Picking the perfect consultancy depends on your specific needs. You might even want to work with a few different firms to tap into their diverse expertise and build your ‘dream team’. No matter who you choose, there are some key qualities to look for:
Expertise and track record
You want senior people with deep industry experience, a strong understanding of relevant methodologies and a proven record of successful implementations across diverse clients. Be wary of large teams of ‘juniors’ that you will need to educate or micro-manage.
Close collaboration with your internal teams
Good consultants will work closely with (or within) your in-house teams. Critically this helps make best use of the skills that your organisation already has, and adds skills and capacity that you might need on a short-term basis. We strongly believe that a great consultancy will put your programme first and do whatever it takes to help you succeed.
Proven models and methodologies
Competent consultancies have well-tested models and processes that turn strategies into real-world change. Think of it as ‘implementation science’ – they have the tools to get things done smoothly and make complex tasks look easy. In our case we have a uniquely sophisticated
approach to running programmes, managing stakeholders, detailed models for defining programme requirements and success criteria, and a proprietary closure process (PCF ™) suitable for a highly regulated environment.
Honesty and objectivity
Consultants must be collaborative and supportive, but they also need to be objective. They should be able to deliver the tough truths and ask the hard questions that your own team might shy away from.
Rapid response capabilities
They should be able to scale their team up or down quickly to meet your project's needs, bringing in the right experts when needed and giving you the confidence that you and your team can achieve challenging goals.
Strong Communication skills
Your consultancy should excel at keeping you informed, actively involving your leadership team, and encouraging open dialogue with your employees at all levels.
Aligned with your priorities
Consultants are there to deliver your agenda and solve the problems you define. They may identify other challenges, but they shouldn't tackle them at the expense of the agreed scope unless they're truly critical.
Visible and measurable results
A top-notch consultancy prioritises clear, measurable outcomes with regular progress reports. Even in long-term projects, you should see results quickly. Tasks get done, materials get delivered, and deadlines are met – by both your in-house teams and the consultants. Once a great consultancy is involved, you should feel the pace of the programme accelerate.
Knowledge transfer for lasting outcomes
Consultants should train your team throughout the programme, rather than leaving this to the final few weeks. There should be clear handovers when transitioning to ‘business as usual’. By the time the consultants leave, you should feel that your people own the process and have the necessary know-how to keep things running smoothly and safely.
Energy and a bit of fun
Consultants should energise your team and breathe life into the challenge. Change programmes are important, but they go faster when the people at their heart enjoy the journey. Positivity, passion, a sense of humour and being a good colleague are essential qualities in a successful consultant.
Why Partner with Specialist Management Consultancies?
