How to Select an Information Technology Consultant for your Business

Hiring an IT consultant just because he has the words “IT consultant” printed on the resume or business card does not mean he can solve your challenges related to a particular technology or can collaborate with your IT team appropriately. So, how you will find the right IT consultant, someone who understands your business’ requirements and can address your specific IT needs?

Think twice before giving access to your IT software and hardware to technology consulting firms or individual IT consultants because your system contains sensitive and critical information. Here are some of the crucial tips that you can follow for vetting an IT consultant:

Make sure the consultant is experienced

While hiring an IT consultant, you must ensure that the consultant you’re looking for has had immense experience and knowledge working with the companies of your industry. Further, you should also see whether the consultant is certified or not, along with checking his online portfolio. To cross-check the details shared with the consultant, you must refer to the community sites like GitHub, CloudSpokes or Coderbits because it's great to see the actual work done then just take a recommendation. Though references are crucial but checking what the candidate has completed in his previous companies is also very important. It helps you examine his strengths and weaknesses through which you can get a sense of the quality of his work.

Check credentials and affiliations

It is necessary to check the background, experience, and knowledge of a consultant before hiring, but you should also check does he have any industry certifications or accreditations. Also, don’t be afraid to ask if his certifications are up to date to handle the latest versions of the software. If the consultant hasn't pursued such recognition, how long their expertise can take you?

You can also check whether he’s a member of professional organizations like – the Institute of Management Consultants or the Independent Computer Consultants Association, as these memberships indicate that consultants are actively participating in the programs like professional development to keep updating their knowledge and skills.

Look for good communication and collaboration skills

Ask yourself several questions before making a final decision – like how articulate is the consultant? Does he have the ability to convey information to both your existing IT team and the management? IT consultants must be business-savvy with good communication and listening skills to effectively collaborate with the existing IT team. He should understand the technology and be able to articulate it in the business terms according to the management. Additionally, seek someone who is both technically sound and able to interact with others while working collectively and collaboratively.

Determine how they measure outcomes

Make sure that the consultant you have chosen to hire is comfortable in using a measurement system. There are multiple methodologies that can be used to measure readiness improvements and overall progress – like Six Sigma, ITIL and CMM. If he is using any other method to gain outcomes, you should verify it and check whether it complies with the laws or not.

Going through the above-discussed steps could help you get a reliable IT consultant for your business. From questions, you need to ask to steps you need to follow for selecting the desired candidate, this blog includes almost everything that can help you make a better decision for your business.