LinkedIn is the easiest way for expert networks to connect with professionals across different industry verticals. The first thing you need to ask yourself when you receive an expert network consulting request is if your schedule permits a one-hour consultation and whether you have the knowledge to contribute to the specific expert network consulting request. Most expert networks have a quick onboarding process so, whether you can help in a specific project or not you can still become part of the knowledge sharing community and share insights with future projects that arise and are aligned within your field of expertise.
To facilitate the process of receiving a request, a quick tip is to ensure that your Linkedin profile is “open” to receive Inmails as this increases the likelihood of receiving consulting opportunities. In certain circumstances, it may be the case where due to your NDA / employment contract you may not be able to participate in a one-on-one consulting engagement in which case it makes sense to simply decline the consultation and if possible, refer other members of your network that could amortise on this type of opportunity.
If you fall in this category, it might be worth onboarding on these types of platforms in the future when you are not subject to restrictions and hence are open to earn additional income. You may want to refer to our article of “Why should I join an expert network?”.
You may ask yourself what would be the next steps if you have already decided to participate? Ideally, it would make sense to start by reviewing the expert networks website and the requirements of the project. Once you have reviewed this you would have to set up your profile with an hourly consulting rate and ensure you review the NDA that you would be required to sign. The most important aspect from this point till the scheduled call would be to clear your thoughts on each aspect of the vetting questions to best help the end client make better decisions without compromising on compliance.
You may think that this seems like an easy task which is too good to be true, the chance to make hundreds of dollars for an hour for simply sharing insights gained within your work experiences. Don’t let your second thought play in, the reason consulting is paid well is because knowledge is extremely valuable these days. Especially knowledge that is quickly transmitted by the right type of expert. This saves the client the cost of having to hire employees from different sectors in order to complete their research.
IS EXPERTISE OBTAINED THROUGH EXPERT NETWORKS LEGAL?
Obtaining insights from experts is completely legal if rigorous compliance protocols are set and followed. Golden Apple has created a meticulous compliance document that is sent to each expert before conducting a call and ensures that each expert signs an NDA to ensure that they are compliant with standard industry practices.
