Freelance business development consultant

Small and mid-sized companies, startups and local service firms that want more leads but cannot afford a full-time sales hire.

Monthly retainer per client, or a commission on deals you help close, sometimes a mix of a smaller retainer plus commission.

• Clear writing and phone manner
• Researching prospects and markets
• Following up consistently
• Understanding a client's product well enough to sell it

• Put every deal in a written contract covering scope, commission terms and how long commission lasts
• Check your state's rules on commission-only sales work and whether any licensing applies to the product you sell (some regulated products, like insurance or real estate, need a license)
• Consider general or professional liability insurance and a single-member LLC; check with your state
• Results depend on the client's product and follow-through, so avoid promising specific sales numbers
• Check HOA or lease rules if you work from home, and plan for self-employment taxes with the IRS

Startup costs are typically around $300 to $2,000, depending on your tools, insurance and how you set up the business. These are estimates, so check your own needs before spending.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many clients you have, your retainer terms and any deals won. These are estimates, and results depend on each client's product and follow-through.

Check your state's rules on commission-only sales work and whether licensing applies to the product you sell, since some regulated products, like insurance or real estate, need a license. Also put every deal in a written contract covering scope and commission terms.