Scope

Before hiring a consultant, you need to define what you want to accomplish or create. The proper consultant can fill the void in your business, but only if you can communicate your needs.

First of all, keep your project goals focused. Second, divide the project into phases, creating manageable chunks of work. In conjunction, gather as much peripheral information as possible: how you run your business; employee input; your future needs and vision; and impacts on customers and vendors. This additional information will give the consultant a broader view of your needs and how you operate your business.

The consultant suitable for you will not only be able to listen effectively to your needs, but will also be able to reiterate what you asked for. Additionally, they should also be able to recognize and suggest enhancements to your project, a sign that they are skilled and aware of your business. A consultant who dictates to you or insists on a rigid solution is NOT working for you.

Relationship

Your relationship to the consultant is very important. Typically, because you are hiring someone who works outside of your field of knowledge, it is hard to evaluate the consultant’s expertise and competence. Therefore, you must develop a relationship. Do you feel that you can trust the consultant? What was your first impression? Does the consultant posses candor? Does the consultant’s ego interfere with your concept of the project? If you find yourself uncomfortable, start your search anew. Consider that your relationship may last many years.

Management

Before starting your project, you should understand how the project will proceed, what you will receive at a given milestone, and the time and costs involved. Ask questions. Read and understand proposals. Use this process as an education.

Once you’ve hired the consultant and started the project, you need to take an active part in the work being performed. Remember that ultimately, this is your vision, and you need to ensure that your vision is realized. Ask for progress reports. Be prepared to work out remedies to problems that develop. Maintain contact with your consultant so that neither party is working in isolation.