Here's how you can navigate freelancing or consulting in IT services after a layoff.

After a layoff, navigate freelancing or consulting in IT services by leveraging your skills and experience. Assess your expertise, update your resume and LinkedIn profile, and create a portfolio showcasing your work. Use platforms like Upwork and LinkedIn to find opportunities and network. Build a strong personal brand with a professional website, content marketing, and active social media presence to establish authority and attract clients. Attend industry events and join associations for networking. Set up a structured business approach with clear rates, defined services, project management tools, and a balanced routine to manage your workload and stay updated with industry trends.

Before jumping into freelancing, figure out what you're really good at in IT. Are you a software whiz, a security expert, or a data guru? See what people need help with, and think about how your skills can help them. This is also a good time to learn new things to make yourself stand out.

Building your brand is like creating your own shop window – make it look good and show off your best work. Get a website, use social media to share what you know, and make sure it all shows who you are as an IT expert. Remember, people want to work with someone they trust and believe in.

Don't be shy about asking for help! Reach out to your network – old coworkers, people you know in the industry, even friends. Go to IT events to meet new people, and check out online groups where you can find leads and team up with others.

One thing that I found critical to starting a freelancing career was to be both better and more affordable than my competitors- at least initially. Trading a bit on price versus more established competitors can be an inducement for new clients to give you a try. Once trust is established by “under promising and over delivering” rate growth and work volume will follow.

Setting the right price is tricky, but it's essential to get it right. Check what others are charging, think about your experience, how hard the work is, and what you offer that's special. Be upfront with clients about how you charge, whether it's by the hour or by the project. Find a price that's fair to you and your clients.

In my years as an IT manager, I've seen firsthand how effective project management can make or break a freelance career. It's more than just using tools; it's about setting clear expectations upfront, regular communication, and being adaptable to changes. Personally, I've found that involving clients in the planning process fosters a sense of ownership and collaboration. Regular progress updates and check-ins also ensure that everyone stays on the same page. Remember, successful project management isn't just about delivering on time and budget; it's about building trust and long-term relationships with clients.