The Expert Edge

Services Sector Shows Steady Increases

It should come as no surprise to busy PATCA consultants that activity in the services sector has increased again in October. PATCA's member survey earlier in 2009 reported cautious optimism regarding future growth in consulting work, and economic indicators now show that growth has indeed occured.

According to JPMorgan's Global Services Business Activity Index, the upward trend continued in October, reaching a 22-month high. The report states that an increase in worldwide services activity has been noted for three successive months.

Additionally, growth of services activity in the US was very robust, reaching its highest point in two years and showing progress after the end of the recession in the third quarter. Countering the trend, there was a further reduction in employment during October, although the rate of job losses in the US is decreasing.

This phenomenon has been noted during previous economic cycles. As the economy starts to pick up speed, companies begin to hire contingent workers, like consultants. This is a great opportunity for PATCA members to reach out to new clients and to build stronger relationships with current customers.

Social Media Victories - Real Businesses, Real Campaigns, Real Results

PATCA's consultant seminar series features popular presenter Patrick Schwerdtfeger of Tactical Execution, who returns to share more of his most successful tips and techniques for profiting from the real-time social media conversation.

During this half-day session, Schwerdtfeger will analyze specific tactics used by actual companies in real life situations. He will deliver successful case studies where organizations have leveraged Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube to increase revenue and drive brand awareness.

The workshop is designed for consultants and small business owners who want to build their businesses using proven social media strategies. By the end of the session, participants will be well prepared to boost their internet marketing strategies with effective use of inexpensive social communication channels.

Date: November 14, 2009

Time: 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Place: Keypoint Credit Union, 2805 Bowers Ave., Santa Clara, CA 95051 (near Bowers & Central Expressway)

Get more information and register online.

Special PATCA Rate for ICCA Conference

The 32nd Annual ICCA National Conference will take place at the The Stanford Court, a Renaissance Hotel atop Nob Hill in San Francisco, California on the weekend of November 13 - 15, 2009.

PATCA members are being offered ICCA's special member rate for the November 13 conference and are offered group rates at the event hotel. 

See the Independent Computer Consultants Association (ICCA) 2009 Conference Brochure for more details: http://www.icca.org/images/2009Conf/ConferenceBrochure.pdf

ICCA online room reservations are $99/night, or call (800) 227-4736 or (415) 989-3500).