Consulting is what the client expects ;) As I work at a "real" consulting company maybe my experience isn't what you want, but I'd just suggest always focusing

Consulting is what the client expects ;) As I work at a "real" consulting company maybe my experience isn't what you want, but I'd just suggest always focusing on networking and remember you are separate from the company you are consulting for. You can and should say no to things you don't want to do; setting boundaries makes it easier for yourself and the client. Pay attention to what the client complains about, and try to think of how they're trying to do their job(or whoever is to use what you're working on.) Never annoy your main point of contact at a client beyond reasonable amounts. Try to focus on clients in your timezone first. It is fake and a lie until it is written down in a SoW with a corresponding budget. Have confidence in the product you give but make sure your first few deliverables are 'perfect' as it will make the client much more amiable to working with you again. No client will admit what they want unless they just got done having to deal with it.