Questions to Consider When Hiring a Strategic Planning Consultant

There's a saying that if you ask a consultant, "What time is it?" They might respond, "Let me check your watch."

This somewhat cynical perspective on consultants has some basis, as many have gained a reputation for delivering what clients want instead of what they truly need. However, the right strategic planning consultant can guide organizations toward success.

An effective strategic planning consultant collaborates closely with clients to assess the current situation, identify opportunities and challenges, and develop a comprehensive strategic plan. They leverage their background and experience to provide valuable insights, objective analysis, and strategic recommendations. Consultants help clients think critically and creatively to accomplish their goals by providing an external perspective.

Also, it is important to understand what consultants do not do. They don't push their agendas or solutions. Instead, they collaborate with clients, engage key stakeholders, and facilitate productive discussions to ensure a shared understanding and commitment to the strategic plan.

Nonprofit Strategic Planning Consultants

Consultants specializing in nonprofit strategic planning focus on helping these organizations create effective strategies to fulfill their missions and goals. A key distinction between nonprofit and for-profit strategic planning consultants is the emphasis on social impact and mission-driven results. Nonprofit consultants understand the importance of achieving social, environmental, or humanitarian goals while ensuring financial sustainability.

When hiring a planning consultant, you should consider several factors to ensure a fruitful partnership. First, conduct thorough research on potential candidates. Seek recommendations from trusted sources like clients and vendors. Review their track record and assess their experience in your field or sector. Look for consultants who have worked with organizations similar to yours, as they will have a better grasp of the unique challenges and opportunities you face.

Examining the consultant's approach and methodology is equally important to their qualifications and experience. A good consultant should be a collaborative partner who effectively listens to your organization's needs and goals. Avoid consultants who apply a one-size-fits-all approach or impose their agenda without considering your organization's unique context.

Trust your instincts. An effective strategic planning consultant should have the necessary expertise and possess strong communication skills, adaptability, and a genuine passion for your organization’s success. You should feel a good rapport with the consultant and trust them to lead your company through the strategic planning process.

Interview Questions for Hiring a Strategic Planning Consultant

Interviewing and hiring a strategic planning consultant requires careful consideration and asking the right questions to ensure alignment with your organization's needs. Here are seven targeted questions to pose during the interview:

• Can you share examples of successful strategic planning initiatives you've led in similar organizations? What were the primary challenges, and how did you address them?
• What is your typical approach to the strategic planning process? Could you outline the steps or framework you follow?
• How do you engage stakeholders in the strategic planning process?
• Can you provide an example of a strategic planning project where you encountered challenges or resistance within the organization? How did you manage it, and what was the outcome?
• How do you ensure that the strategic plan aligns with our organization’s mission, vision, and values?
• What continuous support do you provide after developing the strategic plan to ensure its implementation?
• How do you measure the success and effectiveness of the strategic planning process?

These questions can give you valuable insights into the consultant's expertise, approach, and compatibility with your organization. Additionally, trust your instincts and assess how well you connect with the consultant personally and professionally.

Understanding the Strategic Planning Consultant's Cost

Several factors affect the overall investment when determining a strategic planning consultant's fee. The work complexity and scope are among the primary factors to be considered. Consultants typically set their fees based on the effort required, which includes the size and intricacy of your organization, the number of stakeholders engaged, and the depth of the strategic planning process. For example, a small nonprofit may require a less extensive approach compared to a large multinational corporation.

Also, the consultant's experience affects the cost. Generally, more experienced consultants command higher fees. Those with a proven track record and specialized expertise in your sector often charge premium rates because of the added value and insights they bring to the strategic planning process.

Moreover, consultants offering additional services beyond the planning phase—such as implementation support or ongoing training—may have higher fees due to the resources and commitment involved.

It's critical to evaluate the value that consultants offer rather than just the quantity of hours they work when evaluating their fees. Consider the consultant's potential influence on your company's strategic planning process and the results they could assist you in achieving rather than the number of hours they worked. This is a much better way for a strategic planning consultant to determine the return on investment.

Maximizing the Value of Collaborating with a Strategic Planning Consultant

Successfully working with a strategic consultant requires a collaborative and proactive approach from the client and the consultant. As the client, you have several key responsibilities to foster a productive relationship:

1. Communicate Clearly

Open and transparent communication is essential for a successful partnership. Clearly express your goals, expectations, and any specific challenges you face. Encourage the consultant to ask questions, seek clarification, and provide regular updates on their progress.

2. View the Consultant as a Partner

Consider the consultant a trusted partner rather than an external entity. Collaborate to develop strategies, address issues, and make informed decisions.

3. Provide Essential Resources

Ensure that you provide the information, data, and resources that the consultant needs to perform their work efficiently. This includes sharing relevant documents, granting access to key stakeholders, and facilitating communication with internal teams.

4. Embrace Change and Adaptability

Recognize that strategic planning often involves change and may require adjustments to existing processes or structures.

5. Commit to Implementation

A successful partnership extends beyond the planning phase. Hold yourself and your team accountable for implementing the agreed-upon strategies. Delegate responsibilities, set clear timelines, and establish accountability mechanisms to track progress.

Questions to Ask a Strategic Planning Consultant

You may have started working with a strategic planning consultant and are unsure about the progress. So, consider asking the following questions:

1. What is the strategic plan's overall timeline, and are we meeting the predetermined milestones?

This question helps evaluate whether the consultant is meeting expectations and if the project is progressing as planned.

2. What specific outcomes or deliverables can we expect at each stage of the strategic planning process?

Seek clarity on expected deliverables at various stages to assess whether the consultant is providing necessary outputs that align with your expectations.

3. How do you integrate our organization's unique challenges and goals into the strategic plan?

Assess the consultant’s understanding of your organization’s context to ensure that their approach is customized to meet your organization’s specific needs.

4. How well do your frameworks or methodologies direct the strategic planning process?

Understand the consultant's approach and methodologies to assess their suitability and effectiveness for your organization.

5. How are key stakeholders involved in the process, and what steps are taken to ensure their continued support?

Engaging and securing stakeholders’ support is critical for successful implementation. Ask the consultant how well they engage important stakeholders and maintain their support during the process.

6. Can we review the metrics and indicators used to measure progress and success?

Ask about the specific metrics or indicators the consultant uses to assess the impact and effectiveness of the strategic planning efforts. Ensure that these are reviewed regularly.

7. When and how will we implement the strategic plan?

Clarify how the consultant will support the implementation stage. Inquire about their role in supporting the plan execution, whether they provide guidance, and to what extent they will offer ongoing support or follow-up services.

These questions clarify the consultant's approach, progress made, and alignment with your organization's needs, helping you evaluate whether the process is on track and address any concerns you may have.

In Conclusion

Your organization's strategic planning success depends on choosing the right consultant. You can ensure a fruitful partnership through careful research and asking the right questions. Remember to trust your instincts and assess compatibility with the consultant. A successful relationship depends on efficient cooperation and clear communication. Also, be sure to share necessary resources and embrace change. Following these steps allows you to maximize the strategic planning process and ensure a prosperous future for your organization.