Define Niche and Offer
3-5 daysPackage expertise into fixed-scope offers with clear deliverables and timeline.
Field context
This workflow is part of 4 niche fields
Free step-by-step consulting business setup for consultants. Plan consulting business with calculators and checklists covering define niche and offer, set.
Package expertise into fixed-scope offers with clear deliverables and timeline.
Calculate hourly and project rates from income target, billable hours, and overhead.
Use MSA/SOW templates, net-30 terms, and professional invoice workflow.
Plan SE tax, quarterly estimates, and optional S-corp election threshold.
Derive minimum hourly rate from income and billable hours.
Create professional invoices with payment terms.
Estimate SE tax on consulting net income.
Schedule quarterly estimated tax payments.
Compare W-2 equivalent when setting day rate.
Typical US B2B consulting ranges.
| Level | Hourly Range | Day Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist | $100-175 | $800-1400 |
| Senior | $175-300 | $1400-2400 |
| Partner | $300-500+ | $2400+ |
Deposit filters serious clients and protects cash flow.
Sales and admin eat 35-50% of week — rate must cover it.
3-5% increase or scope reduction maintains margin against inflation.