Consultant checklist

If you have a problem that you lack the expertise to deal with, using a consultant is a good idea. However, to ensure competence, run through our checklist to ensure that your requirements are met.

Using consultants

Occasionally, you may need to hire in the services of a consultant. If so, you need to ensure that you’ve taken all reasonable steps to engage one who is not only suitably qualified, but has experience of your industry sector. This is where a Consultant Checklist may come in handy.

Using the checklist

The checklist is divided into three main areas, with the first concentrating on your own particular needs. This looks at your reasons for requiring a consultant and whether or not you’ve identified a set of objectives. The second section includes the most pertinent questions to ask of those shortlisted, as it’s vitally important that they can not only show how they keep up-to-date in their chosen field, but also that they have previous experience of your industry sector. The third section is one that’s easily overlooked and concerns what happens during the contract. This refers to briefing staff on exactly what the consultant is being brought in to do, so as to avoid any confusion and what contact they will need to have with staff. It should be kept on file for at least three years as it helps you demonstrate that you’ve taken all reasonable steps to appoint someone with the necessary competence.