The world of IT consulting offers flexibility, higher earning potential, and exciting opportunities to work with cutting-edge technologies. However, the path from a full-time corporate job to a freelance consulting career isn’t always straightforward. In this blog post, we’ll expand upon the key points discussed in the latest episode of Empowering Empathy featuring Brian Marcum, CEO of Golden Technology, and Michael Walker, VP of Marketing. Whether you’re a new graduate, a seasoned IT professional, or someone considering a mid-career shift, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you navigate the world of IT consulting.
Consulting vs. Corporate: Which Path Should You Choose?
1. The Value of Starting in Corporate IT
For new graduates or those entering the IT industry, Brian Marcum emphasizes the importance of gaining foundational experience in a corporate environment. Corporate roles, especially at large organizations, provide a structured environment to learn a wide range of technologies, methodologies, and business processes. These environments offer young professionals the chance to:
- Build core competencies in IT.
- Work within complex and diverse IT departments.
- Develop a broad skill set across various technologies and frameworks.
Marcum advises that starting in a corporate role gives IT professionals a well-rounded foundation, making them more marketable in the future. He specifically suggests aiming for large, established firms (such as Deloitte, Accenture, or major IT groups at companies like Kroger or Fifth Third) for those looking to fast-track their experience.
2. When to Transition to Consulting
As IT professionals build experience, the question often arises: “When should I consider consulting?” Consulting can offer several advantages, including:
- Higher earning potential.
- Greater flexibility in work hours and project selection.
- The ability to work with diverse clients and industries.
However, consulting also comes with risks. Marcum highlights that it requires an entrepreneurial mindset, as consultants must handle the uncertainty of finding the next assignment and the potential for gaps between projects. For those transitioning from full-time employment, it’s essential to weigh whether you are prepared for the unpredictability and whether you have the financial stability to manage periods of downtime.
Evaluating Consulting Opportunities: What to Look For
3. Key Considerations for Evaluating Consulting Gigs
If you’re ready to transition into consulting, one of the most critical steps is evaluating potential opportunities. Marcum advises professionals to consider the following factors:
- Longevity of the Assignment: Is the assignment long-term or short-term? A six-month project may be ideal, but be cautious with very short-term contracts unless they come with high value.
- Hourly Rate and Compensation: Ensure the pay aligns with your experience and market demand. Factor in that consulting typically pays more than full-time roles, but you may also have gaps in employment.
- Technology and Company Culture: Look for companies that invest in IT and treat it as a core part of their business, not just a necessary evil. The company’s approach to technology can impact your experience and professional growth.
- Consulting Firm’s Support: Does the consulting firm offer training, benefits, and career development support? Some firms focus solely on placements, while others, like Golden Technology, provide a holistic approach to consultant care, including professional development, benefits, and transparent communication.
4. The Role of Contract-to-Hire Opportunities
One option for consultants or full-time employees considering a shift is the contract-to-hire route. This allows you to test the waters at a new company before committing to a permanent role. However, Marcum advises caution, as contract-to-hire positions come with less certainty. It’s important to ask the following:
- Does the company have a history of transitioning consultants to full-time employees?
- What is the ratio of consultants to permanent employees?
- Are you willing to take on additional short-term contracts if a permanent role doesn’t materialize?
Why Experienced Consultants Should Consider Golden Technology
5. A Consultant-Centric Approach
Golden Technology stands out in the consulting space due to its consultant-first model. Brian Marcum highlights the company’s dedication to empowering its consultants with impactful opportunities and long-term career support. At Golden Technology, consultants are part of the family and benefit from:
- Dedicated Consultant Care: Each consultant has access to ongoing training, professional development, and support to address job satisfaction and career growth.
- Broad Breadth of Opportunities: With a growing global footprint, Golden Technology offers access to numerous cutting-edge technology projects with top-tier clients.
- Transparency and Trust: Golden’s recruiters and business development managers are transparent about the opportunities they present, ensuring consultants are fully informed before making decisions.
6. Golden’s “Build Model” for Career Development
Golden Technology is also committed to helping less-experienced professionals transition into consulting through its “build model.” This model offers training and development for fresh graduates or those switching careers into IT. Consultants undergo extensive training, gaining real-world experience before being placed into client roles. After a period of development, clients can offer these consultants full-time positions, making this an excellent path for entry-level professionals.
Conclusion
The decision to move from a full-time corporate role to IT consulting is a significant one. It comes with its share of challenges and rewards, from higher pay and flexibility to the uncertainty of finding consistent work. Whether you’re a recent graduate looking for your first big opportunity or a seasoned IT professional ready for a change, consulting offers exciting possibilities.
With the right preparation and by evaluating opportunities carefully, you can make the most of what consulting has to offer. Golden Technology provides a supportive and transparent environment that empowers its consultants for long-term success.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your IT career, consider the insights shared by Brian Marcum and Michael Walker. Consulting could be the career move you’ve been waiting for!
