The only fly in the ointment is that many corporations include some version of a non-assignment clause which basically says you
yourself are expected and required to perform the tasks for which you have been hired if you are an employee. Any use, on your part, of outside parties in the performance of your duties requires advance approval from your employer.
Makes perfect sense. Especially in this era of rampant corporate espionage and patent/IP litigation. Today, it's more important than ever to know exactly
who is working for you.
------------
The story reminds me of a joke:
Three small building contractors died and arrived before the Pearly Gates having been approved to enter Paradise. At the Pearly Gates sat Saint Peter who was the official greeter for Heaven. When Peter discovered the men were all contractors he was delighted because he had recently been assigned the task of arranging for the refurbishment of the Pearly Gates which were looking a little bit the worse for wear.
Pulling the first contractor aside Peter said: I'm thinking of getting these gates redone. Any idea what that might cost?
The contractor looked at the gates very carefully, took a few measurements and made some sketches; and after about 20 minutes of silent thought said: "I figure this job would run about $900.
Peter asked how he had come up with that number and the man said: "I figure $300 for labor, $300 for materials, and a profit margin of $300."
Peter then thanked the man and passed him through the gates onto his eternal reward.
Peter next called the second contractor aside and asked the same question. The second man went through much the same motions as the first before pronouncing the price would be $1000.
When asked how he had arrived at the number the man said: "Well, I figure $400 for the labor, $300 for materials, and a profit margin of $300."
When Peter had mentioned he received a previous quote of only $300 for the labor, the contractor explained that while it would be possible to hire cheaper workers, he preferred to work with more experienced builders and not have them rush the work. "They get a higher hourly rate and take a little longer," he said. "But that way the job gets done right the first time. And any work you contract for with me is fully guaranteed by me personally. I run a quality shop."
Peter then thanked the man and passed him through the gates.
When the third contractor stepped forward the man simply said "$2900" before Peter could even open his mouth.
Peter said, "I beg your pardon?"
The third contractor gave him a knowing smile and said: "Y'know...For the
gates? I overheard you taking to those other two guys about a 'refurb' on your main entrance."
Peter was dumbfounded. "But how can you give me a quote so quickly? And for so much more? You didn't even take any measurements or notes."
The contractor smiled broadly and winked. "Come on Pete!
Work with me on this one. A grand for you....a grand for me...then we take $900 and hire the cheap guy!"
Recent Posts
-Renegade (January 19, 2013, 05:10 AM)
in my corner of the universe.
- in NYC's music scene. 
And I don't. 
