Why in the World Would You Ever Want to be a Grantwriting Consultant?

A Guest Post by Betsy Baker of Your Grant Authority and a Guest Expert in the “Writing for Nonprofits” Coaching Program

When I was working full time for my nonprofit employer, I was married but didn’t have children. When my husband and I decided that our house was just a little too quiet (oh, what a rude awakening we were in for!), we decided that it would be great for me to stay at home with the baby but that I’d still need to contribute financially. I would be able to do this because I had a lot of experience as a grant writer and was already getting asked to do grant writing jobs on the side. I was hot!

I’d just stay at home and become a grant writing consultant. I had visions of putting the baby to bed, quietly getting my grant writing work completed along with a couple of loads of laundry, and then starting dinner with baby by my side. I don’t believe that once in the nine years that I have stayed at home has that happened.

First of all, it took Baby a little longer to arrive than expected – approximately seven years. I had quit full time in anticipation of getting pregnant which actually prepared me to get into a routine of consulting that worked for me and my husband. While dinner wasn’t served every night, for the most part the house was reasonably clean, there were clean clothes and there was always food in the refrigerator (or freezer – as in frozen dinner.) For some reason, Baby didn’t understand my routine once he got here. Sure, Baby slept. But I did too when he did. I was exhausted.

I’m proud to say that at age three, my not-so-Baby anymore, Rhodes and I have finally worked it out. Like any working mother, it has been trial and error to find what works for us. What I finally decided was maybe I could do half and half. He now has care 2 ½ days a week while I work and I get him the other 2 ½ to play. I love it and I think he’s no worse for the wear.

So, back to my original question, my answer is simple: the benefits outweigh any challenges I might face. This is what I dreamed of when I was working toward becoming a consultant and I haven’t been disappointed yet:

Being my own boss – Who has not dreamed of this? You know your worth to an organization better than anyone and it can be frustrating dealing with those in authority who don’t appreciate or understand your contribution.

Setting my own hours – Being a grant writing consultant basically means you have the ability to write at 3:00 a.m. if you so wish. Once the appropriate information has been gathered you have the freedom to write when the inspiration strikes. This is especially great for families with children giving you the flexibility to write during school hours (on top of carting to soccer practice, putting dinner on the table, etc., hence, the 3 a.m. time frame.)

Working with whom I choose – The beauty of having your own business is the capability to work with clients of your choice. Of course, when you’re first venturing into the consultant territory, you may not can afford to be so selective. As your business grows, however, you’ll find a certain field that you’re most interested in or develop selection criteria that helps you pick clients that suit your interests and abilities.

Client variety – Speaking of working with clients of your choice, as a grant writing consultant you have the freedom to work with a variety of clients. This situation is perfect for those who bore easily or are eager to work in different fields of expertise.

Working remotely – How does working in your pajamas sound? If you’ve never been one who relished fighting morning traffic to get to a job by 8:00 a.m., a consultant’s job is just right for you. Being a consultant doesn’t mean you never have to get dressed – you certainly wouldn’t want to show up at a potential client’s in a bathrobe and curlers. But a consultant not only can work across town, he or she can work across the country. With today’s technology all information can be exchanged electronically. You set the boundaries.

Minimal start up cost – Most homes today have a computer, internet provider and phone. Starting a home-based consulting business is certainly preferable if space allows since it keeps your costs at a minimum.

So, there it is. The beauty of being a Grant Writing Consultant. I personally think it’s all that it’s cracked up to be!