How can Integrity Management Solutions Group help your team?
When should a business retain a consultant?
When you are making a change to your business practices it can require expert advice in that area. Professionals often make the mistake of thinking a consultant is only necessary if you are making a major change or shift in your business, consultants can also add value just by reviewing and improving your existing operations.
What will a consultant cost?
Some consultants charge based on the project while others are on billable hours. Some jobs may be set up as a bundled package. Most consultants require a retainer and bill travel expenses separately. It is always best to ask the consultant to provide a quote.
Should I sign a letter of intent or a contract?
Yes, because these types of agreements and contracts help protect you as much as the consultant. By clearly outlining the project goals and objectives, requirements for success, costs and time line for the project as well as any other expectations, you are getting the project on the right track. These agreements help you be more thoughtful about what you want to get out of the project.
What can I expect from a consultant?
You need a person whose behavior is governed by a code of ethics and who is intently interested in helping you achieve your goals. Consultants are experts in their field of interest and know where to find the right answers to help you grow and improve the operations of your practice.
How do I choose a consultant for my business?
Be clear on your goals, needs and time lines. Check references and interview potential consultants. Then ask yourself if your communication styles match and if you and your team feel the consultant will be a good match.
What do I need to do to get my staff to embrace changes?
One of the keys to gaining staff acceptance is to include them throughout the entire process, from consultant selection to completion of the project. No one knows more about your practice than you and your staff and by working together as a team with the consultant you will find the best solution together. A seasoned consultant will specifically tailor their approach to your individual practice, and should not deliver a canned approach. The overall plan will include ways to make sure your staff embraces the coming changes.
How do I get the most out of working with a consultant?
- Select a consultant with the right skill set for your business.
- Learn about the different types of consultants
- Understand when you need to hire a consultant
- Choose a consultant that will meet your style and the culture of your practice.
The successful management of a practice is a complex challenge. It may be increasingly difficult to remain current in all areas of medicine for all patients, it is also difficult to know all aspects of good business management. By hiring a consultant, you get an expert who remains current in his or her field of expertise. Like hiring any team member, engaging a consultant should be a well planned and thoroughly researched process. There are many types of consultants some may have several areas of expertise while others specialize in one area.
Here is a list of a few types of consultants:
Business Management
Encompasses day to day management of the office functions. Areas covered include recruiting, hiring, training and retaining staff, managing work flow, accounts receivable, accounts payable, inventory control, client service, facilities management, as well as financial analysis and budgeting.
Human Resource Management
Includes employment law compliance, recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, training and education and performance management. Consultants advising clients in human resource management typically have acquired skills and knowledge from training and certification from industry recognized and accredited human resource programs. Consultants stay current in their knowledge of specific areas of human resources through further certification, credentials or continuing education
Speaking and Presenting
Consultants present locally, regionally, nationally and sometimes internationally on management topics.
Integrity Management Solutions Group
2072 Sprint Blvd Apopka, FL 32703 (407) 694-9032
Sbradford@intmsg.com
