Problem-solver for hire
Consultants are hired by companies to solve the complex problems that they cannot solve themselves. Consultants tend to work on projects with a team of other consultants. The day to day work can include doing research for the project, analyzing data models, synthesizing large amounts of information into a clear action plan for the client, creating powerpoint presentations, and presenting to clients.
What types of problems do consultants solve?
Firms can hire consultants for a number of projects. The tasks can include:
- Provide deeper level of expertise. Let us say you are a US based company but thinking of expanding to Asia. You do not know much about the Asian market and have never worked there before. In this case, you might seek help from a consulting firm that has worked with companies based in Asia or companies that have made similar market entry moves such as the one you are considering.
- Offer a fresh perspective. Sometimes having a group of people who are immersed in the business for years can hinder creativity. Bringing in a consulting firm with people who have not looked at the problem before can bring new ideas.
- Fill temporary staffing/expertise holes. Sometimes a firm can encounter a temporary issue such as installing new software system or acquiring another company that needs extra staffing to support. In these cases, a firm might hire a consulting firm who is an expert in these types of transitions and can provide extra resources for a limited amount of time.
- Make tough decisions. Companies sometimes hire consultants to make the hard decisions such as layoffs or company reorganizations.
