Choosing Big Consultancy vs Boutique: Clients' Guide to Consulting

What is consulting? Consulting is like having an expert friend on hand to helps you solve business problems. Whether you're a small or large business owner, particularly if you're experiencing some "growing pains", you might need some outside help to grow or find and resolve issues in your business. But choosing the right consultancy can be tricky. When it comes to picking a consultancy, you have two main options: big consultancies and boutique or independent consultants. From a client's perspective, each has its own pros and cons. Big consultancies are like huge machines. They have many resources, lots of staff, and a wide range of services. They can handle large, complex projects and bring in experts from different fields. However, they can also be expensive and sometimes lack the personal touch. You might feel like just another client in a long list. On the other hand, boutique consultancies or independent consultants are smaller and more specialised. They often focus on specific industries or types of problems. Because they are smaller, they can offer a more personal and tailored service. They are usually more flexible and can adapt quickly to your needs. However, they might not have the same level of resources or breadth of expertise as the big firms. So, what are the problems you might face when choosing a consultancy? Top of the list for most clients: cost. Big consultancies can be very expensive, which might not be ideal for SMEs. Next: culture fit and approach. Not every consultancy will understand your specific business needs or industry. Third: availability and capacity. Some consultancies might be too busy with bigger clients to give you the attention you need. Here are some recommendations to address these problems: 1. Set a Budget: Before you start looking for a consultancy, know how much you can afford to spend. This will help you narrow down your options and avoid overspending. 2. Do Your Research: Look for consultancies that have experience in your industry or with businesses like yours. Check their track record and ask for references. Even better, can you get personal recommendations or intros to an individual or company someone you know has worked with? 3. Ask Questions: When you meet with potential consultancies, ask about their approach, their availability, and how they plan to tackle your specific problems. Make sure they understand your business. 4. Look for Flexibility: Choose a consultancy that can adapt to your needs and is willing to offer a personalised service. This is often easier to find with boutique or independent consultants. 5. Check for Compatibility: Make sure you feel comfortable with the consultancy and that they listen to you. A good fit can make a big difference in the success of the project. These tips should help you find a consultancy that fits your budget, understands your business, and can provide the personal attention you need. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can choose a consultancy that will help you solve your business problems and achieve your goals. Whether you go with a big consultancy or a boutique one, the key is to find the right match for your specific needs (not just the one with the biggest marketing spend, shiniest deck or loudest salespeople!).