Archive for February, 2009
Dismal job market offers opportunities for independent consulting
Posted by: | CommentsConsidering the number of talented people entering the unemployment pool each month, I believe there are huge opportunities for a rise in independent consultants this coming year. In the last few months, the pace of layoffs has grown to nearly a half a million per month with no end in sight. While a stimulus package may eventually pass, it may be more than a year before the economy actually begins to grown again. For those looking for a job or looking for a better job, that’s a long time to be out of work.
The ability to successfully market yourself as a consultant while looking for a full time position could be your best chance of staying fresh, earning income, and improving your chances of rehire.
So, how do you go about offering your services?
Examine your experiences and expertise. Summarize your skills and know what services you will offer and the scope of each service. Be able to describe the deliverables; a comprehensive report summarizing your research and offering suggestions, a ready-to-mail tax return, up-to-the-minute financial reports, etc. Whatever your skills are, your goal is to turn them into a deliverable that you can offer for a fee. Have a portfolio of examples ready to show potential clients, if possible.
Network. Let everyone you know you’re looking for work and what you’re offering. Connections are important in times like these. Most people who still have jobs these days feel blessed and are willing to help if they can. They understand they could easily be next. Let people know how they can help you. Often an opportunity will arise only because someone thought to put two people together. It pays to stay connected.
Once you’re bringing in income and keeping busy, you will need to establish yourself in business legally. Check with your local government to see what licenses are required. And if you find yourself in a position to help another person out of work, don’t pass on the opportunity. Pulling each other up is what it’s going to take to get out of this downturn as quickly as possible.
Microsoft BizSpark™ Helps Software Developers Launch their Startups
Posted by: | CommentsIn today’s economy, it can be harder than ever to get a startup off the ground. Microsoft wants to help. Realizing its own success is tied to new technologies, the Redmond software giant offers a program called BizSpark™ that helps developers create their technologies with a three-fold approach:
· Software: BizSpark™members may download full professional versions of many of Microsoft’s software development tools, such as Microsoft Visual Studio®, and several platform products, such as Microsoft Windows Server®.
· Support: BizSpark™members are provided a subscription in the Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN), which offers access to a broad range of Microsoft tools and technologies used to design, develop, and test software. Members also receive technical support from Microsoft.
· Visibility: BizSpark™members are profiled in an online directory to potential investors, partners, and customers.
To join BizSpark™, a startup must be:
· Developing a software product or service that is or will be a key part of its business (exceptions apply, such as hosting),
· In business for less than 3 years, and
· Generating less that USD $1 million in annual revenues (exceptions apply in certain countries).
· Sponsored by a Network Partner or BizSpark Champ. Resources are available to help find sponsorship.
There is no cost until you exit the program and then the cost is only USD $100.
If your startup doesn’t meet the above requirement, Microsoft has other programs that may benefit you. For more information, visit:
Why hire a female P.I?
Posted by: | CommentsFemale sleuths are on the rise. Just as investigation techniques have changed dramatically over the years, so have private investigators. Once the world of retired policemen, private investigation has evolved along with the technology that drives it. Many tech-savvy women are entering this growing field.
While human surveillance is certainly still part of the job, much investigative work is done with technology. With the rise of the Internet, there are plenty of methods for information gathering. For instance, anyone can open an account on a social network and learn more about a target. Those with a private investigation license can access public databases such as the department of vehicle licensing. Much more research can be accomplished at a desk than in times past.
When female investigators do need to find evidence in the field, a high-powered camera can help them gather the information they need while remaining a safe distance from the target. Female investigators may even have an advantage in one area: many people tend to be more forthcoming in talking with a woman. Hi tech tools are leveling the playing field, revealing that women who are good with research and technology can be successful private investigators.
For more information on this topic, see http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2008694399_femalesleuths01.html
Rules for Private Investigators Becoming More Stringent in Washington State
Posted by: | CommentsFor private investigators in the state of Washington, staying under cover is about to become more difficult. In a recent session, state legislators passed RCW 46.12.380(4), which requires the Department of Licensing (DOL) to notify the registered owner of a vehicle if an attorney or private investigator request the owner’s motor vehicle record under public disclosure.
The DOL is in the process of revising WAC 308-10 by adding sections 80-100. The proposed section 100 (13) restates the legislation above as a rule. This rule states that the DOL will notify a vehicle’s registered owner with the name, address and phone number of an attorney or private investigator requesting the information. This contact information must be made available to the vehicle’s registered owner in case they have questions.
Several private investigators have voiced concerns over these rules. These concerns include safety issues and the ability to do their job unimpeded. For investigators who do high volumes of DOL lookups, simply responding to inquiries from the vehicle owners will be costly considering the time involved. The rule has not yet been adopted, but likely will be as the legislature requires these actions.
