If you’ve been wondering how to become an IT consultant, you’re in the right place.
Whether you’re a fresh graduate, someone stuck in a helpdesk role, or a mid-career IT pro looking to pivot—this post is for you. These aren’t generic fluff tips. This is hard-earned advice based on over 15 years in the IT consulting world.
Oh, and if you’re serious about making the leap, I’ve got a full course for IT professionals that walks you step-by-step through the transition. Check it out at edu.hout.com.
Now for some juicy data and straight talk:
1. New Graduate? Here’s What You Should Expect
Let’s talk numbers first, because that’s what everyone wants to know.
- If you’re a new grad with no experience, a decent full-time offer is $50K–$70K/year.
- If you’re looking at HelpDesk roles, expect around $40K/year.
- Got a Master’s degree? You can typically start around $60K/year.
Money isn’t everything, but having realistic salary expectations early on helps you make better career moves down the road.
2. No Experience? Do a COOP or Internship—Seriously.
If you’re in university and not doing a COOP or internship, you’re leaving opportunities on the table. Most schools have a career placement department. Use it. These folks are often well-connected and genuinely helpful.
Also—fix your CV. Especially if you’re an immigrant, Canadian CVs (or American ones) are formatted differently than in many other countries. Ask for help, review good examples, and tailor it for the local market.
3. Projects > GPA
Here’s a truth bomb:
Your GPA doesn’t matter as much as you think.
What matters? Projects.
When I’m hiring or consulting for clients who are hiring, I look for people who built stuff—web apps, automation scripts, dashboards, even open-source contributions. Projects tell me you’re hungry to learn and ready to solve real problems.
Want to become an IT consultant? Prove you can solve things before someone hires you to do it.
4. Six Figures? Yes, But…
Can you earn $100K+ in IT?
Yes. But here’s the kicker: it usually takes around 5 years if and only if you keep improving your skills.
That means:
- Staying updated with tech trends
- Learning about cloud, cybersecurity, or data engineering
- Getting certifications strategically (more on that in another post)
- Saying yes to uncomfortable growth opportunities
5. Don’t Get Stuck in HelpDesk
Starting in Tech Support or HelpDesk is fine. In fact, it can be a great launchpad. But too many people get comfortable and stay there.
Here’s my advice:
- Stay 1–2 years max
- Work on certifications and side projects while you’re there
- Use the experience to pivot into roles like system admin, cloud support, DevOps, or junior consulting roles
HelpDesk is a start, not a destination.
6. Hourly Consulting Rates? Here’s the Breakdown
Thinking of making the jump to consulting? Let’s talk real rates.
- As a new IT consultant, you can expect $50–$70/hour on your first few contracts.
- With more experience and a solid portfolio, you’ll start commanding $100+/hour.
This is the stage where things get fun—and where time becomes your most valuable asset.
That’s why I built a course to help IT pros make that leap into consulting faster and smarter.
👉 Check it out here: edu.hout.com
Final Thoughts
Becoming an IT consultant isn’t just about technical skills—it’s a mindset shift.
You’re not just solving problems anymore; you’re positioning yourself as a trusted advisor who brings value and clarity. You’re helping organizations make smarter decisions with technology.
It’s a rewarding path. A flexible one. And yes, a profitable one.
If you’re ready to start the transition or level up, check out the course at edu.hout.com.
And if you found this helpful, consider subscribing to my newsletter or following along on YouTube and Twitter (@hout)—I regularly share real-world insights, project breakdowns, and career advice that you won’t find in textbooks.
See you on the other side of your next career move.
– Hout