Training
Training

 

THE BUSINESS OF CONSULTING


SELECTING AN EXTERNAL CONSULTANT

From the current economic conditions many business’ have been forced to downsize their departments such as the human resources and training facilities and the result of this is that the use of outside service providers are required. This has created a competitive market for these service providers which can make it a difficult decision when trying to select the right consultant for the businesses needs.

TRUST

Trust is a quality which can only be earned over a period of time. It plays an integral role in ensuring a successful and efficient client-consultant bond. Along with trust, the consultants’ honesty, integrity and performance are put to the test and can make or break the relationship. A checklist can be followed to assess the level of trust that exists with the consultant and the business. The lowest being 1 and the highest being 4.

What is your Trust Quotient?

To what degree do you trust the other person to:

Maintain confidentiality                                 

Respect your opinions                                   

Give open and honest feedback                      

Receive feedback without being defensive      

Deliver what he/ she promises                     

Meet deadlines                                             

Communicate expectations                           

View you as a partner in the process               

Share credit for success                                 

SOURCES

Saving time and money can be saved when the person assigned the job of finding an external consultant knows where to start their search:

  • Internal sources (managers, other human resources personnel)
  • Colleagues in other business’
  • Consultants that the business has used before
  • Industry publications

SELECTION CRITERIA

Once the list of potential consultants has been narrowed down the next step is then choosing just the right one for the job, the one who will ensure a successful outcome. The following list can be used to help with the decision making:

  • Experience in your specific industry
  • Knowledge and experience with the specific topic
  • Length of time in business
  • Knowledge of the industry
  • Knowledge of your business
  • Knowledge and experience in field of HRD
  • Track record of results
  • Quality of materials
  • Level of professionalism
  • Involvement in professional businesses
  • Representative clients
  • Publications
  • Geographic locations
  • Available resources
  • Approach/ philosophy
  • Fees
  • Ability to identify needs
  • Degree of flexibility
  • Level of commitment

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