So you’ve decided you want to start offering consulting services in a particular field but you don’t know where to start from and you have zero clients. What do you do?
I’ve got you.

The first thing you need to do is help potential clients find you. Often, we are focused on looking for clients (which is a good thing) but an easier thing is helping clients find you.
PS: This thread is assuming you already know the field you will be consulting in.

This means different things depending on your field. But generally, when your potential clients are looking for that service, where do they go to? Forums? Google? LinkedIn? Establish a presence there.

Providing value up front is one of the easiest ways to do this. Put together frequently asked questions in that field and break them down into educative posts. Bring your own spin to it. Educative content is one of the most effective ways of establishing expertise and trust.

Tell everyone you know about your new consulting practice. Even though you think people around you cannot patronize you, tell them still. They know other people. Most consultants get their first gig from personal referrals.

Have your elevator pitch ready. Everyone says this so you must have heard it several times. But as simple as it sounds, it is sometimes difficult to articulate. Here’s a simple formula I teach.
I help (who) to (result) by (how I do it).
I’ll give an example using a HR consultant

“I help startups scale by creating a recruitment strategy that enables them attract the best talents in the market.”

It should be bold enough for folks to be interested. Yet relatable & simple enough for people to understand. Too much jargon and people lose interest.

Finally, community is important. Attend industry events, collaborate etc. Do not isolate yourself. Community is a great way to keep a pulse on the industry & put your name out there so this piece should not be ignored.
The end. You are welcome!