Would Fortune 500 Companies ever hire a Young Engineer as a Project Management Consultant?
Question:
I think i have the right skill sets to manage and design medium size projects of moderate complexity for large industrial facillities. My question is would managers of companies like IBM, Shell Amgen, Wallmart , target etc ever hire an independent consultant to work on there Facilities or Capital Projects and my second question is is a PE License or a Project Management Certification or an MBA more important in starting a Consultancy Business. Also any tips for Business development
Answer:
My first instinct is to tell you yes, but getting your foot in the door will not be an easy feat.
Ultimately, to become a consultant to one of those companies, will have to be by referral. You'll also have to be prepared to explain to them the benefits of hiring you as a consultant vs. hiring someone full-time. There could be a very big market for this if you do it right. Since engineering work can be up and down, it would help the company to avoid layoffs and expensive recruiting fees. I think with the right confidentiality agreement and some good referrals, you could be successful. But make sure you KNOW you have the right skills. Don't just think it. Attitude and self-confidence will go a long way in marketing yourself.
My only question is, WHY? Why would you want to be a consultant vs. a full-time employee with benefits? Make sure you're doing this for the right reasons. Not because you don't think you're hireable or a good full-time employee.
As for your last question, depending on the work you want to do, a PE license is a must. An MBA would be a plus. A PM Cert would be appealing to the companies as well to show them you're well rounded. I'd suggest all 3 eventually, but start with the PE license at the minimum.
need to start with your very own
(.ws)
I did the same thing. Takes up to 5 years to get going. Can you live on no to low pay that long?
Rule #1 - the same companies who loved you as an employee will not give you time of day once you are on your own. Big companies only hire big companies. Similar consultants will consider you the enemy (competitor) and will not assist you at all so don't even ask for sub work unless it is priced at minimum wage. Then they will use you to steal your contacts..
Rule #2: It is not WHAT you know or your qualifications - it is still and always WHO you know. You MUST have someone bring you in from the inside. That is why it takes so many years to get going. You have build a referral network.
Rule #3 - start with small companies and work back up the ladder via your referral network.
Rule #4. See Rule #1.
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