Best Business Consultants in Santa Clara

Q: Questions to ask when hiring a business consultant:

A:

• How much do you charge?Having the right expectations with regards to the company's budget will ultimately determine if a certain consultant is the right fit. 
• Do you have a structured approach to your strategy, or do you make it up as you go?There's no one-size-fits-all solution to businesses, but determining the type of approach a consultant takes toward a business could gauge what's in store.
• How many years of experience do you have in X industry?Even if not directly related, their skillset should be able to translate. For example, a marketing consultant for an outdoor company may do well in other retail environments.
• What sort of analysis or assessment do you typically perform?Some assessments may require little to no interference with daily operations, but others may require multiple team members to be available.
• Do you have references or client testimonials?They say, "The proof is in the pudding." Past performance is often a good indicator of how a consultant performs on a job. Check references, reviews, and previous clients to find out how the consultant helped improve their business. 

Q: What is a typical background for a business consultant?

A: While backgrounds can vary greatly, most business consultants have obtained an MBA and some relevant business experience, such as project management or business development. Most consultants also possess soft skills, such as working well on a team, the ability to publicly present information, such as at a meeting or conference, and problem-solving skills.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a business consultant?

A: Consultants charge different rates. Some charge an hourly or daily rate, while other consultants charge by the total project. They may charge on a value-based structure in which their compensation is directly tied to your company's performance after their change(s) or consultation has been delivered. For hourly rates, the rates can vary from $150 to $1,000 per hour and beyond.