Learn How to Succeed as a Consultant in Silicon Valley

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--PATCA presents a workshop designed to help new consultants rapidly establish a solid foundation from which to grow a thriving professional practice. This workshop also will provide insight for individuals contemplating consulting as a viable career choice.

Many experienced business and technology experts turn to consulting during periods of high unemployment, sometimes just to help pay the bills. However, like small businesses in general, only a few will become profitable and survive tough economic times. This workshop will outline the qualities of a successful consultant and will explain the steps required to establish a credible practice.

The workshop is designed for both new and aspiring consultants, including those who have purposefully chosen consulting as their career path, and those who have been considering this lifestyle as an alternative to conventional employment in an elusive job market.

Topics covered in this half-day session include:

Defining a value proposition

Identifying potential clients

Pricing models for professional services

Structuring a consulting business

Setting up business records

Planning for taxes, benefits, and legal compliance

Marketing to land new clients

Attendees will leave the session with answers to their most challenging questions and valuable insights about the world of consulting.

The panel presenters include PATCA members from the fields of technology, HR, and marketing: Joel Williams, Carole Edman, and Helen Kennedy. They are all successful consultants with over 10 years of experience running independent practices.

Workshop Details:
November 12, 2010 - 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Reservations requested by November 9.
Advance registration: $65 for non-members, $30 for PATCA members
At the door: $75 for non-members, $40 for PATCA members (space available)
Keypoint Credit Union, 2805 Bowers Ave., Santa Clara, CA 95051

To register online, visit www.PATCA.org. For more information, or to make a reservation, contact PATCA at 800-747-2822 or info@patca.org.

About the Presenters:

Joel Williams of emLinux specializes in developing custom software for embedded computer systems and communications protocols. Williams has been in consulting for over 20 years, served as PATCA President, and now actively mentors new consultants. His work incorporates a wide range of technologies including Wi-Fi wireless protocols and network switches. Williams has participated in the development of industry standards, and has designed product certification testing programs. He also provides patent review, litigation support, forensic analysis and expert witness services in legal matters.

Carole Edman, SPHR, founded HR Manager To Go Consultants over 20 years ago to help businesses prevent high turnover, avoid costly mistakes, comply with ever-changing employment laws, and retain great employees. Formerly HR Director in high-tech companies, she now provides assessments, employee handbooks, best practices, coaching, and guidance for clients. She also works with legal counsel on risk prevention strategies and investigations of harassment or discrimination complaints. Edman’s HR consulting services have been utilized by over 100 clients in high-tech, biotech, and no-tech industries.

Helen Kennedy, of Kennedy Consulting Services LLC, has 15 years of international marketing, business, and technology experience, with special expertise in delivering effective web and marketing strategies. She is the chief architect for all KCS projects, bringing together team members with the skills and talents required for each client project. Kennedy has managed large-scale projects for major organizations and companies, and previously served as Director of Business Development at Nimbus Design, Director of Web Development for GNX / Agentrics, and Director of Internet Development worldwide for Adecco SA.

About PATCA:

PATCA is a nonprofit professional association of independent consultants and principals. Since its founding in 1975, PATCA members have been highly respected for their professionalism, integrity, objectivity and competence. They include experts in all aspects of business and technology, and serve clients in many industries throughout the U.S. and the world. PATCA offers a free Post a Project referral service for clients searching for an expert consultant. It also provides business leads, project referrals, and consulting education to its consultant members. PATCA's mailing address is P.O. Box 2261, Santa Clara, CA 95055. For more information, visit http://www.patca.org.