What is a consulting agreement?

A consulting agreement is a contract for freelancers who provide expert advice, strategy, or guidance rather than producing tangible deliverables. If you're a marketing consultant, business strategist, UX researcher, or any kind of advisor, this is your go-to template.

Consulting work is different from project-based freelancing. The value is in your thinking, not a final file. That makes scoping and billing trickier, which is exactly why a clear contract matters.

When should you use one?

When you're being paid for your expertise and recommendations - strategy workshops, audits, research, advisory sessions, training, or ongoing strategic support. If the client is paying for your brain rather than your hands, use this.

What's included

Engagement scope - what you'll advise on, the approach you'll take, and the expected outputs (e.g. strategy document, audit report, workshop facilitation).

Fee structure - hourly, daily, or project-based rates. Includes provisions for travel time, preparation time, and expenses.

Implementation disclaimer - clarifies that you're providing advice, not guaranteeing results. The client is responsible for implementing your recommendations.

Confidentiality - mutual protection for sensitive business information shared during the engagement.

Non-compete considerations - whether you can work with the client's competitors during or after the engagement. Keep this reasonable.

Intellectual property - who owns the frameworks, templates, and strategies you create. Typically, bespoke work transfers to the client, but your pre-existing methodologies stay yours.