Tips on Hiring a Consultant
Hiring a consultant requires more than asking someone who meets the minimum qualifications to sign off on a license application. Ideally, it will develop into a long-term, trusting, collaborative relationship. Both consultant and operator need to agree to the extent and terms of service and together develop a realistic plan that meets regulations and fulfills the expectations of both parties. An interview with more than one consultant is desirable, approaching the opportunity for relationship much like hiring for any other position. The following four components of an introductory meeting cover the basic information exhange necessary for consultants and operators to make a decision on “good fit.” Both parties need to feel comfortable after reflection over the information learned. Although this was originally written for education consultants, much of it is applicable to health and social service consultants as well.
Interview – The operator will:
· Learn the background, experience, areas of expertise, and
level of education of the consultant
· Learn about the connections the consultant has to resources, professional associations, and agencies that support consultation
· Share the philosphy and mission of the program
· Learn the educational philosophy and orientation of the consultant
· Share the goals of the program for improvement and development
· Share the needs of the staff in professional development
· Identify conflicts of interest between the consultant and the program
Tour of the Facility – The consultant will:
· Observe classroom environments in operation if possible
· Observe additional facilities such as playgrounds, common
activity areas, meeting and staff spaces.
Overview of the Educational Program – The operator will:
· Share the center’s curriculum framework and approach
· Share documentation and assessment procedures used
· Explain policies and procedures that affect the educational program
Administrative Overview – The consultant will:
· Learn who operates the program and the role they have in
the administration of the program
· Learn the role of the director, head teacher, and others in an administrative/supervisory role with whom there will be contact
· Explain the terms of a consultation contract, describe services and conditions, limitations, insurance, fees, etc.
· Outline a preliminary plan for the use of the consultant including reference to regulations, operator expectations, or 3rd party requirements
Reflecting on the Introductory Meeting - Questions that both operator and consultant should consider:
· Do the consultant and operator understand and accept each other’s philosophy and share a common vision?
· Does the consultant have the skills and expertise necessary to fulfill the goals this program has?
· Does the consultant have adequate networks and resources to support and enrich the consultation process?
· Is there a conflict of interest in terms of competing programs, funding sources, or relationships?
· Can the consultant work comfortably at the level of quality where this program functions and have realistic expectations for improvement?
· Does the consultant understand the educational program and have experience with the curriculum, approach, and assessment procedures used?
· Does the consultant understand and feel they would be effective with the cultures and community this program serves?
· Does the consultant communicate well with the operator? Was the meeting productive and comfortable?
· Is there understanding and agreement on terms of the contract and expectations, including where they are required by a 3rd party?
· Will the consultant have a relationship with all parties involved in the administration/operation of the program? If not, how will that impact progress or success?