If you have recently been laid off or downsized and you have an IT background, this might be the perfect opportunity to get into consulting. Some studies indicate that more people have been let go from work than business can manage without.
This means that companies are going to have to start calling in consultants.
When you have worked all your life, starting out on your own can feel intimidating. But you don't have to work by yourself if this is how you feel. There are many people in your position so start doing some networking and find one or two other IT specialists to work with.
Check out the local IT newsletter in your region and see if there are any groups. If so, join in, attend meetings, and get to know people. When finding work is more about whom you know than what you know, networking is crucial.
Develop a portfolio and have some professional business cards made. Make sure you have them with you at all times because you never know when you will meet a potential client.