Discover how self-employed HR operations experts can maintain a steady income through diversification and strategic planning.

I recommend that you think in recurring activities: instead of offering one-off services, think how you could offer them once every month or quarter and contract for a year. That makes it more predictable and ensures you have a t least some continuous work to pay the bills!

Last updated on Oct 2, 2024

Here's how you can maintain a steady income as a self-employed HR operations expert.

Navigating the realm of self-employment can be daunting, but as a self-employed HR operations expert, you have the unique opportunity to craft a career that fits your lifestyle while maintaining a steady income. Your expertise in human resources (HR) operations is invaluable to organizations that require guidance without the overhead of a full-time employee. In this article, you'll discover practical strategies to ensure your financial stability, from diversifying your client base to leveraging technology, all while honing your craft and staying ahead of industry trends.

1 Diversify Clients

To maintain a steady income, it's crucial to diversify your client base. This means not putting all your eggs in one basket but instead working with a variety of clients from different industries and sectors. By doing so, you reduce the risk of financial instability should one client no longer require your services. Networking, both online and in-person, can help you expand your reach. Engage with professional groups, attend industry events, and participate in online forums to connect with potential clients who can benefit from your HR operations expertise.

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Nadine Schomacker

HR Expert | Trainer | Coach | Scrum Master | Championing Positive Work Environments & Neuroinclusion 🧠
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Consistent client communication and staying ahead of trends have been crucial for maintaining strong relationships and delivering value. For those just starting, focus on building your personal brand through reliable service and industry knowledge. And don't underestimate the power of continuous learning—keeping your skills sharp not only benefits your clients but also positions you as a top player in an ever-evolving field.

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Yuri Kruman 🇮🇱

Fractional CHRO + Leadership Executive Coach trusted by Fortune 500, Tech and SMBs | I build People Ops (fka HR) functions well-aligned with biz goals via talent, systems and process. GTM + M&A Strategy for HR Techs.
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Whatever your sources of eyeballs and conversations, you can’t expect a steady flow of clients unless you’re highly specialized, the top expert or most well-known content creator in your niche, an effective networker and a keen closer. The market is highly fractionated and there’s a glut of self-employed HR consultants, most of whom can’t hack it for long. HR is a hard sell, as a “pull” business, unless you’re specifically selling benefits or comp consulting, do recruiting or otherwise save money or directly generate revenue. Whatever else you do within HR consulting, it’s always helpful to have those “basic,” tactical things you can do to generate revenue reliably.

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2 Offer Packages

Creating service packages can provide clients with clear options and help stabilize your income. Design packages that cater to different needs, such as a basic HR audit, ongoing compliance support, or full-service HR management. This approach not only makes it easier for clients to understand what they're getting but also allows you to predict your income based on the services you're providing each month. Remember to price these packages competitively while reflecting the value you bring to the table.

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Anita Lettink

Future of Work Speaker | Payroll & HR Tech Expert | Pay Transparency | Author | Linkedin Top Voice
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I recommend that you think in recurring activities: instead of offering one-off services, think how you could offer them once every month or quarter and contract for a year. That makes it more predictable and ensures you have a t least some continuous work to pay the bills!

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3 Upskill Regularly

In the ever-evolving field of HR operations, staying abreast of the latest trends and regulations is essential. Regularly upskilling ensures that you remain a valuable resource to your clients. Take advantage of online courses, webinars, and certifications to enhance your knowledge and skills. Not only does this improve your service offering, but it also demonstrates to clients that you are committed to excellence and staying ahead in your field, making you an indispensable asset.

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4 Leverage Technology

Utilize the latest HR technology to streamline your operations and offer superior service. This could include human resource information systems (HRIS), applicant tracking systems (ATS), or employee engagement tools. By incorporating these technologies into your services, you can work more efficiently, manage multiple clients with ease, and provide insights and analytics that add value to your offerings. Moreover, being proficient in these tools can set you apart from competitors.

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5 Build Relationships

Strong client relationships are the backbone of any successful freelance business. As a self-employed HR operations expert, it's important to go beyond transactional interactions and build lasting partnerships with your clients. This means being proactive in addressing their needs, offering customized solutions, and regularly checking in to ensure their satisfaction. Happy clients are more likely to provide repeat business, referrals, and testimonials—all of which can lead to a more stable income.

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6 Manage Finances

Effective financial management is key to maintaining a steady income. This includes setting aside money for taxes, saving for periods of reduced work, and tracking your expenses meticulously. Consider using accounting software to keep your finances in order and consult with a financial advisor to plan for your long-term financial health. By being diligent with your finances, you can ensure that you are prepared for any fluctuations in income and can continue to invest in growing your HR operations business.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can maintain a steady income as a self-employed HR operations expert.

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1 Diversify Clients

2 Offer Packages

3 Upskill Regularly

4 Leverage Technology

5 Build Relationships

6 Manage Finances

7 Here’s what else to consider

HR Operations

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Here's how you can maintain a steady income as a self-employed HR operations expert.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Diversify Clients

2 Offer Packages

3 Upskill Regularly

4 Leverage Technology

5 Build Relationships

6 Manage Finances

7 Here’s what else to consider

HR Operations

Rate this article

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