Making the Best of Use of a Consultant
by Kelsey Luffman

The ever-present challenges before nonprofits – to challenge the status quo, whether within the organization or in society as a whole; to use creativity in connecting and serving communities; and to do so passionately and efficiently – have taken on a new significance in the face of the economic downturn. The difficulty of keeping a fresh, innovative perspective while fostering an organization’s growth in the midst of nationwide financial uncertainty may encourage some nonprofits to hire a consultant for a fresh perspective and practical know-how. In their blog The Sustainable Nonprofit, Derrick Feldmann and Dave Sternberg, president and vice president, respectively, of Achieve, a consulting firm for nonprofits, offer some tips for choosing and maximizing the services of a consultant.

 

1) The first step is to determine why you need a consultant. Does your nonprofit face a pivotal point in its history where you could use advising and direction? Do you need help evaluating your mission and/or how that mission is functionally carried out? Clearly outline your expectations, and keep those points as your key resource while undergoing the consultant search.

 

2) Decide how a consultant’s role will correspond to your aims, since these professionals can serve in a diverse number of functions. Do you expect more help through advising or through carrying out tasks? Ways in which consultants commonly serve include “fundraising, board orientation and development, strategic planning, executive search, facility planning, membership promotion, marketing, public relations, and event planning.”

 

3) In seeking out a consultant, the best way to start is often by conferring with fellow nonprofits who have found success in using one. Feldmann and Sternberg also suggest utilizing groups such as the Association of Fundraising Professionals or the Alliance for Nonprofit Management while conducting research.

 

4) Once you have gathered names of specific firms or individuals that interest you, examine the differences among backgrounds and areas of expertise. And keep in mind that while hiring an individual is less costly, hiring a firm presents more of an opportunity for pooling ideas and experience.

 

5) Once you’ve chosen your consultant, draw up a contract outlining specific long-term goals, details of when and how progress and concerns are to be communicated, and payment specifics.

 

6) A good consultant will be committed to your project, straightforward about progress and concerns, knowledgeable about the philanthropic climate, and wise about how to best apply their knowledge your organization's unique situation. With the help of an experienced and dedicated professional who shares your nonprofit's vision, your organization is sure to be better equipped to carry out its goals.

 

Information taken from: Derrick Feldmann and David Sternberg. “What to Do When Hiring a Consultant.” The Sustainable Nonprofit.

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