The world of work has undergone immense changes over the past decades. The digital economy, new technologies, and increased global competition have given rise to new business realities. Predictions that more than half of the U.S. workforce will have non-traditional jobs in the next few years are common. More and more people are looking for new ways to earn their living. Freelancers, contractors, free agents, gig workers, on-demand labor, and many more terms are all basically describing the same business--consulting. A lucrative $250 billion industry, consulting is growing at a phenomenal pace. Millions have taken the initiative to create their own livelihood and do what they want, when they want, and how they want. The timing couldn't be better. Consultants are more respected and in higher demand than ever before. Companies actively seek people with the expertise they need for any number of projects. Technology has empowered consultants to work from anywhere, to connect with clients, close a big deal, or build a brand from their home offices. We are all consultants to varying degrees, experts in something. The New Business of Consulting: The Basics and Beyond helps you transform your personal expertise into professional consulting success, sharing the practical know-how and entrepreneurial skills necessary to thrive in this dynamic field. Author Elaine Biech shares the knowledge gathered over her 35 years of experience as a management consultant, trainer, and designer to guide new and aspiring consultants through every crucial stage of their business. Engagingly written chapters, beginning with relatable real-life stories from the world of consulting, present information in the same order that you will most likely need as you move into a consulting role. Practical tips and insights help to spark ideas for your specific needs, point to resources where you can search for more ideas, and give you a preview of the day-to-day life of a professional consultant. The section, For the Consummate Consultant, offers actions that go beyond the content in the chapter--beyond the basics. A multitude of checklists, assessments, templates, financial forms, and online tools prepare you to project cash flow, plan marketing campaigns, track your time, measure your business aptitude, and much more. Focusing primarily on the business side of consulting, The New Business of Consulting provides everything you need to start and manage a successful consulting business, including how to develop a business plan, how to market your business, how to charge for your services, how to grow the business, and how to prosper in this rewarding profession.