The role of a Management Consultant.

Unfortunately for the small business world, owners don’t typically look to a management consultant until they are in dire straits. Money is running out, your suppliers are at your door, and payroll seems to never end (here’s a hint-it doesn’t). But with a good consultant on board, these issues could have been avoided long ago.
Why? Because the normal issues in business are not the problem. For the small business owner, the real issue is accountability. Staying motivated and accountable to someone is extremely difficult over time, especially when the monotony of the day to day development kicks in. Usually, the business was started by someone very skilled in his particular field, but not necessarily so in business. And soon, the initial excitement wears off, and the issue staying motivated kicks in.
Not only will a great consultant give you direction, and the knowledge necessary to accomplish your goals, but he will break down your long term goals, setting smaller, attainable, ones. It is a simple concept, yet often hard to stick to. Consider, for example, weight loss. If one has 100 pounds to lose, it seems daunting. Break it down to 10 pounds a month for 10 months, it becomes far more manageable. A great consultant becomes your guide. He will help you set small goals, and then be there for the “weigh-in”, keeping you focused on the big picture.
Often, consultants are hired to perform a specific task, say, develop a sales team or install a computer network. A management consultant should be regarded differently. Establish a long term relationship with a consultant you trust, and he will be with you every step of the way. You should feel free to call with issues, even between meetings, and he should keep you motivated. Your regular meetings should review past goals and set new ones, establishing a level of responsibility to your consultant, working with him in paying attention to even the smallest of details.
To make this work, don’t wait until you’re in dire straits, and desperate for help. Start earlier, even as you start your company, in working with the right consultant. Look for one that is priced to allow you a long, steady partnership, and in the end, the result will be a company that enjoys consistent growth. There will always be issues, but very few that good management cannot handle, and a great consultant will partner his skills with yours to maintain a healthy company.