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Internet Consultants


Outlook

Employment Prospects

Employers

Many Internet consultants work independently, running their own consulting businesses. Others may be salaried employees of traditional management consulting firms that have Internet consulting divisions or departments. And still others may be salaried employees of Internet consulting companies.

Independent consultants have the added responsibility of marketing their services and always looking for new projects to work on. Consultants at a firm are typically assigned to work on certain projects.

Clients that hire Internet consultants include small businesses, large corporations, health care facilities and companies, and government agencies. Consultants work all across the country (and world), but large cities may offer more job opportunities. Some consultants specialize in working with a certain type of business such as a hospital or a retail enterprise.

In 2020, Vault.com ranked the following IT strategy consulting firms as the best in terms of prestige and a good work environment.

  1. Accenture
  2. Deloitte Consulting LLP
  3. IBM Global Services
  4. McKinsey & Company
  5. PwC Advisory/Strategy&
  6. The Boston Consulting Group
  7. Capgemini
  8. Oracle Consulting
  9. Bain & Company
  10. Gartner, Inc.

Vault.com also ranked the best IT operations consulting firms:

  1. Accenture
  2. Deloitte Consulting LLP
  3. IBM Global Services
  4. PwC Advisory/Strategy&
  5. Capgemini
  6. Oracle Consulting
  7. SAP Services (IT Consulting)
  8. McKinsey & Company
  9. Cognizant
  10. Infosys Ltd.

Starting Out

Most consultants enter the field by working for an established consulting firm. This way they can gain experience and develop a portfolio and a list of references before venturing out on their own as an independent consultant or moving to a different firm in a higher position. The Internet is a good resource to use to find employment. Many sites post job openings. Local employment agencies and newspapers and trade magazines also list job opportunities. In addition, your college's career services office should be able to help you locate job openings.

Networking is a key element to becoming a successful consultant and requires getting in touch with previous business and social associates as well as making new contacts. Many consultants use LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com) and other professional networking sites to advertise their services and make new business contacts. 

Advancement Prospects

Internet consultants have several avenues for advancement. As they become known for their expertise, demand will increase for their services. Consultants who are in high demand can charge higher fees. They can also specialize in a certain aspect of computer consulting, which can allow them to increase their client base and fees. Those working for consulting firms may move into management or partner positions. Consultants who want to work independently can advance by starting their own consulting businesses. Eventually they may be able to hire consultants to work for them. Some consultants leave the field to head the computer departments or perform Web site administration for corporations or other agencies. Because of the continuous developments within the information technology industry, the advancement possibilities for consultants who continually upgrade their knowledge and skills are practically endless.

Tips for Entry

Design and build your own Web site or blog to hone your skills and to serve as your portfolio.

Volunteer or find a part-time job that allows you to teach or work with people who are unfamiliar with the Internet and its popular functions, such as e-mail and social media.

Contact an Internet consultant to schedule an information interview to learn more about the profession, the industry, and the latest news and trends.