Video  Finder
10 Point Checklist for Briefing a Consultant
This title is part of the Take Away Training Series
Duration: 16 minutes
Synopsis
Get the most out of consultants by following a simple, yet powerful briefing checklist.
Key Learning Points

1. Don't believe the hype

  • Obtain names, contact details of previous clients
  • Check references to see how consultant has delivered similar program

2. Be clear about outcomes

  • Be specific about what you want to achieve
  • A meaningful business problem

3. Separate outcomes from solutions

  • Focus on the actual problem to be solved - avoid "we want you to do..."
  • Access internal information - confidentially

4. Off the shelf or tailored?

  • Ask the question
  • If tailor-made - who owns the solution?

5. Negotiate time and cost

  • Clarify key timelines, milestones
  • Payment by time spent or result delivered?
  • 'Hidden' costs
  • Requirement for internal resources

6. Clarify all roles

  • Who is the consultant, who is the client
  • What do you expect from each other?
  • Approval procedures

7. Ensure understanding of corporate culture

  • Brief them on corporate values, political structures, key current issues in the organisation
  • The way we do things here
  • Helps consultant avoid generating resistance

8. Anticipate problems

  • Consultant's five most likely problems
  • Have written contingency plans
  • Costs

9. Agree on reporting procedures

  • Who, when, how, on what?
  • Determine two-way feedback
  • Be up-front

10. Follow-up available

  • Accessibility once job complete
  • Problems - whose fault?
  • Negotiate fee arrangements regarding follow-up in advance

Characteristics of a good consultant:

  • In and out fast
  • Focused on results
  • Wants to save client's money
  • Encourages client independence
  • Professionalism and integrity
Package Description
DVD
Recommended Audiences
  • Managers
Distributed in the following format(s)
  • DVD
Available in the following language(s)
  • English
Media Type
 Video Recording
Presentation Style
  • Interview
STOCK CODE
TAT55
ISBN
9781925287769
Published
Melbourne
Filming location
Australia
Release year
2001
Remastered year
2006
Copyright owner
ClickView
Publisher
Seven Dimensions