In the Tips For Independent Computer Consultants I will share with you what I have learned in over 10 years while I was doing consulting work for Fortune 500 companies and major Wall Street firms. -How to write 'consultant' resume -How to avoid mistakes made by new consultants -How to make thousands of dollars more by deciding whether it is best to be a W2, 1099 or C2C consultant

If you are in information technology and you have the ambition and inborn drive to be among the very best--or if you need to engage an IT consultant and want to know how to recognize the best--this book is for you. In most fields, a consultant is an expert who provides advice and guidance. Implementing the advice is up to the client. In information technology, the term "computer consultant" covers a wider range. Business expertise is frequently an even more critical element of the delivery than technical expertise. Because implementation of the consultant's advice may require highly specialized skills, the consultant may offer to manage a team to perform some or all of the IT work that needs to be done, or may even offer supplemental staff for a client. But at the other end of the spectrum, some people call themselves computer consultants when their work is exclusively technical, such as programming or network design. Exactly what is a consultant in the field of information technology? What's the different between an ordinary computer consultant and one who stands out above the crowd? If you want to be an exemplary, top of the line consultant in the IT field, what do you need to do? This book addresses these questions. Contributors include Jerry Weinberg, who is practically legendary for his keen insight, and Steve Epner, founder of the Independent Computer Consultants Association. Each chapter explores a different aspect of what it takes to be a truly excellent computer consultant and provide the highest levels of value and service for clients.

If you're serious about striking out on your own as a computer consultant, you don't need a pep talk. You need reliable, authoritative information that will prepare you for the realities of independent consulting.

READ THIS BOOKTO DISCOVER:* The 5 types of technical support available and the pros and cons of each* How to avoid getting ripped off, disappointed or paying for sub-standard work* 12 warning signs that you hired the wrong computer consultant* Viruses, worms, spyware and hackers: what you need to know to protect your company frominvasion* Insider secrets to contracts, payment schedules and rate negotiations* 10 critical characteristics to look for in a competent computer consultant* Why you need to avoid "cheap" or "bargain" computer repair shops* How to turn technology into a competitive advantage instead of a drain on your time, money and resources* What "managed services" means and why thousands of business owners are now demanding this type of support from their computer consultants

Written by an expert who has helped thousands of people nationwide find success as computer consultants, this is your complete guide to starting and managing a thriving computer and network consulting practice. From start-up costs to contract negotiation, from taxes to pricing and marketing, you get concise, straightforward advice and guidance on all the critical issues involved. And throughout the text you'll find candid accounts from seasoned computer consultants who share invaluable insights into all aspects of the business. You'll learn how to: * Assess your strengths and zero in on your market niche * Use proven, affordable marketing and sales techniques * Decide when you need a broker and find one you can work with * Set fees and negotiate contracts to your best advantage * Bid on government contracts--and win * Manage your time and workload for optimum satisfaction * Choose and win the clients you want to work with * Use the Internet to build your success

Leaving the corporate world to become an independent consultant is exciting but also a bit scary. There's a lot to know about setting up the company, finding and working with clients, establishing business policies, and establishing yourself as a respected professional in your field.When Karl Wiegers became an independent consultant over twenty years ago, he didn't know much about all that. Now he does. Karl wrote "Going It Alone: Essential Tips for the Independent Consultant" to share what he--and others--have learned. With countless tips for making your consulting more effective and your business more lucrative, it's the book he wanted to have when he was hanging out his own shingle."Going It Alone" contains 33 chapters in six parts: Setting Up Shop, On the Job, Practicalities, Building the Business, Media Matters, and Writing Your Way to Success. Written in a conversational and entertaining style, it covers the gamut of practical issues for both new and seasoned independent consultants. Karl draws from his extensive experience as a successful consultant, speaker, trainer, and author. Guest chapters from other consultants bring additional perspectives. Dozens of anecdotes that describe actual experiences make it all real and relatable.Beyond helping with the basics of the business, chapters address how to manage your intellectual property and leverage it in a multitude of ways for profit. Two chapters offer many tips for giving effective presentations with confidence. Others provide a wealth of guidance on writing articles and publishing books. If you have questions about setting prices, negotiating agreements, dealing with difficult clients, or generating revenue while you sleep, "Going It Alone" has answers.Whether you're thinking about taking the leap, just getting started, or hoping to grow your business, "Going It Alone" offers an abundance of pragmatic pointers for the independent consultant in any field. Even if you're not an independent consultant, you're sure to find much useful information here.