WORKSHIFTER - Dispatches from the New Executive Frontier

I'm beginning to hear some real optimism in the market in the last few weeks.  It seems that businesses are beginning to recognize that despite the economy, it is time to get back to business.  And, the organizations I'm speaking to realize that they can't do it the way they used to....they just can't add back all that fixed cost. They need to find new and creative ways to deploy talent to drive business results AND reduce fixed costs.  Engaging independent professionals on a project basis to solve problems is a compelling value proposition in what will be The New Economy. 

We at EPOCH are out there advocating for all of you and encouraging companies to engage professionals and executives on site to help accelerate the completion of critical business initiatives.

In July, we will also be launching an "on-line" version, where small and mid size businesses can access our portfolio of professionals on an hourly basis.  When that is complete, we will have a service delivery model that supports small, mid-size and large companies.

So, hang in there.....I think there will be lots of work for lots of you over the next few months.  Keep working your networks and keep evangelizing the model.  As I've said in the past....engaging talent in this new way gives companies:

• Access to deep knowledge and expertise (with "done it before" resources)
• On a variable cost basis (no recruiting, benefits or severance costs)
• With goal oriented people who have no political agenda (giving business leaders the objective feedback they need to make great decisions)

Last but not least, if any of you ever get an assignment with a multinational organization, I learned of a terrific company this week called Globally Hip (www.globallyhip.com) that focuses on cultural awareness.  They offer one on one training for individuals in addition to speaking, education and broad based training for corporations.  I met the owner and I think they have a terrific model.  If you happen to be fortunate enough to work with people around the globe, having this kind of training and support will give you a tremendous advantage...check them out!