Top 5 Reasons Why Businesses Hire Consultants
Guest Blog Post: Shannon Hall, MBA - Client Advisor for T Exponents
April 2021
You might ask yourself: Why does a business hire a consultant or consultants? Why doesn’t a business deal with problems and conquer issues internally? Here are the most compelling reasons why hiring a consultant can be in the best interest for your organization.
Consultants can be an extension of you and your team: consultants can attack projects you have not had the time to do. Is your team struggling to manage all the projects? A consultant (or consultants) can get it done so your team doesn’t have to, and make you look good in the process.
A consultant can be hired to identify problems in which you may be too close. A good consultant provides a fresh viewpoint that is objective. In addition, a good consultant brings expertise to the table and can provide a perspective based on what they have seen work before.
A consultant can supplement the staff with expertise and experience: are you in need of help but just for a short period of time? Are you in need of someone with specific talents but do not have the right person with available time, or the capabilities to hire and train someone? A consultant can strengthen the team, and even provide the existing team with a lasting higher level of skills and knowledge. In addition, it makes good economic sense to hire a consultant over a full-time employee, as full-time employees must be paid benefits and are expected to be long term. A consultant, or a team of consultants, can get the job done in the time specified and save you money and stress.
A consultant can be an agent for change: many business owners fear change – especially when it’s time to implement new technologies and/or strategies. But change is crucial for businesses to succeed and grow. A consultant can challenge the existing culture without the social pressures that a permanent employee has.
A consultant can prepare you for disruptions: A lesson can be learned with what happened in 2020 - everyone felt the impact of the recent pandemic. Disruptions to the way you do business, especially supply chain, can be costly. Disruption can occur due to other reasons too: political unrest, unexpected taxes and/or tariffs, natural disasters – even a big cargo ship getting stuck in the Suez Canal. Having a plan should disruptions occur can make a huge difference on how companies survive tough times.
Conclusion: A consultant/advisor/counselor comes in many different colors, but you can find a consultant that works for your specific project, challenge or initiative. If you don’t have the time and you can’t do it on your own or you need an outside eye, utilizing a good consulting firm can be a game changer. A good consultant can help push your company forward faster and transform your business.
About the Author
Shannon Hall: Shannon has 20+ years experience as a client advisor and strategic account manager in a variety of industries including Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC). Shannon has a BA in Communications and an MBA in Marketing.
About T Exponents™
T Exponents™ can be a partner in the development of your Supply Chain, IT Assessment/Transformation, M&A, or Construction Management journey. Please let us know if you would like more information, or if you would like T Exponents to assist with your strategy, assessment or implementation project. We can also be a partner in preparing your organization for disruption events.