I’m a business consultant by trade, one that focuses mostly on sales, project management, and all things relating to tech. I’m proud to have started my own firm, Michael Rustom Inc. We’re only a few years old, having launched in 2022, but we’ve already established a solid reputation for delivering effective results for our clients. It hasn’t always been a walk in the park, though. The competition is stiff and numerous.
It’s no secret that the private business consulting sector has been a bit oversaturated in recent years. Lately, it seems that there isn’t a week that goes by without four or five new and seemingly legitimate consultancy firms opening their doors. And there is no shortage of specialty consultants, either. Beyond what I would deem to be the ‘classic’ areas of consulting, such as management, sales, and finance, there are now niche specialists, such as environmental consultants, cultural consultants, and innovation consultants. And I’m all for it. But only if they genuinely know their stuff.
The point is, for those businesses looking to find professional outside help with an aspect of their operations, the wealth of choice can be staggering, if not outright overwhelming. It is also an unfortunate truth of the industry that some consulting firms try to take advantage of this state of affairs by grabbing the attention of consultant-seeking companies with flashy marketing and superficial gimmicks. While these tactics may seem impressive, they often signal either inexperience or a lack of proven results. In the worst cases, some firms use these tricks because they simply lack the depth of knowledge and effective solutions that client companies truly need. In other words, more often than not, they are big red flags.
So, in such a crowded market, and one that is replete with firms of all sizes, specialties, and competency levels, how can you find a consultant who will genuinely deliver the results that your company requires? I’ve compiled a succinct guide on how to cut through the noise and find a solid consultant who can meet your needs.
Check Their Experience
When you’re looking to hire a consultant, it’s crucial to make sure they have the right experience. Start by checking their background. Look for consultants who have worked within the industry you’re dealing with. For example, if you need help with environmental issues, find someone with a track record in that field—maybe they were a climate researcher for a portion of their career, or maybe a corporate sustainability coordinator. At any rate, conducting a detailed background check will give you an idea of whether they can offer valuable insights based on real-world experience. Also, it pays to review their previous projects and results. A consultant with a history of successful projects is likely to be far more reliable than someone who’s just starting out.
Assess Their Expertise
Next, you should look at the consultant’s expertise in their specialty. A good way to do this is to check their qualifications and credentials. For instance, if you’re hiring a financial consultant, they should have relevant certifications like a CPA or CFA. It’s also a good idea to see if they’re involved in any well-known professional organizations or if they’ve published any work in their field. A well-written, insightful article, notable patent, or high-profile white paper can go a long way in telling you what a prospective consultant is capable of doing. It can show that they’re not only knowledgeable but also respected by their peers. Don’t be afraid to ask for references or testimonials from past clients, either. Genuine feedback on past performance is invaluable.
Evaluate Their Approach and Methodology
Finally, do your best to get acquainted with the consultant’s approach to solving problems. Different consultants use different methods, and you want one whose approach best aligns with your company’s needs. It can be a beneficial exercise to ask them to explain their process and how they plan to tackle your specific issues. A qualified consultant should be able to clearly outline their strategy and provide examples of how they’ve used it successfully in the past. Their responses to these and other carefully crafted questions will help you gauge if their methodology is practical, as well as if it’s likely to work for your company’s particular situation.
While it’s tempting to choose a consultancy firm based on flashy marketing or the use of trendy buzzwords in their materials—or even because they’re the first one you happen to find online—it’s important to maintain a laser-like focus on track record and real-world expertise. Make sure they have substantial experience, relevant qualifications, and a solid history of success. Consulting is an investment, so choose wisely to ensure you get the value and results you need.