I attend a number of networking events each month to build relationships with other professionals and entrepreneurs. I NEVER have a hard time explaining why I am good at what I do. It's simple. No one in the room will meet someone as dedicated as I am to learning everything I can about software development and small business. I have an addiction and it's hard to compete with someone with such focus.
If you are considering going out on your own, because of a recent layoff or an impending one, you should know exactly why you are doing it. You should be doing it because you are the best at what you do. You'll offer dedication, knowledge and service that clients cannot imagine today. It takes that to win new clients. It's not luck, it's dogged persistence and demonstrable proof that you are better at what you do than most. This point is well illustrated by this article, ala
... there is always room at the top applies everywhere. If you are good at what you do (meaning if you are in the top 10% - 15%) there will always be a place for you and you will always do well. It doesn’t matter what field you’re in or what your place is in that field. There is always room for someone who’s great at what they do ...
You've probably heard the adage "love what you do and success will come", but I would add that you better be great at it too.