If you’ve been working in corporate HR for a while, chances are you’ve built up a strong reputation, developed a wide range of skills, and established a comfortable routine. You might even be at the top of your game – so why change anything?
But sometimes, despite the security and familiarity, something doesn’t quite feel right. You might find yourself daydreaming about a different kind of career, craving more flexibility or autonomy, or just wondering what else is out there. If that sounds familiar, it might be time to consider stepping outside your comfort zone – and doing so could be the best thing you ever do.
In this article, we explore how the shift away from corporate HR into something new – like consultancy – can lead to personal and professional growth, and why getting uncomfortable might just be the key to unlocking your next chapter.
Recognising when it’s time for change
That nagging feeling that you’re no longer fulfilled in your role isn’t something to ignore. For many HR professionals, the tipping point comes when the values of the corporate world no longer align with their own, or when the pace, politics or rigidity of the environment becomes draining.
Ask yourself:
- Do you feel energised by your day-to-day work?
- Is your role still helping you grow professionally?
- Are you finding space for the life you want outside of work?
If the answer to these is often “no”, you’re not alone. Many professionals in your position start exploring alternatives that offer a better balance, more impact, and work that feels genuinely rewarding.
The mindset shift: from structure to self-direction
One of the biggest changes in building the confidence to become an HR consultant is shifting from a structured, hierarchical environment to one where you’re in control. This can be both exciting and daunting.
You’re no longer working within someone else’s framework – you’re setting your own. That means:
- Making decisions without needing sign-off
- Setting your own goals and boundaries
- Building something that’s truly yours
This shift requires confidence and a willingness to back yourself, but it also offers incredible freedom. Many consultants say they hadn’t realised how stifled they felt until they stepped away and experienced the autonomy of consultancy life.
Getting comfortable with the unknown
Let’s be honest – stepping into the unknown is scary. Whether it’s fear of financial insecurity, worries about finding clients, or concerns about losing your professional identity, the unknown can trigger a lot of resistance.
But here’s the thing: growth doesn’t happen in comfort zones. That fluttery, slightly sick feeling you get when you’re about to do something new. That’s your brain expanding.
Here are some practical ways to manage the uncertainty:
- Do your research – understand the consultancy world, including what it’s really like to run your own business or join a franchise like face2faceHR.
- Plan your finances – knowing how long you can manage without a steady income gives you breathing space.
- Find your tribe – talking to others who’ve made the leap can be incredibly reassuring and give you a clearer picture of what’s ahead.
Small steps to build your confidence
You don’t need to leap without looking. In fact, building up gradually can help ease the transition. Try these confidence-boosting actions:
- Take on freelance projects or side gigs – testing the waters can give you a taste of consultancy life and help you develop business skills in a low-risk way.
- Upskill strategically – are there gaps in your knowledge? Consider brushing up on areas like employment law, business development, or marketing.
- Visualise your future – what does an ideal workday look like? Creating a mental image of your new working life can make the goal feel more tangible.
Taking even a few small actions can help you feel more prepared and grow the confidence to become an HR consultant at your own pace.
Reframing failure and fear
One major mindset shift is learning to view setbacks not as failures, but as feedback.
In corporate environments, the stakes can feel high. But when you’re self-employed or running your own consultancy, you’ll quickly learn that trying new things and making mistakes is part of the journey. No one gets it right straight away – and you don’t need to.
You can reframe fear by asking yourself:
- What’s the worst that could happen?
- What’s the best that could happen?
- What small action can I take today to move forward?
Often, fear shrinks once you start moving. Action breeds confidence – and each small win builds momentum.
Finding support on your journey
Making a career change can feel lonely if you’re doing it in isolation. Surrounding yourself with the right people makes a huge difference.
That might be:
- A mentor who has made a similar move
- A peer group of other independent HR professionals
- A franchise community offering ongoing support and resources
Having people around who understand what you’re doing and why can help you stay grounded and motivated – especially on those days when self-doubt creeps in.
Final thoughts – your comfort zone isn’t always your safe zone
It’s easy to stay where you are because it feels “safe” – but what if staying put is actually keeping you stuck?
Stepping outside your comfort zone doesn’t have to mean burning bridges or taking reckless risks. It’s about consciously choosing a path that feels more aligned with who you are now and the kind of life you want going forward.
Whether that’s starting your own consultancy, joining a franchise like face2faceHR, or simply exploring new possibilities, the rewards of stepping into something new can be huge.
If you’re thinking about taking that first step and want to find out what a different kind of working life could look like, we’d love to help. You can download our prospectus for more information or just get in touch for a friendly chat about your options. You might be closer than you think to building the confidence to become an HR consultant.