There’s a joke about consultants — that an emphasis on the “con” part is more important than the rest of the title. The cynic sees it this way: You pay somebody a lot of money to tell you what you already know, making suggestions that aren’t right for your company. The end result is pointless. Or is it? There are cases where consulting can actually help your business.
Planning.org offers six reasons to hire a consultant.
1. To supplement staff time
2. To supplement staff expertise
3. To ensure objectivity
4. To ensure credibility
5. To obtain a variety of skills
6. To deal with legal requirements
How do you find a consultant?
Whether found through a professional referral or on the Internet, consultants are very easy to find. Finding the right one for your business usually isn’t. You have to consider how long the consultant or consulting firm has been around. Look at your annual budget and see if there is a financial gain to be had.
The advantage of hiring the right consultant is that your company is looked at through a fresh pair of eyes. Things you might have never thought about – and strategies you’ve considered but never executed – are some of the positives. If substantial changes are suggested, do you think these changes will be the right changes for your company and your employees?
You want to make sure your relationship with the consultant is clearly established. All expectations are in writing. This article in All Business urges companies to think about how it’s important to have a contractual agreement with the consultant, a background check on him or her, and clearly explaining the project to the consultant.
Hire someone experienced, someone you trust
Get a consultant who truly understands your field and what you’re trying to accomplish. A track of long-term success with similar companies is a good hunch that this consultant can have success with your company as well.
Whatever criticism that is made – or whatever changes that are suggested – ask if the company can realistically take them on. Do you have the opportunity to improve your company or do you risk hurting your company in the long run? Consider the options long and hard.
