How to Start A Consulting Business

Read the FULL conversation that created this post here - covetedconsulta...
He said... I am just starting my own consultant business and in researching, thinking about, and crafting my sales strategy I came across your 25k email campaign blog post. Really good stuff my man!
Until now, the cornerstone piece of my sales strategy is a comprehensive questionnaire that I send out to a potential client during the sales process. The assessment is a complete look at the business and asks probative questions that uncover in which areas is the business doing well and in which areas can the business improve and optimize right away. The sections of the questionnaire include the background of the owner, the background of the business, the past sales, the client base, and every traditional and online marketing pillar out there (SEO, PPC, email, social, affiliates, strategic partners, customer referrals, analytics, video, mobile marketing, competitive intelligence etc.)
Do you have a process like this where a client fills out a questionnaire about their business? Why or why not. If you did have an effective assessment that helped the client gain clarity on their business and see your value to help them grow, where would you put in in your e-mail sales process?
I said...I'm really glad to hear you found value in the 25k email campaign post.
In regards to your question about questionnaire/assessment forms...yes I use them. I think they are very important.
If at all possible, I suggest you ask the prospect to complete the form before the free consultation.
Here is the simplest way I know how to do it: Have your follow-up sequence explain the benefits with each message leading to a questionnaire.
Sample flow:
Run ad -- free consult registration page -- 1st big benefit of your service (link to questionnaire) -- 2nd big benefit of your service (link to questionnaire) -- 3rd big benefit of your service (link to questionnaire) -- 4th big benefit of your service (link to questionnaire) -- 5th big benefit of your service (link to questionnaire)
Each follow-up can be a video, blog post, or just a well-explained email. The important part is to focus on the benefit (what they get) instead of your service (what you do).
And that started a GREAT conversation. Be sure to check it out.
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• How to Start A Consult...

[@internationaljoel]

Still a very valid video in 2024. Hats off!

[@CovetedConsultant]

Much appreciated Joel. Thanks for giving the video a chance! 👍

[@TheDjscholz]

I've worked in consulting over 10 years. I have done work all over the world for governments and F500 clients. This is probably the best video I've ever seen on the consulting biz. You've got real talent.

[@CovetedConsultant]

Really #honored Dan to hear you say that. Best of luck to you!

[@LeonMaycock]

CovetedConsultant It was a please watching your video. I want to get started in developing a Educational Consultant business. I have worked in Education for over 18 years and is seen as a Transformational Leader. I have turned around multiple failing schools and I want to Package my plans on steps to shape today’s schools as well as cultural differences and school climate. This video gave me a clearer understanding on how to go about taking the first steps. Thanks Leon

[@keyquestions]

I was thinking the exact same thing. Excellent presentation style and content. Also comes across as an expert with a great personality.

[@nakkerannakl1627]

Dan consultant!

[@shyrogitau5119]

Interested with public health consultancy,where do i start?

[@PatrickLavergne]

I'm running a multi six-figure consulting business and I have to say this is great advice for anyone starting out in Consulting. Well done!

[@CovetedConsultant]

Thank you sir!

[@emadida_tz6355]

@Travelbird that's good i want to start it now

[@emadida_tz6355]

Your contact plz

[@chandler4686]

@@CovetedConsultant I'm still in highschool. But was thinking about becoming a political consultant.

[@Zo-hc2fn]

I am thinking about a new type of restaurants : eating-spots, in eating-spots, food keeps changing, chefs also rotate, this is opposed to current restaurants, thanks to this rotation of food and chefs, eating-spots are way more powerful than restaurants. along with that, there is an app, people vote for the food that will be cooked in the next days. menu is influenced by the live input of the people via an app

[@jeranmorris3786]

Your "favourite restaurant/dish" analogy was a nice touch.

[@bobcekaymusic]

blew my mind

[@MceboMikhayalMetfula]

3 years later but still GOLD!

[@arindamdutta9371]

6 years later but still GOLD 😀

[@alistairjordan5872]

I expected to find myself on a ad for being a dropshipping millionaire, and instead had someone very articulate giving GRADE-A advice. I'm happily suprised.

[@CovetedConsultant]

I'm SO glad you found the video helpful Alistair. (For the record, I don't know anything about dropshipping 😂)

[@yourcalling]

Dropshipping is a very high percentage failure, and I know that from experience

[@JasonKanigan]

I literally applauded when you pointed out how you don't need to do any of those things (website, business cards, etc.) to start a consultancy. Haven't used business cards in 20 years and have gotten plenty of clients for a new business without a website.

[@omiedghaosi8851]

Jason Kanigan Hi Jason, can we further discuss your consultant company? I’m looking to start my own and was wondering if I could ask you some questions?

[@walidkamal6423]

Because your are expert

[@vaindzng9685]

have you started already?

[@9erslady37]

Wow!

[@NitoKuvell]

While I agree with you and him that it is not essential, I still think that the value adding of these businesses depends on the line of business you are operating at. a Website can broadcast you services far and wide and also get you the correct exposure, but once again I view those as not essentials while yet being useful

[@ticozs]

I have YET to find a video in this category that is as clear and precise as this one. He's explaining consulting to a 5th grader. Taking something complicated & simplifying it. Incredible. Thank you.

[@CovetedConsultant]

Thanks Humberto. I worked hard to make this video a good one.

[@DavisMultimediaLLC]

You are a dynamic communicator. Thanks for sharing this information.

[@darlenetillman7084]

😎 cool. This is what I did for 28 years. I didn’t know I was a consultant ❤️

[@ayamiksystems1787]

6 years later but this is still really helpful. Thank you.

[@CovetedConsultant]

I appreciate that @Ayamik!

[@tessy28]

I agree what a wonderful video!

[@GreatAkudo]

Mehn, talks like he knows exactly what he's talking about. So confident and truthful.

[@GofelipeGraphicDesign]

so good

[@seanisfearless]

I echo everyone's sentiments. This video is a rare gem and filled with exceptional content. Well done, sir.

[@CovetedConsultant]

Thank you Sean. This video has become a classic!

[@breezecanada1505]

First of all, you provided REAL CONTENT. Many videos online are filled with fluff and prove to be a huge waste of people's time. Your information was relevant from beginning to end and highly appreciated. Second, your calm, clear delivery was OUTSTANDING. You spoke in clear, easy terms at a pace that was very easy to follow. I hit the LIKE button and the SUBSCRIBE button because I think you might easily be the very best consultant out there. Thank you sooooooooo much for this video.

[@CovetedConsultant]

Thank you Breeze. My goal was to make a video where the viewer could learn AND take action. I'm happy to hear you found this video worth your time.

[@abhish1984]

Probably one of the best and clearest set of videos on topic of starting consultant business. Seriously, I can't describe how helpful you have been. Thanks a lot!

[@CovetedConsultant]

I'm honored Abhishek. Good luck and close a bunch of clients!

[@ibless7349]

The best and I have looked at many. God bless you.

[@williettezigbuo4078]

Same Here!!!!

[@jonsfoster]

I keep revisiting this video as I contemplate starting a consulting business. I have watched many “experts” on KZbin talk about consulting. This is the by far the clearest, most educational, and most encouraging video I’ve found on starting a consulting business on the internet. Thank you.

[@CovetedConsultant]

This is a very humbling compliment. Thank you @jonsfoster. I trust this channel is able to help you even more in the future.

[@ninaoglesby2133]

This video is a game-changer even in 2021.

[@CovetedConsultant]

Thank you Nina. I'm really happy to hear this content is still relevant.

[@DanielIles]

I LOVE the point of not offering ALLLL of what you know and creating systematized solutions. I work as a small business consultant and while I used to be a personal trainer I will never consult a client on how to lose weight or fix their bum knee. Specialization in niche areas of business is absolutely critical!

[@CovetedConsultant]

Yes sir, Daniel!

[@leftclick2046]

4:55 This is so true! As a ex-med student transitioning into data science I can see how this plays out in all types of interactions! It's one of the first things you learn about patient interactions in med school... how to listen for the root cause/problem and the patients concerns. So to draw the analogy... the patient came in for a reason and you want to find out the specific reason why they came in (which may or may not be immediately evident, but they will tell you exactly what IF you listen and ask the right open ended questions). Great advice!!

[@CovetedConsultant]

".... IF you listen and ask the right open ended questions" - 100% @Leftclick

[@bonusexcitement9463]

A form of motivational or directional interviewing

[@leratokhatle5689]

this is such a helpful video, even 5 years later. thank you Sir

[@CovetedConsultant]

You are welcome Lerato. Which part did you find most helpful?

[@mrmrr9329]

After years of struggle, I got my green card , started my own consultancy company. Even hired the people who asked for my help. I'm glad that I was able to help those in need. It's such a good feeling to do some good in the society

[@CovetedConsultant]

That's an amazing story. It IS worth it...but it is something you have to build. Great work MRMRR

[@mrmrr9329]

@@CovetedConsultant Thank you it was definitely worth it.😅😅

[@learningiskey6953]

Hi I am Hemant Nagar from India. Stuck presently and looking for opportunities as I want to support my son's Tennis career. Looking for some business opportunities. Can we pls connect to explore more to understand how could I be of any support to you. Thanks.

[@yourcalling]

That is amazing. I hope you nothing but success

[@DrJenYes]

I just decided to take the first step towards my own business and googled for info. Your video came up! Wow very interesting info, easy to understand and I must say you are a very dynamic speaker, held my attention for the whole time! Thank you for this video! New sub!

[@IreneTryon]

This is great. I've been in the tax business for ages and everywhere I go, someone who knows my expertise always ask a tax question and I began to talk. Now I can focus on putting those common tax questions in the 20% category. Love the passion and energy.

[@aanuyate1]

I was creating my consulting website yesterday and took time this morning to do more research. After watching the entire video, your explanation was clear and the best I have ever heard. I love all the analogies. Thank you so much for this video.

[@allfunarena3032]

Can you enlighten me on how to start, I see you started two years ago.

[@erosemond]

I’m looking to start consulting myself and this video has opened my eyes and helped in some sense of what and how to do that. Thank you for your video and time!!

[@derekblades]

this is true for any business, not just consultant company. Skip the website and all the logo stuff. Get to to finding people with the problem you solve!!

[@eliegakuba]

Was looking for new ideas since I just started a business. Thanks for the advice. This is still among the best videos on this subject even after 5 years. Wow.

[@medozarkah8354]

by far you are the best video elaborating on the subject briefly & concisely. hanks for that.

[@medozarkah8354]

I have an inquiry.. if I would like to learn data analysis in business for marketing consultancy occupation , I know that I need to learn statistics then some kind of computing language. Is that correct , I’m on a mission of self learning to get a twist in my carrier path towards E- marketing..

[@eacc95]

I started following...and I know I had to see this video first. With all you say you just gave a great idea how to collect leads for my biz instead of throwing them directly to the product.

[@sachinkulkarni8742]

I have been thinking about strategy and approach for my newly setup consulting business. I must say that your input gave me right direction and lot of confidence. Thank you so much.

[@swaraj7993]

Good luck man.

[@Mrs_Yvonne_Afreh]

You just saved my business. This is amazing information. I have been consulting for 5years and starting my own firm this year. I was about committing all the mistakes you mentioned. I am so glad I decided to Watch this video. Thank you .

[@CovetedConsultant]

Indeed, there are a LOT of landmines out there. Dodge them ALL. Ha!

[@yourcalling]

That's awesome! I hope it's doing better now.

[@robertovalle655]

Thank god for your video series!!! This is the ONLY youtube channel I have found that says it like it is and contains zero bullshit. All your content is GOLD. You are the real deal!!!

[@KD-rn3cv]

This video was so great, I watched it twice. I first watched the video, then scrolled down and read the transcript that prompted this video. it was very helpful for understanding the context of this conversation. Great mini-case study for a person starting out. Thank you Coveted Consultant!!

[@CovetedConsultant]

I'm glad you enjoyed the content Kimberly. Kudos to you for using the transcript to understand the context. (That is what I published it, but not everyone goes that deep.)

[@margoolea625]

Excellent break down... You totally took the smoke and mirrors out and dispelled so many of my fears about where to begin. Great job!

[@agredo]

First video I see from you. was not expecting to much at the beginning, but during your talk I can see you are genuine and go to the point, trying giving value without necessary waiting to sale, doing a great consulting

[@HungLeEntrepreneur]

Fantastic content. You deserve two thumbs up! It amazes me how many consultants STILL spend time trying to make their website pretty as oppose to actually talking to prospective clients.

[@CovetedConsultant]

The Hung Le Let me see if I can find a second "thumbs up" for you to click. Ha! Indeed, there are a number of distractions that keep consultants from doing the real work of serving clients. Website "stuff" is just one of them.

[@HungLeEntrepreneur]

Haha indeed. Perhaps we should replace the 'law of attraction' with the 'law of distraction' lol great video buddy. I will share with my network! Keep up the phenomenal work.

[@natieharrison]

👍

[@mondayassassin1405]

LOVE YOU BROTHER. THIS is the best advice i have come across. Sorted and simple. LOVED IT!!!!

[@CovetedConsultant]

Thank you for the compliment Monday. I'm really glad you enjoyed the video! (I worked hard on it)

[@DerekAdamPiano]

Good information. I was innately following something similar as I have provided consulting without any of the middle column! This definitely reaffirmed my position on not to waste time with the middle stuff before ironing out my services.

[@RickLewis]

Watching this in 2018. Very good info. Thanks.

[@zenmasta1260]

Great presentation and excellent information you are exactly right most people that start a business begin with the standard stuff like website and logo but more time should be given to your unique offering, how to possibly differentiate yourself from the competition, how can you beat the competition or beat a top player in your niche/industry. I am just about to start a new business and this was a great reminder for me. Thanks!

[@anj354]

Loved "Chummy and swirling drinks" I hate that most about entrepreneurial life. This is such valuable information and so well presented. Thank you so much!

[@leemurray9330]

This channel needs to blow up. Fantastic presentation with real world applications. Subbed.

[@CovetedConsultant]

Hey Lee! I'm honored at the compliment and appreciate the subscription.

[@adrianhunter88]

Great. Because I was about to spend money on my image on top of what it took to get clients. I'm a PR consultant now so image is always important. Thanks for your sound advice.

[@jordanstubblefield8790]

How is your consulting doing now?

[@allsmiles3281]

EXCELLENT video! You are 100% correct. We are the therapist, counselor and catalyst for the solution. Always about how can we grow from here.

[@DEKHARIR]

Over something so simple that I didn't noticed I skipped you helped me out so much! Thanks.

[@ekwogegislain7617]

Am grateful for this video as it has pushed further to my dream pursuit in consulting

[@FAB0516]

"Conventional thinking is boring" lol, I love it 👍🏽

[@CovetedConsultant]

Glad you do! Thanks for watching Felipe

[@thesunshine4524]

You are the best teacher I have come across on KZbin. May God be with you always 🙏

[@RS-jz4pg]

you have literally educated us on a business model that many want know but who ever they turn to want to charge them when people like me have no budget at the moment but rely heavily on social media to get our business name and services out there to actually start generating income from a business! I appreciate this man! New subscriber here!

[@berkeleybenje]

Do more videos, please. You’re actually dropping knowledge-unlike these other people on KZbin who are basically saying nothing.

[@amurphysharp7377]

This was a really GREAT video that is just clear and concise! You definitely hit the nail on the head with this video! You should write a book! Thanks!

[@CovetedConsultant]

Hmmm.....I'll think about that. Thanks for the encouragement Murphy.

[@amurphysharp7377]

CovetedConsultant (Alzay Calhoun) I am serious! I have found it difficult to find information that I could actually use. I have found that those who teach consulting info often talk as if people lacking the specific consulting experience understand what they are talking about. They give philosophical information, and your information has been real world application. You put it all together in a clear and concise way rather than have a bunch of jewels spread throughout books and training leaving the novice to figure out what pieces of the puzzle go where. Appreciated

[@xXxXHitmanXxXx]

Fantastic work, thank you so much Sir! Magnificent speaker and very clear communication!

[@Chasenoir]

love seeing a black man giving out gems! keep it up @covetedconsultant

[@leehuddy6061]

I thoroughly enjoyed your video! I am just now starting to put my consulting business in motion. Your video helped put some things in perspective. Before I can even approach potential clients I have to have a count and state license. No problem. I also must have professional liability insurance. I am venturing into insurance consulting. I will not be selling insurance but educating individuals and small business about their insurance. I've been in the industry for 40 years. I want to help people understand what their agents don't seem to really take the time to do.

[@francesanugo1640]

Being toying with the idea of starting a consulting business, this video is so specific and informative. Thank you!

[@YohannesMadeIT]

So glad I watched this before starting. My digital asset consulting business is on the way

[@Honeybunches1913]

I have taken the first step in starting an Educational Consulting Business. I love this information! Thank you!

[@samwilson3069]

Fucking hellll!! Finally a man who clarifies the real Consulting business how it really works!!!!

[@lauriagrantiii1357]

This is excellent! Thanks for guidance and the simplicity of how to approach consulting

[@andersonconsultingCLE]

MAN....WHERE WERE YOU when I started my practice??!!! THIS VIDEO IS GOLDEN!!!!

[@CovetedConsultant]

Honored to hear it. What kind of practice do you run?

[@SignTribe]

Thank you for this video! I launched a new business in January, and now I am wanting to expand and offer consulting services. This was very helpful.

[@CovetedConsultant]

Do it Luanne! Don't let anyone stop you. 😁

[@yourcalling]

You can do it! Hope you're doing great.

[@6395devans]

Consulting 101...This is where I'm at my brother. MUCH.RESPECT

[@victorisyamba]

The best consultancy-for-consultancy that I have ever come across.

[@AlexOfCR]

5min 30s in and I already love this guy and this is the first time I'm ever seeing him

[@CovetedConsultant]

#honored to hear it, Alexander

[@MySiamesedreams]

You are awesome! Way to distill an often bloated subject. I'm a fan. Thank you for these videos.

[@CovetedConsultant]

#honored to hear you say that. Thank you.

[@jenevahall9944]

This is better than the information I learned in my masters program !!

[@CovetedConsultant]

Yea Jeneva, this wasn't taught to me either. A bumped my head a lot in order to pick up these lessons. Please enjoy and use them!

[@GraceEllis-m3n]

Thank you for this information. Getting ready to start Healthcare Consultant Business. I am graduating May 5, 2024, with my Doctoral Degree!

[@wheredidileavemycell]

The restaurant analogy is on point. Kind of like food trucks, good food trucks are agile because of a simple menu that is good. The variables are fairly well known and everything is standardized. For myself, I want to start a tier 1 help desk consultation business. Essentially focus on the desktop/laptop repair, printer and phone support, and Excel/Outlook help. I want to focus on the most common IT issues so I can standardize the fixes and processes.

[@shirleygbell4753]

Loved your video by the way very to the point not over the top and honest 👏🏽

[@CovetedConsultant]

Thank you Shirley.

[@PartTimeBetting]

Some people binge watch Netflix. I binge watch Coveted Consultant! Good stuff!

[@CovetedConsultant]

#Humbled at this complement, Income Rocks. Enjoy the content!

[@realonebusinessschool]

I love the energy in your presentation. And your points are impactful.

[@charismatorres-eleazar2293]

8 Years forward and this is really a good one!

[@alainkpassokro616]

One of the greatest video I've ever watched on KZbin. Thanks so much !!!

[@shephardfamily]

We are creating a new way of doing business. So I am watching your video so that we can work with each other to ensure ours lives unite and strengthen our families value.

[@getivan]

I've been doing this stuff, full-time, since 2015... and this is one of the best presentations I've seen on the topic. Most of the wannabe guru types talk all day long about "mindset", but you touched on the key issues, here... and "what to sell" is possibly the biggest of them all. I've made money in several different areas, and successfully consulted on a lot of things, but finding something to scale into is a whole other thing, altogether. A strong argument could be made for a simple propriety product or service... if you've got that... you can literally stumble into everything else... heh...

[@CovetedConsultant]

Ivan, thank you for for the compliments. You are SO right - if you focus on a "simple proprietary service" - your world gets SO much easier.

[@BrianHeffron1]

Great video, biggest takeaway was cutting out services offered...that's always the toughest for me!

[@avibank]

Lol, I caught myself looking for a logo last night. Such a trap. You're on the money!

[@CovetedConsultant]

Indeed, there are a LOT of ways to spin your wheels. Avoid them all. Ha!

[@AWholeVibe96]

He definitely should’ve made that scene a blooper just for comedic relief 🤣

[@philhall8009]

Love this, my only complaint is there appears to be items off screen you refer to.

[@25447carepear]

I just got the revelation of what God has put in me and what I do well in . I prayed for years and told God, I have to talent or gifts. I was writing this week and writing ideas I had randomly about a field I love and BOOM! All of a sudden it made sense that I can create a consulting business in this field that I have great understanding and a love for. I would do it if I didn't get paid. So excited! I came up with organizational media consulting. I searched and now found this video. This is very helpful. Feel like I'm in a marketing/ economic class. If I don't have a degree, is a communications degree a good avenue? What are the best certifications?

[@CovetedConsultant]

I'm glad you found an area you would like to focus on. Whether or not you need a degree/certifications...depends. The requirements are industry/client specific. A good place to start your research: look at other who offer similar services and see what qualifications they have.

[@yourcalling]

How are you doing nowadays? Did you make the leap? We hope you the best

[@bellamorte76]

Very well done. The keep it strait forward and simple here. I have a true niche fill area and 20 plus years of experience. I like this video for the keep clear and simple factors. With all my experience and possible offerings that was a challenge as I hate to leave money on the table or problems that could be solved left unspoken. I hope to have my business up and running this year.

[@CovetedConsultant]

Leaving money on the table is a fear for all of us. Still, my advice is to keep things simple and build one brick at a time.

[@etumnumatthew2286]

This is instructive and insightful. Thank you for sharing. I am about begin my consulting business full time

[@aljpelayo2120]

Simple, practical, truthful

[@CovetedConsultant]

Thanks AJ!

[@petermbuguanjoroge8038]

This is helpful for any business that is providing services. I have learnt key things here.

[@msconnie1246]

This was very informative. Very elementary to understand. I really enjoyed the presentation pedagogy. It helps tremendously. Thanks!

[@aakidatta]

Thank you so much. You pointed out the mistake I made before. This video is exactly what I needed.

[@emsantiago]

ONE OF THE BEST VIDEOS I'VE SEEN ON THE SUBJECT.

[@CovetedConsultant]

Much appreciated!

[@stevelazars8155]

Fantastic model, Fantastic focus and Fantastic ideas!

[@CovetedConsultant]

Thank you Steve. It sure took a while to establish this focus!

[@azimniazi]

You have made my problem solved. I am about to start my Biogas and Renewable Energy Consulting Business and this is what I was in Search off. The next video I am in search of is “Consulting Fee” calculations. Any tool or some suggestions please 🙏

[@shodapad07]

Have you started the consulting business and hope you were able to get your consulting fee?

[@simeonekokobe6061]

Thanks.I just got my first consultancy offer and your video came in handy.

[@therebelpriestess]

Great presentation, enjoyed every second of your information!!! You really narrowed the chain of operative facts down to three easy building blocks. Great Job!!!!

[@CovetedConsultant]

Thanks Grace!

[@ClovisBubala]

Man, you're on point. Awesome video. Thank you

[@miamori13]

Thank you, for sharing this insightful information. It is appreciated. God bless.

[@fmj_556]

This is freaking awesome! I’ve been spinning my wheels doing all sort is dumb stuff. Thanks for distilling down all this info into a simple systematic system!

[@maryrose5076]

thankfully for your video! I start my Business Consultant since 2019 .Its really helpful

[@MrHackett]

Really well done . This needs to be shared often. Wish I could give more thumbs up.

[@tripleVirgo]

This is extremely helpful, concise and to the point, thank you!

[@DiancaSutton]

This is amazing information! 👏🏽I’m a new HR Consultant business owner in the learning phase with 9 years of HR experience in academics, technology, waste management, insurance, and career transition consulting industries. I will definitely benefit from this video. Keep em coming !! 🎉

[@cinderellandawonde1593]

Please plug me also wanna start

[@proxecuteconsultinggroup3633]

In consulting you need to sell yourself as an alternative to a full-time employee, and that is how you will be treated, minus the medical, dental and 401K benefits. Scope creep and demands for non-value adding face-time at the client's office will take over, leaving little time for other projects. A client is not your boss, so leave the subordinate mindset behind. You are a consultant, with a clear value proposition to help the client achieve their goals. Act accordingly.

[@everythingfromatoy]

Super appreciative that I came across your video. I just learned a new industry after weeks of research, and now others are asking me for the info. So I figure I’d charge them for the research I’ve done (since they’re too lazy to learn on their own). 🤗🥳