Selecting the right consultant can be a game-changer for your organization. My first experience as a manager tasked with this challenge left me feeling lost. Luckily, I intuitively met two critical selection targets. The project involved creating a communication video, making it straightforward to assess and compare consultants’ previous work. After careful consideration, I chose the consultant I felt most comfortable with, and whose work impressed me the most. The project was successful, and I gained valuable insights.
Over the past two decades, I’ve hired numerous consultants, worked as a consultant myself, and collaborated with various consultancies. These experiences have shaped my approach to consultant selection, highlighting three essential targets for success:
First, the consultant must be capable of performing the required work. Second, they must integrate effectively with your team, especially those directly involved in the project. Third, a good consultant should enhance your own knowledge and understanding throughout the project.
Let’s delve into each target:
1. **Can the Consultant Do the Work?** While seemingly obvious, it’s crucial to avoid potential pitfalls. Define your project specifications clearly, focusing on measurable outputs in terms of quality, quantity, time, and cost. Use these criteria to evaluate potential consultants. Seek recommendations and thoroughly check references, focusing on past performance against your output criteria. Determine whether you need help defining the problem, implementing solutions, or both. Skilled consultants will actively listen to your needs before presenting solutions tailored to your specific project. Beware of generic, “one-size-fits-all” approaches. An honest consultant will openly discuss their limitations and strengths. Their initial response should meet your quality standards and provide sufficient detail within a reasonable timeframe. Finally, evaluate their depth of expertise in the subject matter and breadth of experience in its application. Ask them what makes them uniquely qualified for your project.
2. **Will the Consultant Fit In?** Compatibility is vital for successful implementation. A consultant’s inability to work harmoniously with your team can hinder results. A consultant should earn the respect and trust of your key stakeholders. Assess their trustworthiness and visualize their integration into your organization. Ensure the individuals you interview will be the ones performing the work, and ask the consultant to describe a “good working relationship” from their perspective.
3. **Will You Learn from the Consultant?** Hiring a consultant provides an opportunity to expand your organization’s knowledge base. Identify the specific gaps in expertise you aim to fill and consider what you hope to learn from the consultant, focusing on both process management and content management. Ensure the consultant strengthens and supports your role within the organization.
If you’re still undecided after meeting all the criteria, consider assigning a small, paid task to the final candidates. This allows you to assess their capabilities and working style firsthand, providing invaluable insight for your final decision.