> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://imerit-docs.gitbook.io/scholars/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://imerit-docs.gitbook.io/scholars/selection-and-onboarding/consultant-expectations.md).

# Consultant Expectations

### Advice for new consultants

**Many of our consultants are first-time freelancers, or have limited experience in the world of consulting. If this applies to you, please read the important points below.**

### 1. **Projects and start dates can shift**

**Provisional vs. Confirmed**: Until you receive a [Statement of Work](/scholars/getting-started/statement-of-work.md) (SOW) from us and sign it, **no upcoming project is guaranteed**. Clients’ needs and timelines can change, and we want to ensure you’re protected from any last-minute surprises. See our [Project Status](/scholars/selection-and-onboarding/project-status.md) explanation for details.

**Expect Changes**: Even after you start a project, the hours or scope can shift. This is normal in the freelance world, where clients often revise requirements mid-project.

### 2. **Avoid premature commitments**

{% hint style="danger" %}
**Don’t quit your day job** (just yet!): Never leave your current position or make financial decisions (e.g., joining a new co-working space, buying equipment) based on a project starting, before you have a fully signed Statement of Work. 
{% endhint %}

**Signed SOW = Formal Go-Ahead**: Once the SOW is in place, you can proceed with more confidence. However, remember that this still isn’t a guarantee of long-term work—freelance engagements can be unpredictable by nature. Review our Selection & Onboarding page for more explanation of the process.

### 3. **Hours commitment and notice period**

**Not a guarantee of hours:** Many of our contracts specify a maximum or expected number of hours work per day, rather than a guarantee. Our client may not have a sufficient volume of work to fill these hours, and so you should not treat this as a guarantee of work. As you become more familiar with the project and its workload, you will have more predictability of the hours required.

**7-Day Window**: If a client needs to reduce hours, change the project scope, or end the contract early, our standard notice period is **7 days**. This means that you should be prepared for the possibility of a project wrapping up sooner than originally expected.

### 4. **Stay flexible and prepared**

**Freelance Reality**: Experienced freelancers know that being flexible is key. Project timelines, client requirements, and workloads can and do change.

**Open Communication**: We’re always here to help clarify project details. If something changes, we’ll update you as soon as possible, so you can plan accordingly.

### 5. **Support and Resources**

If you have any questions about how a project is shaping up, reach out to the team who has been in contact with you. If you are not sure who to contact, visit our [Support](/scholars/support.md) page. We want you to feel empowered and prepared—never hesitate to ask for clarification or express concerns.