The Wild, Wacky World of IT Consulting

The Wild, Wacky World of IT Consulting

Becoming an IT consultant is like being thrown into a new TV series every few months. There’s no script, no pre-training on how to “act” like a consultant, and you’re expected to just… figure it out. Ready for some high-stakes improvisation?

No Manual, No Problem

Let’s be clear: there’s no secret “How to Be a Consultant” training camp. When you step into consulting, you’re essentially walking into a new world every time you take on a new project. Each client has a unique set of problems, expectations, and quirks. And just when you think you have it figured out—bam! New project, new quirks.

How the Customer Sees You: The Magical IT Guru (Sort of)

To the client, you’re the person with all the answers—or at least, that’s the hope. There’s an expectation that you’re part wizard, part therapist, and part tech genius. Some clients might envision you as some IT rockstar; others might secretly hope you can fix their Wi-Fi as a bonus. Managing that perception is half the battle. You’re not just a tech expert—you’re an actor, director, and sometimes even the special effects crew.

Balancing Quick Learning with the “Expert” Title

As a consultant, you’re expected to dive into the details and pick things up at lightning speed. But there’s also this funny thing where you’re supposed to be an expert in everything, right from the start. It’s a delicate dance. How do you balance knowing “enough” with the confidence that’s expected of an expert? Here’s the trick: learn fast, stay curious, and remind yourself (and sometimes the client) that expertise is a journey, not a sprint.

Openness Is Your Superpower

Consultants who are clear and upfront about what they know—and what they don’t—tend to build stronger relationships with clients. Think about it: everyone loves a know-it-all… until they’re wrong. So, share your ambition and your roadmap with the client. Let them know your plans, how you’ll tackle their challenges, and, yes, your learning curve. Openness leads to trust, and trust means they’ll listen more when you do have the right solution.

Expect Questions (And Then Some)

Consulting means you’ll be questioned. A lot. Clients will ask you why you’re taking a certain approach, why their old method wasn’t good enough, and sometimes, just why. Don’t be fazed by this. Embrace it! It’s all part of the job. Each question is a chance to explain, to motivate, and to share your thought process—which, surprise, is another way to build credibility. Closing Thoughts: Embrace the Chaos

IT consulting is a rollercoaster, but it’s also a ticket to constant growth, learning, and adaptation. Sure, you’ll have moments where you feel like you’re “winging it,” but the thrill of diving into the unknown, problem-solving on the fly, and building new relationships is totally worth it.

All Jokes Aside…

In the end, consulting is a path for those who crave both rapid learning and being able to make impact. Many developers who seek accelerated growth are drawn to consulting because it challenges them to think on their feet and adapt quickly. This role demands both technical skill and a willingness to continuously learn and evolve in new environments.

When you commit to delivering high-quality work, are willing to explain, clients notice, and new opportunities often arise naturally. And while you’re not expected to have all the answers on day one, being open and transparent with clients builds the kind of trust that fuels long-term relationships. Often, clients appreciate the consultant who is honest about their approach and confident in their curiosity—someone who is as invested in finding the right solutions as much they are.

Consulting is more than just solving technical issues; it’s about bringing clarity and direction in uncertain situations. Each project is not just a step in your career, but a chance to deepen your expertise, make a difference, and build connections that endure.

A Final Thought

This reflection comes after seven years consultancy work, filled with both rewarding and extremely challenging experiences. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading it and found insights that resonate. If you’re new to consulting, remember: a lighthearted attitude, balanced with dedication and openness, can make all the difference. Embrace the unexpected! Stay curious! Dive in!