Every organisation is different, so it is worth doing some digging to find out what consultant is the best fit for your unique challenges. Here are some handy tips to finding the best business consultant for your unique situation:
1. Look for a broad-based consultant who does not specialise only in one area.
Niche consultants can be good for certain things, but an experienced business consultant with a broad range of skills will have the tools to help you put the pieces of the puzzle together.
2. Seek a consultant who listens and directs rather than telling you what to do.
I encourage you to request a free consultation with one of our business consultants that you are interested in working with. A good consultant understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach and that it is important to listen thoroughly to the concerns of the leadership or owners in order to fully understand the scope of the challenges faced by that organisation. Only then can a plan be developed.
3. Talk to others.
Ask around to find out who other successful business owners are working with to achieve their business goals. You can also ask potential business consultants for references whom you can contact prior to signing on with him or her.
4. Look for a detailed plan of action.
Some business owners mistakenly hire business coaches or consultants without a clear-cut plan of action for tackling challenges, meeting goals, and ultimately growing their businesses. Ask for a plan in writing regarding what the consultant plans to do and how success will be measured along the way.
5. Don’t fall for name-dropping.
It would be easy to be “wowed” by a business consulting firm that listed Amazon among its past clients. That’s great, but it may not translate to success with your business. Instead, find out how they have done with a small or mid-sized industrial, manufacturing, or retail business like yours. Maybe you run a non-profit organisation. Whatever the case, look for relevant experience from your business consultant.
Once you have narrowed down the list to the most qualified business consultant for your specific needs, talk with each person to find the one that you are most comfortable with. After all, change is a process—not an event. You will have to work with this person on a regular basis to get the best results.