Developers: Start a consulting company?

Explore the tech consulting industry in this detailed discussion. Learn about the benefits and challenges of transitioning from a traditional developer role to consulting, understanding market dynamics during a recession, and the importance of building a strong network. Practical advice on business aspects such as finance and HR, setting rates, and identifying potential hiring managers.
Table of Contents:
00:35 - Why a recession is a good time to start
02:21 - A lot of things to learn
03:17 - The first task
03:53 - Leverage your network
04:31 - The long term goal
05:20 - What makes your company unique?
06:56 - Quick tips
07:31 - Setting rates
08:25 - More quick tips

[@user-qm5eg3fg8c]

I never knew Louis CK has a software development podcast, totally cool!

[@mohamedabdul633]

Thank you for your video, could you please make video about how to even start a consulting company?

[@iolss]

Nice topic, thank you for your insights, I have my own company but today I'm an independent contractor working for a single client, I guess my challenge is how I can get more clients but at the same time continue with a business mentality instead of just being an "overemployed" thing, so it is always good to see experienced developers ideas on this subject, I don't see too much of this on TH-cam.

[@steve-adams]

Becoming over employed is a nightmare. If you have a hard time saying no, it can be hard to avoid happening. In fact I'd say that every consultant needs to learn to tactfully say no very early on. No is an important word that's both powerful and dangerous. The tact is essential, but without it, the over employment scenario is inevitable and burnout is next. That's a great way to ruin a consulting gig.

[@ChangeNode]

Totally. The goal is to shift from one person shop to trying to get to, say, five people billing. That may mean targeting 20-30 hours/billable instead of 40+ so you have time for biz dev. At a minimum try to do at least 2-3 lunches/coffees with managers a week.