From Clinician to Consultant: The Business Foundations That Build a Thriving Ergonomics Practice

Most healthcare professionals who move into ergonomics consulting don't struggle with the science — they struggle with the business. In this episode, Darcie Jaremey draws on insights from a conversation with Erin, a Canadian ergonomist who left clinical rehab to build her own consulting practice, to explore the gap between clinical competence and commercial sustainability.Darcie unpacks the current state of the global ergonomics market — valued at $900 million in 2025 and growing — and explains why the demand for qualified consultants has never been higher. From the hidden costs of workplace musculoskeletal injuries to tightening government regulations worldwide, the opportunity is real.You'll also hear the practical business-building systems every ergonomics consultant should have in place before they're busy — including a standardized assessment template, a clear pricing structure, a simple report format, and a 60-second elevator pitch. Plus, Darcie covers the bootstrapping mindset that helps new consultants build profitability sustainably, without chasing investors or burning out on underpriced contracts.What you'll learn in this episode:•       Why the global ergonomics market is accelerating — and how to position yourself to capture it•       The real cost of workplace MSDs and how to use that data in client conversations•       What bootstrapping means for ergonomics consultants (and why it works)•       The foundational systems to build before you land your first client•       How affinity marketing and networking can grow your practice faster than adsWhether you're just getting started or looking to bring more structure to an existing practice, this episode gives you a clear, grounded framework for building a consulting business that lasts.If you're a healthcare professional and this episode got your wheels turning about office ergonomics - good. I've got free resources to help you take the next step at ergonomicshelp.com/resources.