Mike A Johnson - Consultant and Author

Starting Up on Your Own

How to work for yourself and make it work - first time and all the time.

Are you thinking of working for yourself as an independent consultant? Have you already made the leap and want to get more work, new clients, higher fees? This book pulls no punches, it tells it like it is, giving you all the guidence you need to set yourself up and get work in the first place, plus all the know-how you need to survive, prosper and expand.

Praise for 'Starting Up on Your Own'

“This book is a must read, for anyone thinking about life outside the organisation - it helps make the transition smooth and seamless.” 

Goran Hultin, former Deputy Director General at the International Labour Office - now successful independent consultant.

“This is a practical and essential guide for anyone contemplating establishing their own business. Johnson captures all the key elements which allow a successful transition and is very clear about what can send you off track. Grounded in common-sense and humour.” 

Norman Walker, former global head of human resources for Novartis.

“I wish this book had been available when I began my independent career. There’s only one word  for it – PRICELESS!!!”

Shay McConnon, psychologist, trainer, coach, mentor and magician.

Amazon Reviews

“I can think of two friends who would either still be in business today - or would have avoided a lot of stress and heartache from the start - if they'd read this book. If you are even thinking about starting up as an independent - of if you are deciding whether to keep persevering with it once the initial few contracts dry up this book is brilliant.” 

Stephen Masson

“I can't recommend it enough... ... packed full of useful tips and hard advice... ...One of the hardest bits for anyone who has never been in a sales role before is learning how to sell yourself and set your fees - this book is worth the price for these sections alone.” 

Pardo

“The book is both practical and entertaining. I have been an independent consultant for many years, but I discovered some useful tips that I can use. And the book is fun to read - lots of amusing anecdotes that make Smarter Consulting an interesting read.” 

C. S. Huskinsson

“Mike Johnson's Smarter Consulting guide tells it like it is. Very good advice on both the practical and the emotional journey to professional independence. The author speaks from experience - both his own and those of his many friends and professional colleagues - which makes this "manual" so credible and useful.” 

Hanneke

“...This is an excellent guide to the pitfalls to avoid and how to avoid them. Anecdotes from the author's experience, both positive and negative, enliven the discussion. I found myself constantly jotting down ideas and points to follow-up. This is the guide to read before you commit yourself and while you still have a job. Not afterwards when it will be too late.” 

K. Steventon

“...I found the book not only insightful but very practical and it dealt with many issues that I felt (before reading the book) were not major. It made me really think about my reasons for going it alone and question was this a good option for me, it does not sugar coat the reality's of self employment which is one of the key strengths of the book.” 

Michael Douglas