Working Effectively with Consultants

 

WHEN TO USE CONSULTANTS:

Using consultants may be the most cost-effective way to solve business problems when you need:

• UNIQUE SKILLS - Consultants can provide the specialized experience and knowledge not available within your organization.

• ONE-TIME AND OVERLOAD HELP - Consultants can provide assistance for peak periods or special projects to help equalize the work load of your permanent staff.

• INNOVATION - Consultants can contribute fresh thinking and serve as catalysts for change within organizations.

• TRAINING - Consultants can work at all levels of organizations to present formal seminars and one-on-one coaching.

 

HOW TO MAXIMIZE THE CONTRIBUTION OF CONSULTANTS:

• Define the task carefully before hiring consulting services; consultants will often work with you to establish the initial scope of the work.

• Agree on appropriate checkpoints and expected results at the outset.

• Introduce consultants as early in the process as possible.

• Provide necessary support and data.

• Monitor progress and provide direction periodically.

• Obtain a final report of recommendations and results.