How to choose the right consultant for your business
If you are considering the use of a consultant, you want to be confident that you will have effective project delivery and consequently good value for your investment. What should you be looking for to ensure that you are making the right choice ?
High Quality Marketing Material
The marketing material will probably be the first exposure that you will have to a consulting organisation. Are the brochures, flyers and websites professional, well designed, concise. Do they give you the information you need ? Do they project a professional image of the consultancy.
Professional Image
First impressions count. The consultant should arrive on time for all client appointments. It is important that he or she is smartly dressed, in a style that is appropriate for the particular client situation. The consultant must appear interested and attentive at all times.
During a project, the consultant should respect the house rules covering issues such as arrival and departure times, parking, meal times and general office behaviour.
Relevant Previous Experience
You want to be confident that you will receive value for money from your consultancy investment. The consultant can demonstrate this value for money by showing previous experience that is relevant to the current project. Where it is realistic, the consultant should be able to demonstrate the transferability of such experience to your proposed project.
General and Business Sector Knowledge
A good general knowledge and a good knowledge of the client's business sector will help enhance the credibility of the consultant. This will demonstrate breadth of knowledge as well as specialist consulting knowledge.
Such general knowledge will also facilitate the establishment of rapport with your personnel if and when the project proceeds.
Proven Track Record
A proven track record will show that the consultant has successfully delivered in a number of projects. This will demonstrate to you that your investment is likely to be successful.
Testimonials
Testimonials give 3rd party feedback on the quality of the consultant. Where possible, obtain contact details, so that you can speak directly with the person who has supplied the testimonial
Developing Trust
Trust is essential in the consultant-client relationship. If trust is established at an early stage, this will significantly improve the client-consultant relationship. Trust is established via communication and behaviours demonstrated. Trust is earned, not given.