I don't have the guts to leave

jactuary,

First and foremost, I know hundreds of professionals who had that same level of concern about making the jump. It's pretty normal.

In fact, I was one of them. After 25 years in corporate America, I started my private practice career consulting company. It was a great move. Scary at times, but a great move. Here it is 11 years later and I have never looked back. I make as much if not more money, work fewer hours, and love what I do.

Here are a few random thoughts to consider:

* Planning--you may want to plan your move 12-18 months in advance. It will give you time to come to terms with the fact you may make less money for awhile, and plan accordingly.

* Marketing--it's the toughest part of starting your own consulting firm. One idea is to develop a strategic marketing partnership with another tech consulting firm that already has a pipeline of business. This concept works very well if you can offer their clients a service they are currently not providing. You can then work out a revenue split that works for you.

* Moonlighting--there is a good chance that your employer would not approve of you trying to start your own company on the side, especially if it's somewhat competitive to them.

* Shadowing--try to find someone in your industry and city who has made a similar move. Ask them if they would be your mentor on making the leap.

* Bridge Job--if you decide to make the plunge, you may want to land a interim position doing something else, to keep a little money coming in. You can look for those positions off-hours. For example, you might consider taking interim assignments for one of the staffing companies in your field.

*Flex-Time Work--is it a possibility that your employer would consider a proposal from you to cut back your hours some? That would give you some time to do some of this work.

Making this move is a big leap. It requires time, money, and a huge commitment. But it can be so worth it.

Go confidently in the direction of your dream,

Gordon

Gordan,

Thanks for your very thoughtful response.

All of your suggestions were helpful, although two really spoke to me. I never considered the strategic marketing concept, but after some reflection, I might be able to find a way that it could work.

Also, the flex-time work idea is a real possibility. That would solve a lot of problems. I could begin my new practice, with a bit of a safety net. If the concept doesn't work, I'll be able to go back full time.

Gordon, thanks again.

Jeff

Just do it!

I like Domenicoluigi's reply along with the great suggestions from Gordon. I'd add that if you're not directly competing, it's like you said, "..my spare time". Just be diligent about documenting your moonlighting to not mix with the day-job (don't use your employer's computers, internet connection, phones, etc...).

Get your contingencies in-place, and take the leap.

You're in misery. Bloom where you're planted or uproot... that clock is ticking.

I made the leap about 13 years ago and boot strapped it with a desktop computer and a cardtable. Found local networking groups, and worked them hard. Be fearful of any introverted tendencies and push yourself out there. Follow-up and just be "genuine". Be ethical and treat your clients with the Golden Rule and your good works will get you more business.

You'll reflect back on your hesitancies someday and smile about how minor those concerns actually wound up being.

Have a great jump, it's exhilarating!

Dave and Gordon and Domenicoluigi,

Thanks for your nice note. I sorry I couldn't get back to you sooner. Can you each tell me what you like best and what you like least about being on your own and, with hindsight, what would you have done differently?

Thanks

Jeff