How do I start a consulting business with very little start-up capital?

How do I move from consulting to a startup ?

• Hi all, I currently work for a strategy consulting firm, 2 years out of undergrad, but know I want to start my own business (currently running 2 very small ones on the side).  I'd like to go work for a startup, as I understand some funded startups have openings for product managers that come from consulting.  Short of quitting, moving to SF, dressing in a suit, camping outside of BizTechDay and asking "Spare any business cards sir?" of every passerby with a forlorn look on my face, how can I find these types of companies?  I looked on Startuply and few others, but most of the posts are for people with 5+ years of experience in their respective fields, which is not too surprising so they can lower their hiring risk, but not helpful when looking for companies that hire ex-consultants.  I can analyze markets, competitors, customers, etc to help support strategic decision making, and learn very quick, but just don't have the years of hands-on experience with product management. Any suggestions on the types of companies that may be more likely to hire someone with my background, and how to find these companies, are very much appreciated, thank you.

• Answer:

  I specialize in placing candidates in startups and fill all kinds of jobs including project manager positions. Lots of people from different backgrounds are attracted to the project manager role, but there are also a lot experienced PM's out there looking for the same jobs. Realistically with no PM experience the job you could most likely land at a startup is probably an entry level position something like an admin, executive assistant or office manager. The reason for this is that most small funded startups these days don't have money to throw around offering salaries to less experienced unproven candidates,  however they'd be crazy not to  want smart, eager, driven people in their company somewhere.  Entry level positions like admins and office manager jobs are a great place to start. The old cliche is right...Just get your foot in the door. And yes, move to a place where these startups are. Face to face with good recommendations to back up what you say is the way to get a job like this. At a growing company you can work hard and make yourself indispensable. The founders will quickly recongize your aptitude and you'll be able to move into other positions that you're more interested in.