A lot of consultants put all of their time and energy into becoming an expert in their field. They undergo training and practice, but they don’t invest time or energy into learning how to get clients and grow their consulting businesses. Instead of wasting that time, money and effort on advertising, here are a few tips and tricks (by no means comprehensive) for successful promotions that will result in an increase in business and revenue, which is what really matters at the end of the day for all consultants:

• Facebook page: in addition to your personal page, start a business page for your consulting practice (free and easy) and use it to promote what you are working on but also to share information.

• Twitter: create an account and share your own thoughts but also share relevant stories in the field you are calling yourself an expert in.

• Blog: There are a variety of sites you can set up a blog at, but the big five are WordPress, Posterous, Blogger, Tumblr and SquareSpace. The ability to customize the layout and sharing features makes it considerably easier to cross-publish this content.

• LinkedIn: Obviously, you should have a profile, but join relevant groups or start a group of your own and organize questions, topics and event in-person meetings.

• Website: It’s pretty hard to sell your business in 2011 without a well-designed, working website. Luckily, domain names are cheap on sites like GoDaddy.com and you can use a variety of free web design services to make it look like you really know what you’re doing, even if you know little to nothing about HTML.

• Consulting Associations: Depending on the field you are in, you may need a certification to promote yourself as legitimate. Check out the Institute of Management Consultants USA to see what might be required in your field.

• Speak at Events: There is no better way to promote yourself than to get in front of a room full of people (both existing and potential clients) and speak on a topic you are an expert in. You’ll add serious credibility and get great audio/video clips that you can post to your website.

These are just some simple tips. Being a successful consultant takes hard work, commitment and in the early days a lack of sleep. But if you do it the right way, you can gain business without ever spending a dime.