The field of information technology offers many career options. These career paths include programmer, technician, engineer, project manager, software developer, and many more. Cloud computing is an area of information technology that has seen tremendous and consistent growth. Choosing to pursue a career in cloud computing is a wise choice. Here are five ways to help you position your career as a cloud computing consultant.
Understand the Cloud Computing Platform Industry
Cloud computing is a series of web-connected servers and hosted software accessed from any online point. There are many cloud computing companies that an organization can partner with to migrate their business services to the cloud. Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a well-known provider offering many high-level cloud computing services, such as AWS Acceleration tools.
Knowing all the companies that work in the cloud computing field will be vital in helping to drive your consulting work. Although one cloud computing provider may be a perfect fit for one organization, it may not be a fit for another company. Your job as a cloud computing consultant will help organizations to decide the best fit for their needs. Many companies don’t want to hire a full-time person, so your availability as a consultant will be attractive to their needs.
Understand the Required Certifications
Certifications are critical elements to have in your toolbox. Many people work within the competitive information technology industry. You need to be able to separate yourself from others, and certifications show a commitment on your part to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise. Many online position advertisements will list certification requirements, so use this information to guide what relevant certifications are in demand. The playing field for certifications can change quickly in information technology, so you must be diligent in your research.
Understand the Balance of Managing Your Consulting Business
When you decide to work as a consultant, you must balance your work and business management responsibilities. Placement firms take a portion of your pay, but they also perform most of the administrative functions so that you can focus on your work. Some consultants partner with placement firms, and others branch out independently to recruit their clients. If you choose to branch out on your own, you need to be mindful of sales, deadlines, financial decisions, insurance, taxes, and other essential items many people overlook.
Understand How to Position Your Skills and Background
With all your certifications and experience, finding a specialty area for your services is an approach to consider. This approach is a fine line to separate yourself from others because you don’t want to box yourself in a corner. Some companies want consultants, engineers, or others that can perform all roles, while others want specialized cloud computing personnel. Research the organizations and their track records before you commit. Position requirements across multiple companies will show trends and what each company is looking for in its next hire.
Understand and Practice Discipline As the Cloud Computing Industry Quickly Evolves
Companies are always looking to save money and accomplish work faster. That fact will never change. Consulting work is a risk-reward business. The risk is that funding may be cut or delayed, and the hiring organization can let you go anytime for any reason. The reward is higher pay because they don’t have to pay you benefits. Consulting can feel like you are on a roller-coaster ride.
Cloud computing consulting is a demanding job with tremendous pressure to perform and deliver. If you are comfortable and thrive in these pressure situations, cloud computing may be an excellent fit for your future. Once you start a project, your reputation is on the line, so ensure you have the right fit. You want to do your due diligence to partner with the right company from the start. A bad relationship will lead to poor results and a lost opportunity for you to grow your business as a cloud computing consultant.
