How to integrate IT consulting support into your business.

When you need help with an IT project or you want to optimize your infrastructure, it’s time to call an IT consultant. This is a person who is well-versed in the realm of IT and leverages their experience to help you achieve your IT goals. While an IT consultant usually takes on a strategic role, they can also perform more involved functions, such as implementation. 

The goal of an IT consultant is to do whatever is necessary to improve your infrastructure in the most cost-effective way possible. Since this is the case, adding one to your team can be a boon for your business if done properly. But what’s the best way to go about working with a consultant?

You know what IT consultants are and that having one on your side can provide numerous benefits. What you may not know, however, is how to bring one onto your team and maximize their impact on your organization. If you are interested in investing in IT consultation, there are a few key steps you can follow to ensure success. Here is what you need to do to unite your consultant with the rest of your team.

No business hires a consultant just to add someone to their staff. There’s a reason why you sought out their technology consulting services. An advisor can be a powerful force for your business, but only when they know what you want from them. So, the first step toward successful integration is clarifying the goals you want them to help you achieve. 

This is a situation where you should be as specific as possible. Explain to them what the project is and what they should be focused on. Let them know your expectations for the timeline of your project. Finally, discuss how you plan to measure success for the project. Don’t forget to maintain regular communication to make sure you both are on the same track.

The services of a consultant aren’t free, so use your time with them as efficiently as possible. Too often, companies hire a consultant and don’t think about the onboarding process or what their workload may be until the advisor’s first day. This leads to organizations scrambling to get everything together and delaying when the consultant can get to work.  

In order to avoid wasting time, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Consider everything your consultant will need to perform their job without restrictions. This may include: 

• Any information pertaining to the job
• A list of people they may want or need to contact 
• A set of business tools like a laptop, phone, email addresses, etc.

Relationships play a big role in business, especially when it comes to consultants. They need to meet with the key team members of the project. Doing this after their first day can be a waste of time. It’s best to fit in a quick meeting before they start so they can become acquainted with the team. This makes integration seamless and allows the advisor to hit the ground running.

An IT consultant may be an expert in IT support, but they aren’t mind readers. Keep in mind that this is likely their first experience with your company. They will need to know information like:

• How decisions are made
• What the hierarchy of your organization is and how to navigate it
• Any jargon or other internal language your team uses
• What priorities guide your strategies

In this aspect, think of them as a new employee who is learning their way. Having the necessary context for how your business works will speed up the integration process and prevent confusion.

42, Inc. is an industry-leading managed service provider that offers services designed to enhance your business. Our team consists of industry experts who are dedicated to helping you achieve your business goals. If you need help with an IT project, our IT consultants are ready to jump in and help.

To learn more about our services, contact us today.