Starting my IT Consulting Business

Hello all I believe I'm finally ready to put my plans into motion and get my consulting business off the ground. MY IT services will focus on providing IP networking solutions for small/medium business owners. Basically setting up routers, switches, firewalls, and VoIP for customers along with providing support for these services. I'm currently working as an network analyst and I'm still moving up the networking telecommunication ladder but but I only work 15 days a month which gives me more time than what I know what to do with.

I'm going to focus on partnering with other IT businesses that are unable to provide sufficent network support for businesses. The market research I did so far shows that many IT support companies a lot of times aren't able to provide a lot of networking support due to the steep learning curve when it comes to network engineering compared to say PC support. I registered my ficticus name with my state a few months back but I haven't accomplished much else besides a small business plan and my own market research. I want to get the LLC and all the legal things taken care of next to protect my self. Who should I talk to about this, should I find a business attorny, account, or both? Also while I'm going to market my services as much as possible are there companies out there that provides marketing and even sale services? I want to delegate as much as possible so I can focus on building the business it self, I know I'll have to wear multiple hats for while though until then though. I appreciate any advice in advance!

Hey there and congrats on the pending consulting business. I'm in the process of getting mine setup as well (mine will be in social media).

In regards to setting up a LLC, I've been told it's better to go with a lawyer who specializes or works with small businesses. But you can also do it online as well. I would do a lot of research into it before making a decision though.

One book I have found to be a great resource in setting up my consulting business is Getting Started In Consulting by Alan Weiss. Great book full of information and resources which will answer just about any question you may have regarding getting started in consulting. I got mine off of Amazon for around $13, I think.

Good luck with everything!

Wesley Craig Green

You shouldn't need a lawyer to create an LLC, assuming you are in the states. Contact your state and find out the process which should be as simple as a name search, a form, a designation of statutory agent, and publication in the newspaper. Do a Google search for "Registering an LLC in [Your State/Province]"