Given the mix of subject-matter and problem-solving competencies you need in a consultant, how you establish the relationship can make all the difference. Here are some tips to maximize your chances for success.
Q: Why are some consultants better than others?
ACE Advises: Consulting professionals offer services in strategy, operational excellence, finance, IT, diversity, employee engagement, organization, customer service, process effectiveness and innovation.
You may be uncertain as to just what mix of subject-matter and problem-solving competencies you need in a consultant, so how you establish the relationship can make all the difference. What can you do?
1. Invest time up front: It's reasonable to expect up to four hours of the consultant's time at no charge to assess and build the “fit” or chemistry.
a. Ask what they look for in a client.
b. Ask what excites them about possibly working with you.
c. Ask what they have learned about creating lasting positive change.
d. Ask what resources, with different but related skills, they can bring to the situation; and how much experience they have with the resources.
e. Ask them what you can do to ensure success.
2. Hold frequent check-ins: One certainty in management is that a project, no matter how small, will have lots of unexpected challenges and opportunities. Whether it's a half-day workshop or a 36-month transformation process, regular check-ins allow you to adjust planned activities as needed.
At your 15-to-60-minute check-ins, discuss:
a. What's going well, what's worrying you and what you would like their help with. The more open, comprehensive and direct you can be the better.
b. What you are learning through this work together and what you are curious about.
c. What small ideas/shifts won't cost a lot and what planned expenses can be eliminated.
