The life of an independent Microsoft Dynamics consultant: How a NAV MVP has built a visible, balanced, busy career

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

Five years ago, Microsoft Dynamics NAV MVP Vjekoslav Babić  started his independent consulting career - and it was the best move he ever made.

Establishing a career as an independent Dynamics consultant is not without its challenges. But as Babić has learned, independent Dynamics consultants can use several effective tactics to improve the way they manage their careers, build a consistent work schedule, and minimize the risks that might concern someone new to the role.

Babić needs no introduction for many in the Dynamics NAV community thanks to his popular blog, articles, participation in various conferences and groups, and for holding Microsoft MVP status. He is an independent managing director at Fortempo, a Dynamics NAV advisory company in Croatia. He started the company in 2009 after having spent five years implementing NAV globally as a solutions architect and project manager for a Dynamics Presidents Club partner company, and two years as an NAV consultant in Microsoft Consulting Services.  His work encompasses project management, quality assurance, and functional consulting.

Where to start?

Like many newly independent consultants, Babić worried about how he would get his first client.

"I decided to play it safe," he said. "...