Over the past month, we have explored why many experienced HR professionals reach a point where they start reassessing their careers. We have looked at taking stock of where they are today, considering new possibilities, understanding what the move into consultancy really involves and asking whether a franchise model could be the right fit.
For some people, those reflections lead to a bigger question: if I decide consultancy is the next step, what support will I need to make it a success?
The reality is that starting an HR consultancy involves far more than applying the HR knowledge and experience you have built throughout your career. It also means learning how to run and grow a business.
At face2faceHR, we have worked with many experienced HR professionals making this transition, and one thing we have learned is that the right support can make a significant difference to both confidence and long-term success.
Why HR professionals need different support when moving into consultancy
One of the biggest misconceptions about consultancy is that success is simply about being a great HR practitioner.
Of course, strong HR expertise is essential. However, most senior HR professionals already have that in abundance.
The challenge is usually not delivering HR advice. It is everything that comes alongside running a business.
Questions often include:
- How do I attract my first clients?
- What should I charge for my services?
- How do I market myself effectively?
- Which systems and processes do I need?
- How do I balance client work with growing the business?
These are not typically skills that HR professionals develop in employed roles, which is why support in these areas can be so valuable when starting an HR consultancy.
What support matters when starting an HR consultancy
Many people assume support begins once a consultancy is up and running.
In reality, some of the most valuable support happens before launch.
A structured approach can help people work through the practical aspects of setting up a business, creating a plan and building confidence before they start working with clients.
At face2faceHR, this begins with our Fledgling programme, which helps new consultants prepare for launch through a combination of training, activities and personal support.
The aim is not to overload people with information. Instead, it is to provide a clear pathway so they can focus on one step at a time and avoid many of the common mistakes that new business owners often make.
The first year is where support really matters
The first year of consultancy is often the biggest learning curve.
Many new consultants quickly discover that winning work, managing clients and running a business all at the same time requires a different set of skills and habits.
This is where ongoing support becomes particularly important.
At face2faceHR, our Flying Start programme is designed specifically to support consultants through those crucial first 12 weeks after launch, helping them put what they have learned into practice while building momentum in their business.
In addition, consultants have access to coaching, resources and guidance from people who understand the challenges they are facing because they have experienced them themselves.
Often, having someone available to answer a question, sense check an idea or provide reassurance can make all the difference.
Learning from people who have already done it
When people think about support, they often think about training courses and manuals.
While these are important, some of the most valuable learning comes from other people.
One of the advantages of being part of an established network is having access to consultants who have already navigated the challenges you may be facing.
Whether it is discussing pricing, sharing marketing ideas or talking through a difficult client situation, learning from others can help accelerate progress and build confidence.
Sometimes the biggest benefit is simply knowing that you are not figuring everything out on your own.
Why support should not stop after launch
Starting an HR consultancy is only the beginning.
As a business develops, the questions and challenges change.
In the early stages, the focus may be on winning clients and establishing credibility. Later, it may be about improving profitability, refining services, managing workload or planning for growth.
This is why ongoing development matters.
At face2faceHR, support continues well beyond launch through business coaching, conferences, training opportunities, practical resources and regular interaction with the wider consultant network.
The goal is not just to help someone start a business. It is to help them continue developing and growing throughout their consultancy journey.
Confidence grows when support is structured
One of the biggest benefits of structured support is confidence.
Many experienced HR professionals are more capable than they realise when they first consider consultancy. What they often need is reassurance that they are focusing on the right things at the right time.
Having a clear framework, practical guidance and access to experienced people can help remove much of the uncertainty that comes with a major career change.
As a result, consultants can focus their energy on building relationships, supporting clients and developing their business rather than worrying about what to do next.
For many people, that confidence is one of the most valuable forms of support they receive.
Looking ahead
Starting an HR consultancy is an exciting opportunity, but it is also a significant transition. While HR expertise provides a strong foundation, the support surrounding that expertise can often be what helps turn a consultancy into a successful and sustainable business.
At face2faceHR, we have built our training, coaching and support around the real experiences of HR professionals who have successfully made that journey before.
If you would like to learn more about how face2faceHR supports experienced HR professionals who are starting an HR consultancy and building a successful consultancy business, download our prospectus or get in touch to arrange an informal conversation with our team. We would be happy to answer your questions and help you explore your options.