️Episode 115 – What It Takes To Succeed As An Independent Consultant with Jon Younger Ph.D.

In today’s episode, I am joined by Jon Younger, Ph.D. Jon is a thought leader in the consulting space. He creates content about the revolution of freelance and the future of work. 

As a frequent contributor to Forbes and Freelance Focus, Jon has his finger on the pulse of what is happening in the consulting world. Our discussion will cover the future of work for freelancers. Jon explains:

• The future of work in consulting
• The four stages of freelancing
• How to Succeed as an independent consultant
• What consultant buyers are looking for during their hiring process
• How to make your brand stand out

Listen in while Jon and I dive deep into the evolution of consulting work. 

KEY POINTS IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:01:10] Overview of topics covered in the episode
• [00:03:30] Meet our guest, Jon Younger Ph.D.
• [00:07:17] Jon shares his background
• [00:11:49] 4 Stages of Early Freelancing/Consulting
  • [00:13:00] Stage #1: Starting from scratch
  • [00:14:10] Stage #2: Developing a brand and success
  • [00:14:15] Stage #3: Questioning if consulting is the right path for career
  • [00:14:51] Stage #4: Reenergized/re-motivated to succeed
• [00:15:00] Example of Stage #1 from Corporate to Independent Consulting
• [00:16:20] Example of Stage #1 as a New Graduate
• [00:18:22] Underestimating How Much Effort It Takes to Establish a Brand
• [00:23:34] What’s needed to be successful as an initial consultant
  • [00: 23:41] Brand 
  • [00: 25:06] Specialization
  • [00: 25:25] Networking
• [00:29:11] Trends on How Buyers Are Engaging With Consultants
• [00:29:45] Criteria for Freelance Buyers
  • [00:32:40] Clients need to know when to call
  • [00:34:7] Demonstrate a specific skill set
  • [00:35:22] Bring a network or team
• [00:36:24] Learn When to Take a Job and When to Pass
• [00:37:44] Make it Easy to Get Hired
• [00:39:30] Show Buyers How You Can Solve a Problem For Them
• [00:42:00] Connect with Jon

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE —

• I invite you to book a Strategy Consultation call with me. On this call, we’ll dive into your business, get clear on your goals and challenges and determine an action plan for you so that you can create the business impact, income, and flexibility that you desire. To book yours, click here.
• Learn more about Open Assembly
• Subscribe to Jon’s newsletter, Freelancer Focus. 
• Read Jon’s article, The Four Stages Of Early Freelancing on Forbes.
• Connect with Jon on LinkedIn.

FOR MORE RESOURCES SPECIFIC TO THE INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT —

1. Discuss working with me as your coach – Click here to schedule your consultation
2. Watch my YouTube Podcast Channel 
3. LinkedIn 
4. Website 

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