Contractors and Consultants

Before you send out that RFP or start contacting IT shops answer this question.

Do you want a consultant or contractor?

Don't listen to the labels people put on themselves. Contractors call themselves consultants and vice versa.

Instead, listen to the questions they ask.

• "What would you like me to do?" = Contractor

• "Why are you interested in doing this project?" = Consultant

• "When can I start?" = Contractor

• "Why are you doing this project now?" = Consultant

• "What's your budget?" = Contractor

• "How does this project impact your business?" = Consultant

• “Who else are you considering hiring for this project?” = Contractor

• “What type of service provider do you think will best serve your company’s needs?” = Consultant

Deciding which questions you want to answer will tell you which person you want to hire.

There are plenty of scenarios where you might want a contractor. Plenty more when you might want a consultant.

Neither is right or wrong. But hopefully, you can start the conversations knowing what you are looking for.

It was good to see you today,

Sawyer