Starting a business (not detailing)

[jswift2000]

I`ve always wanted to work for myself and the desire is stronger than ever. I`m an IT professional and I enjoy what I do but I work too hard for someone else. Since my employer is the sole source of income rght now, I need to start off by doing jobs on the side and nights.



How does one go about starting out on their own? I tried hanging flyers at my local YMCA but it didnt turn out too well and my wife as passed out my name to a pretty large network of friends which has also resulted in a undesired result.



Any advice is welcome and appreciated. Thank you in advance.



Jeff

[dublifecrisis]

well, your description kinda makes it tough for someone to offer much advise. I too am an IT professional. I enjoy what I do, but of course have the urge to "be my own boss". You mentoned working at nights or on the side. That`s one way to at least get some clientele and some sort of reputation. Word of mouth is free advertisement. What is that you want to do?

[imported_truzoom]

So you want to work as a independent IT professional?



What areas do you have a specialty in? I think independent consulting would be a good route for you.

[jswift2000]

Thanks guys. I`m a windows engineer/architect/whatever the fancy word of the day is and I now see where I was a little vague in my original post.



I guess I would be looking for setting up systems, management, etc for small businesses in my area and work with people on their home computers - upgrading, spyware cleaning, backup strategy, etc.



Thanks for replys. I`m going to expand my word of mouth network and see if that helps.



Thanks again.



Jeff