Thanks for the response, very helpful!

I've done my best to build relationships over my 8 years in the software development industry, but I don't have much work to show for it after querying my network. All of my work to date has been from external sources.

I also make a point to over-deliver, both in availability and deliverables, and to ask for referrals.

I wonder if the types of interpersonal connections in tech sales are more valuable for finding work than those in software development - I'm certain I could tap my network for a job offer easily, but contract work has been a tougher sell.

It's still early days though, we'll see how things look 6 months down the line after I have a couple more contracts under my belt.