The life of an independent Microsoft Dynamics consultant: Embracing the unexpected is part of job, a CRM MVP finds

Editor's Note: The following is part of a series examining best practices for working as an independent Dynamics consultant, as shared by field veterans

Microsoft Dynamics CRM MVP Larry Lentz has been an independent consultant since December 1989, when he founded Lentz Computer Services in San Antonio to provide onsite computer support for small business clients. In that time he has learned that managing a career in the Dynamics ecosystem requires a willingness to embrace unexpected, like a shift in focus from implementation services to training.

Lentz specialized in CRM products starting with ACT! in the very early '90s, moving to GoldMine in the late '90s, and Microsoft Dynamics CRM in 2004. Before starting his own firm, Lentz had worked at Electronic Data Systems for seven years, designing, developing, and maintaining a computer information system for the U.S. Army Medical Treatment Facilities worldwide.

Lentz says he arrived at his current role as an in-demand Dynamics CRM trainer through one unexpected request for on-site training in 2006. It was not a role had fulfilled done before.

"It was a baptism by heavy fire," Lentz said.

After that first teaching gig, Lentz's business began heating up on the training side. As a Microsoft Certified Trainer and a Microsoft Trainer in Dynamics CRM, Lentz now teaches all of the Microsoft official curriculum courses for CRM.

Choose where - and where not - to focus

Making the decision to specialize, as Lentz has, can require a ...