Credibility is the single most important asset a consultant has.
Whether you are young or old, new or experienced, you build credibility with clients and economic buyers by providing value. You provide value by striving to improve the condition of the people around you. You can by providing useful information or frameworks, and by offering honest feedback when asked. You always need to come across as professional–this means show up on time, be prepared, and dress appropriately–among other things.
Even if you do not have clients, you can strengthen your credibility through professional development, the creation of intellectual capital (articles, newsletters, speeches etc), and through pro bono work in your community.
In fact, I would recommend that whether you are an independent consultant, an employee of a large organization, or even someone temporarily out of the workforce, you should be constantly striving to build credibility and strengthen your personal brand as a professional.
