I quite like software as a job but I think I'm going to end up working for myself, one way or another. I can work on a team but I prefer working alone; I also like having control over the direction of a project and being able to iterate as fast as I need to. This has led me to software consulting/contracting or just creating a "software studio." I'd love if someone who has done something similar to share their thoughts on this. Thanks!
Ask HN: What's the best way to become an independent software developer?
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Re: Ask HN: What's the best way to become an independent software developer?
#2> This has led me to software consulting/contracting
For better understanding your context, have you started being a consultant/contractor already?
Re: Ask HN: What's the best way to become an independent software developer?
#3Right on, am sort of in a similar boat. Have been software contracting for a few years but it's still not truly "independent" dev work.
Probably the best way is to just do more independent software development. Personally think dog-fooding business tools are good to work on - solving your own problems.
One tough part about working independently is not being exposed to others' ideas. Keeping up on industry trends and continuing to learn via whatever means may also be relevant.
Re: Ask HN: What's the best way to become an independent software developer?
#4How long have you been doing "software as a job"?
Re: Ask HN: What's the best way to become an independent software developer?
#5build something and launch it. charge money for it. publish about it. repeat.
check out @indiehackers and @levelsio, and the book "start small stay small" by rob walling
Re: Ask HN: What's the best way to become an independent software developer?
#6I have had similar thoughts lately, I currently work in govt in a job that isvery secure but isn't everything it could be. The thing that puts me off it is the unknowns around generative AI over the next few years - the cost of creating software is plummeting and the barriers to entry are dropping, language translation tools are going to enable a lot of high quality international developers (read: India) to better compete for remote work. Of course the flip side is a big increase in demand when there are lower costs, maybe it's the best time to do it.
Re: Ask HN: What's the best way to become an independent software developer?
#7If you need to get paid you aren’t “working for yourself” or controlling the project. Whomever pays for your work decides most of the parameters. That’s called freelancing or consulting.
You don’t “become” a freelancer or independent developer. That’s not an identity. You find customers who will pay you to deliver solutions to business problems. If you have a good reputation and track record and relationships with your customers they may trust you to make decisions about the project direction, tools and languages, schedule, etc.
Building a freelance practice takes considerable time and effort. I have some articles about that based on my experience (over 15 years freelancing) on my site typicalprogrammer.com.
Re: Ask HN: What's the best way to become an independent software developer?
#8keeping your work pipe full take quite a bit of time. alot of jobs dont pan out, and when you think you've got steady work, it can suddenly disappear. also be prepared to deal with clients who really dont understand what they need and are just desperately hoping for someone to make their problems go away, but without empowering them. if they had control of their development, they wouldn't be hiring contractor. you've gotta try to make it work as best you can. because if you can, people will remember, and thats gonna help keep your pipe full later on.
unless you have a very niche skill that they really wouldn't normally hire a full time for. thats really the best ticket here, because those people are alot more respectful of your time, pay better, and are very clear about what they from you.
dont even try to get work on those job boards. i dont have any good suggestions on where to start getting jobs if you dont already have a network.
if you can keep all that going, its entirely possible to work part time, make good money, and have great control over your schedule and life choices. if you cant, then coming out of contractor into salary can be harder than transitioning between salaried jobs.
Re: Ask HN: What's the best way to become an independent software developer?
#9build something and launch it. charge money for it. publish about it. repeat. check out @indiehackers and @levelsio, and the book "start small stay small" by rob walling
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Re: Ask HN: What's the best way to become an independent software developer?
#10I am in the same boat. I have 12+ years of experience. I tired to launch a startup and it failed miserably.
I am considering Amazon IQ. If you are into AWS and can get the professional level certificates, you can use Amazon IQ platform to freelance. I have used Amazon IQ to hire before and I had good results. Your really need multiple pro level certificates to compete though.
I have tried Upwork, but it's been a not so good experience. I have my work history on the platform, but it doesn't seem to matter. I've worked at some top tier companies (one of the trillion dollar market cap SF big tech companies). I think Upwork requires building a portfolio tailored to the type of projects you would like to work on.