High School

If you are considering a career as an Internet consultant, you should take a college preparatory curriculum that includes computer science and business courses. Suggested computer classes include computer programming, Web design, database management, computer security, and computer network administration. You should also take courses that help you to develop your analytical and problem-solving skills such as mathematics (including algebra and geometry), philosophy, and sciences (including chemistry and physics). Take English courses to develop the research and communication skills you'll need for this profession. 

Postsecondary Training

While a college degree may not be necessary to gain entry into this field, you will find it easier to get the best jobs and advance if you have one. The high-tech market has become more sophisticated and competitive, and consultants with degrees generally have more opportunities than those with a high school diploma. Some people enter the field with computer- or e-commerce-related degrees; others have a liberal arts or business background that includes computer studies. No matter what your major, though, you should take plenty of computer classes, study programming, and play on the Web.

Because consultants are usually responsible for marketing themselves, you should have good business skills and knowledge of marketing and sales, as well as computer knowledge. Therefore, take business and management classes, as well as economics and marketing. The consultant with a broad educational background may have the inside edge in certain situations. More and more clients are looking for consultants who can offer "value-added" services such as business analysis and marketing assistance along with computer skills.

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer certificates in programming, computer networking, cyber security, web design, software development, hardware engineering, artificial intelligence, and other areas in which consultants must have knowledge. Contact schools in your area to learn more about available programs. 

Other Education or Training

The Association for Computing Machinery, IEEE Computer Society, Information Architecture Institute, International Web Association, and WebProfessionals.org offer continuing education classes and webinars that will help you to keep your skills up to date and learn about new technology. 

Certification or Licensing

There are numerous certifications and designations available in programming languages, software, information security, web design, and network administration. Some employers may require that consultants have certain certifications. To become certified you will probably have to complete a training course and pass a written exam. Often the company that puts out a new technology, such as new software, will sponsor a training program.

The Institute for the Certification of Computing Professionals offers a variety of IT-related certification credentials, including: certified computing professional, associate computing professional, certified business intelligence professional, certified information technology professional, and information systems analyst. To become certified, you must pass various written exams and fulfill certain work experience requirements. WebProfessionals.org offers the certified web consultant-small business credential. Many other organizations—such as (ISC)², SANS Institute, and CompTIA—offer certification. Contact these organizations for more information. 

Aspiring Internet consultants should participate in at least one internship during college to gain valuable experience and allow them to make industry contacts, which could lead to a job offer after graduation. You should also learn as much as you can about computer software and hardware and the Internet.

Internet consultants must be lifelong learners. You should have the desire and initiative to keep up on new technology, software, and hardware. You must also have good communication skills, including good listening skills. Creativity and a good eye for digital design are also desirable. Because Internet consultants deal with many different people in various lines of work, they must be flexible and have good interpersonal skills. To be a successful consultant, you should be self-motivated and have the ability to work alone as well as with groups. You also need to have the patience and perseverance to see projects through.