By: Brent Longnecker, Founder & CEO of 1 Reputation
I once had one of my consultants tell me that “experience was overrated”. I was shocked he said that, but probably was simply an insecurity he had since he had only been in management consulting for 10 years. The client he said this too though, was equally shocked and proceeded to explain to him what clients look for in their advisors. Now, with almost 40 years of experience, I thought I’d share what I think are critical factors to consider when looking for an outside advisor. Specifically:
1. EXPERIENCE: Look into the consultant’s years of experience in the industry and their track record of successful projects or engagements.
2. EXPERTISE: Consider the specific areas of expertise that the consultant possesses and whether they align with the organization’s needs. A consultant's specialization and depth of knowledge in relevant fields can significantly impact their effectiveness.
3. REPUTATION: One of the reasons my wife and I chose the name of our company as 1 REPUTATION is simply the fact that one’s reputation is the most important asset you have in business. But it also applies to those you hire. So research the advisors' reputation within their industry or professional network. Seek references from previous clients or colleagues to gain insights into their working style, professionalism, and ability to deliver worthwhile results.
4. TRUTH: You’d be surprised at how many firms lie on their websites. Offshoots of my original company use my litigation support expertise as theirs. Others, take my name off of books I published to look like it was just them. This is false advertising and goes to the issue of trust. If they will lie on their website, they will lie anywhere else. Don’t just walk away… run!
5. COMMUNICATION AND COLLABORATION: You need to assess whether or not the consultant demonstrates strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with your team. Clear, scheduled, and open communication is crucial for a successful consulting engagement.
6. CUSTOMIZATION and PROBLEM SOLVING: Processing and solving skills are in rare supply. I always hated my consultants coming to me to share all the problems they saw. The client would not have hired us IF NOT for those problems. Good consultant PURPOSES to solve... not rationalize excuses for failure. Great consultants should have a problem-solving mindset and ability to provide customized solutions that meet your specific needs. “Cookie -cutter”/ off-the- shelf solutions never work.
7. RELATIONAL VS. TRANSACTIONAL: That same client that wanted to make the point of the importance of expertise also wanted to point out to the individual involved that he made them feel like “an ATM machine”. Or said another way, just a transaction. Great advisors want to build a relationship with their clients. I used to call it “Relational Customization”, which is what every client wants and deserves... but only a select few advisors can deliver.
Remember, it is essential to conduct thorough research, gather information, and potentially interview and speak with firms you are considering. You and your company deserve the very best.
We here at 1 REPUTATION can help you through your process of selection if need be.
"Successful and unsuccessful people do not vary greatly in their abilities. They vary in their desires to reach their potential."
John Maxwell
Commenti