Find Top Business Consultants Near You

Business Consultants

Who do you call when you have a business problem? Business consultants and consulting firms have the expertise, experience and knowledge to help you identify and tackle issues, improve performance, reduce losses and increase profits. From starting a business and finance to marketing and management consulting, there is no problem too big or too small for a business consultant.

Our goal is to introduce you to the services offered by business consultants and how they can add value to your business. We can also introduce you to business consultants in your local area. 

What is a business consultant?

A business consultant is an expert in finding and implementing solutions for particular issues in your business. They work closely with you on a wide array of issues including strategy and planning, management, operations and processes, pricing, sales and profitability. Business consultants usually have expertise in a particular field of business and have experience dealing with the very problems you are facing. They can give you objective advice and help you initiate positive changes.

What is the difference between a business consultant and a business coach?

The key difference between a business consultant and a business coach is their area of expertise and service offering. A business consultant focuses on particular area of business you are struggling with and helps you accomplish your goals, whereas a business coach provides a more holistic service to help you fulfil your potential as a business owner over time. 

Why should I hire a business consultant?

Running a business is tough. No matter how passionate or hardworking you are, there may come a time where you need to step aside and get outside help. Below are some common examples of when you might decide to hire a business consultant:

• You're starting a business and could really do with some guidance to steer you in the right direction 
• You lack experience or skills in a particular area such as marketing, accounting or business management 
• Things aren’t working as well as they could be but you can’t pinpoint what the specific problem is
• You have business goals but they seem out of reach and you don’t know how to bridge the gaps
• There are many moving parts within your business that could be tightened up to reduce costs and increase profits, but you don't know how to approach it
• You are about to undergo significant changes and could benefit from getting advice from someone who's 'been there done that".

What services do business consultants offer?

Business consultants offer services in almost every industry, market and niche. The services they offer include:

• Assistance with starting a new business 
• Business planning
• Business strategy
• Identifying problems and finding solutions
• Guidance with decision making
• Employee training 
• Performance objectives
• Human resources
• Processes and operations audits 
• Sales and marketing

Should I hire a business consultant when starting my own business? 

Starting a business is both daunting and exciting.  Prior to setting up shop, there are legal documents to complete, business plans to create and marketing strategies to devise. Once you’re up and running, there are operational roadblocks to navigate through, customers to target and staff to retain. Whatever your particular situation is, a startup business consultant is a great source for targeted, objective-based work.

Here are some ways a business consultant can help you:

• Writing a solid business plan 
• Holding space for you to step back and assess things objectively 
• Gaining access to their professional network for business opportunities
• Analysing your business and where it’s headed to map out your growth journey 

How does hiring a business consultant work?

Consultants or firms are usually hired on a project basis until you have achieved what you set out to achieve with them. You will usually enter a short contract (usually starting from 3 months) with the option to amend or review the contract depending on how things go.

Good results and progress don’t happen overnight, so it’s important to make a commitment with your consultant, and yourself, to maximise the time and money you spend.

How do I hire a business consultant?

Look for these criteria when hiring the best business consultant for your business:

• They've solved similar problems: Most issues are unique, but they usually have a common ground. Hire business consultants who have solved problems common to yours.
• They take time to understand your business: Every solution should be specific to your issue and not taken from a previous case study. This requires them to listen, understand and ask you the right questions.
• They can build a realistic action plan: They may have a viable solution, but they should be able to demonstrate an action plan that's doable and realistic with the time and resources your small business has.
• They have good reviews: Read online reviews or reach out to past clients they have dealt with to shortlist a few business consultants or firms.
• They have adequate resources: Your business may require more than a one-man outfit to solve your issues, so hire accordingly.
• Find someone you can get along with: Although you may only work together for a short period, you should hire based on working synergy to get the best result.
• Set clear goals and scope: This must start with you because setting the appropriate goals and project scope is the first step towards success.
• Get your staff involved: You can only improve if all your staff is on board with the changes recommended by consultants. Ensure your employees get adequate time, training and input into the project.
• Spend time on your contract: Get down to the nitty-gritty details of your contract because it is easy to overlook, assume, over or underestimate a project.

How much does it cost to hire a business consultant?

The average hourly rate for a business consultant is usually between $100 to $150 per hour. However, the real price is determined by how much value you are gaining. Think of what you will gain and how you will be able to apply it to your business, and essentially, your long term success.

There is also the option to choose a business consulting package that can add more value. It usually includes a number of one-hour meetings per month, on-site visits to assist your communications with vendors and group workshops with other entrepreneurs.

Where can I hire a business consultant?

You can find and hire a business consultant right here on SavvySME. Simpy answer a few questions, submit a request and we’ll introduce you to business consultants that can help.