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Tips for Starting a Software Consulting Firm?

Posted by Cliff on from the hints-for-those-at-square-one dept.

An Anonymous pre-Consultant asks: "I'm considering starting my own software consulting firm and was wondering if people would be interested in sharing their own experiences in trying such a thing. I've wanted to do this since 1995, and have read numerous books (Bernard Kamoroff's _Small Time Operator_, etc.). I'm fairly young, in my 20's, but have a good track record, and strong oral and written communications skills. I feel like I can make it happen but am a bit lost as to whether or not there are any specific resources for those who wish to consult as software engineers, and what strategies should be used to construct a client base. I'm not sure that my contacts are as diverse as they should be."

"My key selling points include the ability to construct complex systems relatively quickly, an iterative approach to creating the end product by means of continuous interaction with the client as milestones are reached, since I realize clients don't always know what they want until some test code has been constructed. Honesty, fixed bids, and ability to create more than just software (graphics, documentation, hardware, etc.) are also characteristics I feel makes me unique.

I have done some 'web programming' consulting as a moonlighter, but I don't really want to do just web projects. I'm not interested in trying to get rich quick, just interested in making enough to live comfortably on, without the politics and problems of the corporate America workplace. Thanks for any advice or tips!"

2 of 15 comments (clear)

  1. Sure, I'll help ya! by gnovos · · Score: 5, Funny

    I would be happy to be a consultant for you and give you tips on how to start up your consultant company, however, I'm waiting for my Ask Slashdot article, "Tips for setting up a Consulting Business that Consults new Consultants", to be posted so that I can learn the best way to get my business up and running so I can help you. Wish me luck!

    :)

    --
    "Your superior intellect is no match for our puny weapons!"
  2. Interesting... by cyborg_monkey · · Score: 0, Funny

    I'm fairly young, in my 20's, but have a good track record, and strong oral... skills

    Well, that qualifies you to work here at Slashdot.