Business Consultants Continued…

How to Find a Business Consultant

Determine what you want to achieve

The first step in finding a business consultant is defining what you hope to achieve. Next, make sure you understand how your business will benefit from the results the consultant will give you. Finally, decide how long you want the project to take and determine any other constraints that need to be placed on the assignment. In addition, you will also need to clarify what your role will be in working with the consultant.

Get a written proposal

Make sure the consultants you approach are qualified for the assignment. The written proposal should include the consultant's understanding of your needs; a written brief; a description of the consultant's experience and references; the proposed work plan; a description of what reports will be supplied to you; a listing of fees, expenses and payment schedules and what input the consultant needs from you.

Interview a number of consultants

Plan to interview at least three consultants before hiring someone. This will help you see what approaches different people will take. You will also be able to determine which person is the right fit for the project and your company.

Hiring and Beyond

Get it in writing

It's imperative that you sign a contract. It may be a good idea to have an attorney review it and give you any recommendations for changes that need to be made before you sign it. If you have last-minute questions or reservations about anything, clear those up before you commit to the contract.

Stay involved during the assignment

If you're going to use your consultant most effectively, you need to commit your time as well as money. Keep in touch with what is happening on a frequent basis. Schedule regular progress meetings and get other consistent updates.

Implementation

Once the consultant's initial work is done, it may be necessary to have him or her help with the implementation phase. Invite the consultant to meetings with your staff. Be sure to get a written fee quotation for implementation work that will be needed.

By Margaret Evans