Enjoy this post from the SSC Archives.
If you’ve been on our website and really want to become part of our consultant network, you know that there is one thing you should never, ever say. Ever.
Don’t know what it is?
Then you haven’t done your homework.
Sustainability consulting is a small world
If you’re trying to break into the world of sustainability consulting, then you need to truly strategize about how to engage with industry leaders, consultants, and firms who are hiring.
A recent article in Entrepreneur gives a round-up of the 10 strategies for making friends with important people in your networking plan.
The first five steps are all about research, reading, and making an effort to truly understand your potential contact’s business strategy and hot buttons. Next, activate your network, stay in touch, and add value to your potential contact’s day-to-day through meaningful communication.
Have the skills (or grow them)
While you’re “working the room” to build your professional network, make sure you fully understand what it takes to be a sustainability consultant. Know your own skill set and be able to describe how those skills will apply in a sustainability consulting roles.
Know your strengths, and your shortcomings
Don’t oversell yourself to a high-profile potential contact, or you might ruin your reputation before you gain a foothold. Be honest about where you are in your career, what your areas of interest are, and make efforts to improve your skills through practice and education.
Learn more about specific sustainability consulting training courses we offer, and opportunities to work with us.