Organizations
hire consultants to fill gaps in their capability or capacity. Hiring a
consultant can be a strategic, beneficial move for an organization:
-
Many organizations have needs that require
specialized skills, but their needs are not sufficient to justify a
full time employee. By hiring an expert for a limited amount of
time, the organization gets what it needs, maintains control over
the length of the engagement, and reduces overall costs.
-
Consultants may help to supplement an
organization's staff with expertise they don't have. By
supplementing their expertise, the organization is taking the next
step to growing their capability.
-
Consultants can provide a new perspective
and improve objectivity.
First, make a
calculated decision by examining your requirements against your
organization's capability and capacity. If your organization lacks
either, then you should consider a consultant. Be sure to consider all
costs. While consultant's fees will be higher than an employee's salary,
the benefits -no payroll taxes, no health benefits, no profit
sharing cost, plus increased flexibility- usually outweigh the
costs.
Consider the
following items in addition to any lessons that you have learned along
the way:
-
Define what you need to have done in terms
of your organization's capacity and capability -make sure that you
need a consultant.
-
Have a statement of work in hand (at least a
draft) before you contact the consultant...know what you want the
consultant to do.
-
Select a consultant that listens to
you, offers what you need, and has a solid track record.
-
Get a written proposal. Check the
consultant's references and work and product.
If you have any
questions regarding your consulting needs, please
email or
contact Kevin Spieker.