4 TIPS ON HOW YOU CAN BECOME A CONSULTANT

Build your portfolio.

To establish credibility as an expert, it's important to show your track record by creating a portfolio, Conner says. "Talk about results you had while on the job," she adds. Showing a measurable impact of your work will allow businesses to see the potential for a return.

Part of building your portfolio includes creating a list of references and possibly reference letters that also speak to your skill and expertise. "Testimonials are crucial," Conner says. Don't hesitate to ask previous clients or bosses for reference letters that speak to your accomplishments.

Network, socially and beyond. Along with building a portfolio, leverage social networks to build your brand and online network. Creating a personal Website is easier than ever with services by free sites, such as WebHero.com. Once you sign up, Web Hero provides easy-to-use templates that allow you to upload your portfolio, content or other information. "If you don't want to do a full-fledged Web site, at least set up a blog and write about your expertise, Conner suggests. WordPress and Blogger also offer free blog setup.

Also, spruce up your LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and other social networking profiles, says Moser. Include a branded summary, your headshot and experience. Use other social-networking sites like Ziggs, Naymz and Ziki to increase your visibility by posting versions of your biography and headshot. Create a personal "branding kit" that includes business cards, resume, cover letters and portfolio. Also, create a "social media resume" which is a multi-media dossier that will give the potential hiring manager a layered and dimensional perspective on who you are and what you know. The networking method typically takes up to two months to get a bite, so don't get discouraged, Moser says.