Consultants share their secrets: How to find clients

Donna Sherard, now an independent consultant, pitched her departure from her employer as a change in their relationship. She now has a two-year contract with the same employer in a different capacity — and credits careful planning for that and other work she’s gotten since. “I was managing my contacts before I knew I was leaving,” Sherard explained, adding that she planned her departure from her full-time position approximately 18 months in advance. Kate Warren, Devex’s senior director and editor of careers and recruitment, sat down with several independent consultants to discuss tips for building their business during a panel organized by Independent Consultants Working for a Better World. Gisele McAuliffe, who has worked as a consultant since 2001, credits networking for much of her business. Watch the video to find out how she frames conversations that eventually lead to contracts. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or budding development professional — check out more news, analysis and advice online to guide your career and professional development, and subscribe to Doing Good to receive top international development career and recruitment news every week.