So here in the times of economic mine fields, how are independent consultants maintaining their client lists.
I am Web Consultant for a small firm and have the responsibility of web sites, web servers, databases and marketing. Along with that, the owner wants me to drum up more business. What’s techie to do!!!!?????
Here are some things I try to keep in mind. Does SEO really need to be done for small sites? My answer is NO. Businesses are being told that SEO is the WAY to get you found on the net. I say nay nay said the bunny rabbit. Meta tags were designed for a reason. I use them. I have actually been told by newbies that that is the ONLY way to get your site listed on the search engines (using SEO techniques and software).
There have been many discussions on here about Vista or not to Vista (I have said it before, go LINUX!!!!). Nuff said. Though if I am pushed by a small business, I make sure new machines are using XP Pro and NOT VI$TA.
About the only systems, software and installation that HASN’T made me loose more hair is networking an office. Lay the line, snake it in the walls, connect to wall outlet, connect to router or switch, plug in power, connect to computer, turn on and (crossing fingers) drivers for the nic’s are installed and networking we will go.
So with outsourcing to India and other countries, I am finding that many companies (at least in the US) are spending oodles of extra cash FIXING mistakes. It has been said on here many times, Time Is Money, and the non-techies always assume if you tell the 6 months to make something, you can do it in 3. More money wasted because of rushed and shoddy work.
Well, what do you folks have to say on those comments. Lets get our IT worlds back into perspective (we techies getting non-techies to listen). Gone are the high priced salaries we obtained in the late 90’s and early in this millennium. Trying to stay competive with new technologies and just maintaining our jobs and getting new contracts preclude higher and higher salaries, or per hour rates. (Keep in mind that I am referencing $100.00+ an hour consultants not the $40.00 to $60.00 an hour ones).
