iCounsel.org Network - How it Works

"Keeping it Simple"

Introduction

At its root, iCounsel.org is simply a network of people helping other people. How (and why) it works can be learned by reading the sections of this page. However, it's only when you become a member yourself that you will be able to truly appreciate the simplicity of the network structure.

First Principles

To begin to understand the function of iCounsel.org, it is helpful to understand it's foundation. And that, too, is a simple matter. iCounsel.org is founded on the following principles:

I. Information is Not Insight - While there's no doubt that the Internet carries vast amounts of information, it is becoming increasingly clear that there are limits to the value of this information. More to the point, there are times when information just isn't enough, when the guiding hand of experience is required to convert static data into dynamic, interactive, personalized help. These are the situations where real people are needed, people who can offer insight, understanding and/or practical hands-on assistance.

II. Time Is Money - Sources as varied as the Bible ("the workman is worth his wage") and Ayn Rand ("value for value") agree that a person's time and experience are worth something. It is equally clear that when a person chooses to take on the role of a counselor, he deserves some form of compensation for the assistance he provides. At iCounsel.org, we encourage specialists to charge for their services.

specialist counseling

Shortcuts on this page

Introduction
First Principles
The Network Mechanism
Who Are The Specialists?
Getting Started

Important Note!
If your situation requires a telephone consultation, you are responsible for the cost of the call itself unless the specialist has indicated otherwise. This can either be through a collect call from the specialist, or the specialist may provide a number for you to call at a specified time. In either event, it's a good idea to have a scheduled "call time" prior placing your order.

The Network Mechanism

As a member of iCounsel.org, you have unlimited access to the network of specialists. When you submit an inquiry, our system routes your question (or concern, or problem) to appropriate specialists, based on the category you choose in the submission process. From that point, it's between you and the specialists. Those who feel they can help will contact you by email, typically providing some background information about themselves and usually making a specific offer. The help itself can be in the form of a phone consultation, email correspondence, a report, a product, a service or some other form of assistance. It will be up to each individaul specialist to convince you that he or she is the right person for the job, and it will be your sole decision as to whether or not you accept the offer.

Who Are The Specialists?

At iCounsel.org, we believe that everyone has something to bring to the table, that in fact most people have some kind of special knoweldge or experience that would be helpful to others. In short, that real people can offer real help, whether it be in the area of home improvements, education, personal counseling, technical counseling, automotive repair or even baking cookies. In connection, specialists with iCounsel.org are simply other members of the network, men and women who have indicated special knowledge or experience in one or more general subject areas. Sometimes these are professionals within the specific industry. But not always. Any member can become a specialist and use that role to generate a second income. In fact, this is the main reason some people join. While some members sign up to get help, others join to give it. But no member is tied to one motive or the other. Any member can sign up to become a specialist and still have full access to submit his or her own questions.

Getting Started

Joining iCounsel.org is easy. Just click here to get started. Once you've completed the simple sign up process, you'll be able to enter the Members-Only section and submit inquiries immediately.

Join the Network of Specialists