In a time when our economy is failing, business development, marketing, and pr consultants keeps businesses alive. Consultants have been the foundation resource for many individuals and businesses that understand the importance of the information obtained but do not have the budget to hire full-time or part-time employees and feel with the right direction; they can achieve satisfactory results themselves. Most consultants specialize in the field they attained their degrees in, which is a smart decision because consultants are typically generalized as experts.

Education and continual learning is an important foundation for consultants; realizing that there are several aspects a consultant must consider 1) being the need to utilize basic business formats and skills learned in school, 2) seeking a mentor, and 3) to have a basic knowledge in the field and market specializing in--each will help evoke creativity with consultations, advice, and ideas given to clients.

Be proactive, build connections, resources, and a basic format for your business or career as a consultant as you will use them along the way. Social media is an extraordinary way to get the word out about your expertise. Associating hash-tags (#) and interacting with your friends/followers can help build your business reputation. Viral videos are also a phenomenal tool to use; this allows people to visually relate to the advice and insight provided.

An effective consultant acknowledges the importance of goal setting, hard-work, education, dedication, satisfactory customer service, and believes in continual advancement. Staying abreast of changes in market and media will help when business is slow. As a consultant, always think optimistic, be realistic, and have compassion for the clients serviced. Loyal clients are the bulk of the consulting business, to be successful, maintain professionalism, and develop a considerable referral base and program.

Enthusiasm plus action equals success! As a consultant, being active, assertive, giving free advice and providing useful resources can lead to a paying client. However, there is a difference between giving away information to be helpful and losing a client because you gave too much information. Learn restraint and patience.

Create a basic non-disclosure agreement solidifying terms and have client authenticate before each consultation; identify key topics to be discussed, and consultations fees upfront. Be flexible but stay within market prices. Develop price and service options but do not go overboard, these options are to be used when client has budget constraints or is undecided about the services they actual need.

A consultant must be an effective, trustworthy, enthusiastic leader; individuals depend on our advice, suggestions, and expertise when solving problems. Always keep your name and reputation in mind when making decisions.

Many consultants fail in business because of unprofessional decisions and/or remarks made on social networking sites. We are admired as positive, resourceful individuals with a wealth of knowledge. Be dedicated to helping, not just making money---ultimately that is what consultants do, we help with a sense of direction! Think excellence, set winning examples, speak up, speak out, build a reputation for helping others, take risks, and win admiration.

Author's Bio: 

LaNisha Rene is the CEO of LR Consulting Enterprise, LLC founded in 2008, specializing in Business Development, Strategic Marketing, and Public Relations. She is an industry leader, educator, and philanthropist in her community. LaNisha is also the creator and writer of business column "Life As An Entrepreneur" --- A business success guide for entrepreneurs.

LaNisha obtained her BBA, with a concentration in Management in 2009 and her MBA in 2011. Her business strategy revolves around the need to provide quality services and business education to her various clients, providing clients with effective outlines, proposals, and deadlines that is reflective of her intended image and reputation. LaNisha has positioned herself as a quality service provider that strives to provide beneficial, accurate resources and techniques for entrepreneurs and small businesses to be successful. LaNisha not only helps her clients to progress with their business, she wants her clients to leave with the knowledge that will help them to teach others.