Over the next month or so I'll be launching a new type of professional networking web app. In addition to the traditional form of general networking, I will be building a peer to peer career community and marketplace where participants can provide each other advice, help, support (including emotional) and mentorship.
The kicker is we all help each other for free at first (cuz you should / it's the right thing to do) while we possibly build new professional relationships in the process. Should you wish, you can choose to have your advice rated. As you accumulate ratings our platform will allow you to soon charge a nominal fee for your time based on your ratings profile. A bit of side money for your trouble if you're decent at it. Those seeking help can choose whatever level of pricing they can afford, including free from those not charging.
Although I have been working on this for almost a year, I decided to delay launch with all that's going on in the world. However, given that so many are having their careers thrown into upheaval and could also benefit from services like peer-to-peer counselling, I have been encouraged to jump in sooner than later and be a part of the solution to what's going on out there.
When you look at the Canadian example, the help is only for tier 1 athletes. I'm hoping my platform can be model that can be of at least a little service for the rest who don't qualify. Crossing my fingers.