I blogged the other day about having a customer ask me to design his business site.
It started out “I need this urgently”.
So I got right on it.
Now I’m ready for more data from the business owner, but, as you may have guessed, small business owners are frequently detained by “new” urgencies!
I’m sure he’ll have the data I need – you guessed it – when I’m covered up with another urgent matter.
One thing to remember as you’re transitioning out of the cubicle. Have plenty of work booked ahead. Our tendency is to “bet everything” on one good customer and the promise of one really good job.
Here’s my advice…
1. Start on the side.
2. Earn money on the side.
3. Get all that time booked up.
4. Work that business and see if more business books up.
5. See how much is repeat and referral business so you don’t have to market if at all possible.
6. Use the extra money to pay down debt and build a cash reserve.
7. When you’re booked about a year in advance (but if you could work full time you’ll guarantee yourself at least 6 months work), then that’s a good time to go “full time”.
#7 is highly debatable of course and a complete speculation on my part.
I’m just trying to stretch your time horizon beyond “I hate this cubicle… I need to leave now… I’ve got one customer and a $500 job… I’m gonna bolt!”
That often ends in disaster.
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