Career question for all the contractors

[Mike C.]

Hey guys, I wanted to know how hard/difficult it is to break into the contracting business. I have no construction  or real estate  experience(i work in corporate setting 9-5 office job). But my father owns a small trade contracting company. If I were to join and try to build up the business and get into home building possibly how difficult is this to do? Is it about who you know and connections or can I work hard and build this small business to a big company?  What educational books are recommended regarding how to bid on jobs etc. My dream has been to own a business and break into real estate also...and I am getting tired of the corporate rat race. Thanks for any advice !