Internal Communications Consultant
Run internal comms for growing scale-ups on a fractional retainer
Run internal comms for growing scale-ups on a fractional retainer.
As an Internal Communications Consultant, your day-to-day work involves developing and implementing communication strategies tailored to the needs of scale-ups. You will create templates and frameworks for internal newsletters, updates, and team meetings, ensuring messages are clear and cohesive. You'll work closely with HR leaders to assess communication challenges and provide ongoing support, all while managing multiple clients on a fractional retainer basis.
The demand for effective internal communications has surged, particularly as companies scale and remote work becomes more prevalent. With many businesses recognising that clear communication boosts employee engagement and retention, there’s a ripe opportunity to step in and fill this gap. Scale-ups are particularly in need of structured internal comms as they navigate rapid growth and team integration.
A successful founder in this space is likely to have a background in HR, communications, or business management. You should be comfortable with strategic thinking and possess strong writing skills. Realistically, expect to dedicate 10-15 hours per week to initial client acquisition and service delivery, ramping up as you secure more clients and refine your offerings.
In 12-24 months, you could establish a solid client base of 5-10 scale-ups, generating £10k-£50k in monthly revenue. With effective processes and tools in place, you could hire subcontractors or expand your service offerings, further increasing your revenue potential and market reach.
- Comms
- Strategy
£2k–£5k/mo per client
You can expect a gross margin of around 70-80%, as your primary costs will be time and minimal overhead.
The UK labour market is increasingly competitive, and businesses are investing in employee engagement strategies to reduce turnover. With the rise of hybrid working models, effective internal communications have never been more crucial for maintaining morale and cohesion.
Your primary customers are HR leaders and executives at scale-ups with 50-200 employees. They are often stretched thin and seek expert support to enhance their internal communications without the overhead of a full-time hire.
The UK internal communications market is growing, with businesses increasingly recognising the importance of communication in driving employee engagement. According to a recent report, 70% of employees feel more engaged when they receive regular updates from leadership, highlighting a significant opportunity for consultants in this space.
Revenue & pricing
You will charge clients a monthly retainer based on the scope of services provided, typically ranging from £2k to £5k depending on the complexity and frequency of communication needs.
- Basic Package: £2,000/month for quarterly strategy sessions and monthly newsletters.
- Standard Package: £3,500/month for bi-weekly updates, strategy sessions, and team engagement initiatives.
- Premium Package: £5,000/month for weekly communication support, crisis management, and comprehensive strategy development.
- Custom Package: Starting from £2,500/month tailored to specific client needs and frequency.
Costs
- Website domain and hosting100
- Marketing materials (flyers, business cards)150
- Professional liability insurance200
- Initial software subscriptions (e.g., Notion)50
- Networking and industry event attendance0
- Website maintenance10
- Software subscriptions (Notion, Zoom)40
- Marketing (ads, networking)100
- Professional memberships20
First steps
- 1Build template + framework
- 2Pitch HR leaders
- 3Charge retainer
Your first 90 days
- Create a professional website outlining your services and expertise.
- Develop a portfolio of sample internal communications materials.
- Identify and reach out to potential clients in your network.
- Gather testimonials from past colleagues or clients to build credibility.
- Join relevant LinkedIn groups and forums to engage with target clients.
- Secure at least 1-2 clients and begin delivering services.
- Refine your service offerings based on client feedback.
- Establish a routine for client communication and reporting.
- Expand your online presence through content marketing and networking.
- Assess your pricing structure and adjust based on market feedback.
How to get customers
Use targeted ads and organic posts to attract scale-ups.
Networking events
Attend industry events to connect with HR leaders.
Referral programs
Offer incentives to existing clients for referrals.
Webinars
Host free webinars on internal communication best practices.
Tools you'll actually use
| Tool | Cost | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tide (business banking) | Free | Simple banking to manage income and expenses. |
| Notion | £8/month | For managing client projects and communications. |
| Zoom | £11.99/month | For virtual client meetings and consultations. |
| Canva | Free | For creating marketing materials and visuals. |
| Xero | £10/month | For invoicing and bookkeeping. |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Underestimating the time required for client onboarding and strategy development.
- Failing to clearly define service offerings and pricing upfront.
- Neglecting to follow up with potential leads and clients.
- Overlooking the importance of ongoing client feedback.
- Not investing enough time in personal branding and marketing.
How to scale this
- 1Start as a solo consultant serving 1-2 clients.
- 2Gradually increase your client base through referrals and networking.
- 3Outsource administrative tasks to free up time for client work.
- 4Consider hiring additional consultants as your client load increases.
Risks & mitigations
Difficulty in acquiring clients
Focus on building a strong network and referral system.
Client retention challenges
Provide exceptional service and regularly seek feedback.
Market saturation
Differentiate your services by specialising in specific industries.
Time management issues
Implement robust project management tools to stay organised.
UK legal & compliance
- Register as self-employed with HMRC and maintain accurate records for tax purposes.
- Consider professional indemnity insurance to protect against potential claims.
- Ensure compliance with GDPR when handling client data and communications.
- Stay informed about any relevant licences or certifications in the communications field.
FAQ
What qualifications do I need to be an internal communications consultant?
While formal qualifications can help, experience in HR or communications is often more valuable.
How do I find clients?
Networking, LinkedIn, and industry events are effective ways to connect with potential clients.
What if I don’t have a portfolio?
Create sample communications and use past experiences to demonstrate your skills.
How do I set my rates?
Research competitors and consider your expertise and the value you provide to clients.
Can I do this part-time?
Yes, many consultants start part-time while building their client base.
Written and maintained by
Business Pathfinder Editorial TeamEditorial research and publishing team
The Business Pathfinder Editorial Team researches and maintains practical guides for UK founders.
Guides are reviewed against relevant primary sources where practical. Financial, legal and tax content is general information, not personal advice.
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