How to Become a Computer Consultant

A computer consultant advises consumers and businesses on hardware and software components. A computer consultant may visit companies and advise them on products that can make their business run more efficiently. Computer consultants either will charge a flat fee or work on commission on the recommended products.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Earn a degree in information technology. You will need at least a bachelor's degree in information technology. However, a master's degree is preferable to many consulting firms.

2. Gain experience in the computer field before branching out as a consultant. Apply for jobs within software companies, hardware producers and IT service firms to gain professional experience. Employers will look at your education and experience before considering you for a consulting job.

3. Read books on the basics of getting started as a computer consultant -- for example, "The Computer Consultant's Guide: Real Life Strategies for Building a Successful Consulting Career" by Janet Ruhl.

4. Search for computer consultant positions through an IT job search engine, such as ComputerWork.com.

5. Continue your education to stay viable as a computer consultant. It is important that consultants stay on top of computer news and trends. You can join an organization like Independent Computer Consultants Association to take webinar classes.

References

• Entrepreneur.com

Resources

• Amazon.com
• Computer Work
• Independent Computer Consultants Association

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