Brokers can help new indies find work, especially ones who have few contacts in the IT field, Scott says, but some brokers pay the contractors in their stables less than a third of what they're billing the client. Build a financial reserve. Scott recommends a money reserve of at least six months, especially when an independent contractor is just starting out. The worst thing you can do is negotiate a contract when you're desperate. Borona recommends independent contractors have in-house experience first.
Certifications also look good on a resume.
Plan training for yourself. If you don't keep up, in a couple of years you aren't going to be marketable. Build a network of contacts. Indies do this in many ways. Professional contacts from past jobs and certification classes are important.