that disrupt normal business operations.

IT security consultant

IT security consultants, also called cyber security consultants, are increasingly important as cyber-attacks target all types of businesses and municipal, state and federal government organizations. These consultants often work on the front lines of cybersecurity, providing companies with advice and solutions to protect their digital assets. You may be asked to create firewalls, install anti-virus protection, and secure networks against hacking attempts.

What skills does an IT consultant need?

IT consultants typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, electrical engineering, or a related field. However, many IT professionals have taken a different route using online resources, specialized training and certifications. No matter how you develop your IT skills, it’s important to have a solid foundation in programming, database and networking fundamentals.

Gaining IT experience

Once you develop your expertise, you need experience. Several small business groups recommend two to five years as a computer support specialist or IT technician before striking out on your own and exploring IT consulting options. This not only gives you time in the field you will also develop contacts in the industry, similar to going to conferences. It shows clients that you have hands on experience dealing with real-life situations similar to what they may be experiencing.

Building a business

Starting an IT consulting business also requires a completely different set of skills that go beyond your expertise. If you previously worked full-time, the company you worked for most likely hired people who were responsible for accounting, compliance, and office management.

Conclusion

The aim was to provide an overview of all the major aspects of the management consulting industry, including the elements expected to become the core of the value proposition in the near future.