If any of this resonates with you, you’re not alone. Many people who’ve had successful careers in the government and/or community services sector make the transition to consulting but face these and other similar struggles. In reality, making the move from excellent employee to excellent consultant is not all smooth sailing.

After a decade working in the public health sector, I started my solo consulting business in 2000 and have never looked back. I specialise in providing expert advice to address complex issues in health organisations, and in evaluating the effectiveness of health services and programs.

When I started out as a consultant I was lucky enough to have a mentor to guide me. I’d already enjoyed a successful career so I had plenty of skills and experience under my belt. I had networks and contacts and an excellent reputation. Despite this, I realised pretty quickly that I knew basically nothing about consulting. But the steep learning curve was made much easier working under the guidance of a great mentor who generously inducted me into the world of consulting in my first year.