Brand or Die!

A Small Business Survival Guide

Why should I hire a consultant?

  • Posted: 10:29 AM
  • |
  • Author: Mikal J. Caldwell

As a brand strategy and marketing consultant I get this question a lot. Whether explicitly asked or just implied in a potential client's general attitude, it is a valid question that every business owner should ask before retaining a consultant's services. The fact is, however, that outsourcing certain functions is extremely beneficial to a small business. Here are my top 5 reasons why:

1) Expert knowledge and insight

Most entrepreneurs tend to be do-it-yourself types. But just because you know your product or service inside and out, doesn't mean that you're an expert in all of the disciplines that are required to run a successful business. Hiring a consultant gives you access to a subject matter expert that can help guide you in directions that you might not have considered before, or would have even thought of.

2) Cost savings

Have you priced hiring a permanent employee with the skills you need? Not just salary, but benefits, the cost of training and more. If you weigh the cost of hiring an employee that provides the same level of experience and knowledge as your consultant against the consultant's fee, you'll see that the consultant represents a significant cost savings. In addition to that, you also have better control over project costs by hiring a short term consultant.

3) 10,000 foot view

Sometimes, as a small business owner, you are so busy running the business that you never get a chance to step back and see the big picture. Hiring a consultant gives you an objective, third party perspective; someone that actually can see the forest and not just the trees. Effective action requires strategic planning and a consultant can help you gain that strategic advantage.

4) Access to additional resources

As a marketing consultant, I have developed relationships with some of the best graphic designers, PR consultants, SEO providers and other specialists in the business. I've already vetted them and if I maintain a professional relationship with them, it's because they do great work. Any consultant should also provide similar access to a network of service providers that will take the guesswork out of choosing one yourself. In addition, they should be able to negotiate reduced rates for you, based on their professional relationship.

5) Time savings

By hiring an outside consultant, you free up you and your staff's time to focus on core business. It brings an efficiency to your business when you can outsource certain business functions like marketing, payroll, and HR. You're free to focus on business development, or servicing your own clients...or even just taking some time off while people like me are busy working on your business for you.

Wait, on second thought....

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