How to Hire a Consultant

Do you need an expert, impartial third party to deliver information that management doesn't want to hear or will only believe from someone outside of your company? Need some objectivity and outside expertise for a business solution? Bringing in a consultant can give you a new perspective and speed up your business' decision–making process. There are, however, some questions that you should consider first.

Are you using a consultant for a source of contract staff rather than for expertise? Are you bringing in help to analyze a problem only to put off an inevitable decision? If you answered 'yes' to either of these questions, you should reconsider whether you have a valid need to hire a consultant.

Moving forward

If you have decided that you need a consultant, you should compile a list of candidates that are generally well–known in your particular field and have prior experience with the type of project you are planning. All of the potential candidates should have a demonstrable track record and sound referrals. Here are some guidelines for choosing a consultant:

Request for a proposal

You should draft an RFP that includes:

• A clear statement of the key issues
  
• The project scope
  
• The deliverables you expect
  
• Your time frame for completion of the project

Proposal review and negotiation

Invest time in interviewing candidates — not only to make sure that they understand what the project entails, but also to determine if they will fit in with the culture of your organization. If the consultant gives you a deadline for a response, don't accept it unless it leaves plenty of time to assess the consultant's competence.

The process will probably involve several cycles before the plan and the contract are finalized. Make sure that you are getting the appropriate amount of time from their senior staff. You should also expect a detailed account of staffing, fees and expenses (which should not exceed 15% of the fees).

Once you have decided on the candidate, make sure you have a contract and a work plan that includes a timeline with milestones and an estimated schedule of project updates. If you are relying on a particular person's expertise, make sure that their commitment will be clearly defined.

Project management

Careful planning should insure that work proceeds according to the contract and work plan. However, if you are not satisfied with the quality of the work, or if deadlines are not being met, feel free to call on the consultant's senior associates. At the completion of the project you may receive a follow–up proposal. Make sure that the first contract has been fulfilled before you entertain further work.

Referral services are available online. To start, try the Association of Management Consulting.

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