tedster - 9:55 pm on Sep 14, 2000 (gmt 0)

>>You also need a broad skill base...<<

That may be the key -- make a list of key skills and it's easier to find numbers for the individual areas. The list would support an argument for a requested salary.

Like ritualcoffee, I'm just outside Boston. All computer based skills are in demand here. But the pay swing can be huge, especially for an independent contractor like me.

Aside:
Recent demanding phone call: "Ted,we dropped to the second page on AOL. Get them to put us back!"