This is very helpful, thank you for taking the time to write a detailed answer.
If I was starting out today knowing what I know I would approach design/marketing agencies
This sounds very logical. I was thinking about this, but for data analysis work. I used to work for a healthcare software firm and I know there is a lot of data analysis work in healthcare - this is probably true in other industries too.
I am not sure I want to get into wordpress/drupal etc, unless I am left no other choice. I am looking into doing data analysis type of work, as I am better at it than fighting with CSS :)
Have you considered getting into the product side?
Yes, this is one thing I can confidently say I am good at. My own product manager asks me for advice all the time. I am just not sure how to transition
Any advice on how to break into contracting? I'll start a blog (I enjoy writing, so blogging should be fun) and create a LinkedIn account - any other steps?
often the solution will be a mix of better software and review of the processes
This I think I can do well. Is this your business? Do you offer advice/solutions to small businesses? If possible, can you give me an example of a typical project that you do?
If I was starting out today knowing what I know I would approach design/marketing agencies
This sounds very logical. I was thinking about this, but for data analysis work. I used to work for a healthcare software firm and I know there is a lot of data analysis work in healthcare - this is probably true in other industries too.
I just need to find the right approach.