Microsoft Azure Consultant
Enterprise-focused cloud consulting specializing in Microsoft Azure platform for businesses in Microsoft ecosystems
Overview
Azure consulting targets enterprises and businesses already using Microsoft products like Office 365, Windows Server, SQL Server, and Active Directory.
You help organizations leverage Azure for infrastructure, platform services, and integrations with existing Microsoft investments.
Azure consultants typically work with larger enterprises given Microsoft's enterprise market share, commanding rates of $125-$250 per hour.
Services include Azure migration planning, hybrid cloud architecture combining on-premises with Azure, Azure Active Directory setup, Microsoft 365 integration, database migration, and governance implementation.
The Azure market differs from AWS - more enterprise-focused, more Windows-centric, deeper Microsoft stack integration.
Target clients include enterprises migrating from on-premises Microsoft infrastructure, organizations consolidating to cloud, businesses using Microsoft 365 needing Azure integration, and government agencies using Azure Government cloud.
Certifications include Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Azure Administrator, and specialty certifications in security or data.
Success requires understanding both Azure services and traditional Microsoft technologies, enterprise requirements like compliance and governance, and ability to work within large organizational structures.
Many Azure consultants transition from Microsoft system administrator or developer roles.
Required Skills
- Azure Platform
- Microsoft Ecosystem
- Enterprise Architecture
- Hybrid Cloud
- Governance
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Strong enterprise market share for Azure
- Integration with Microsoft products adds value
- Long-term enterprise engagements
- High billing rates for certified consultants
- Less commoditized than AWS consulting
Cons
- Requires enterprise Microsoft experience
- Longer sales cycles with enterprises
- May require security clearances for government work
- Smaller market than AWS overall
- Enterprise bureaucracy and approval processes
How to Get Started
- Gain Azure experience through Microsoft-heavy organization
- Earn Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification
- Understand enterprise Microsoft stack thoroughly
- Build case studies from migration or implementation projects
- Join Microsoft Partner Network
- Target industries with heavy Microsoft use (finance, healthcare, government)
- Develop expertise in hybrid cloud and Microsoft 365 integration
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