How To Choose An It Consultant

By Author: Barebones Networking
Total Articles: 3
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Whether you’re a techno-phobe or you know your way around a keyboard blindfolded, choosing the right IT consultant can seem like a perplexing task. If you’re stressed out about finding just the right fit for your business, relax—with a bit of know-how, you can find the perfect match.

Information Technology Qualifications

Is your potential IT consultant certified, or do they hold a degree? Where did they study? The most crucial requirement for any consulting position is know-how, and the easiest way for you to determine skill level is to look at training. While a graduate degree in technology may not be necessary, solid candidates should at least have completed a reputable training program. Do a quick online search of their school if you have doubts.

Tech Business History

Who has this person worked with in the past? You should ask this question not only to gauge the consultant’s skill and experience level, but also to find out if they are working for competitors, or if any other conflicts of interest exist. Also, ask if they can provide references from past employers—this should be no problem ...
... for a quality consultant.

Seeing Eye to Eye

Once you believe your candidate may be qualified for the job, it’s time to discuss your vision. It’s your company, after all, and whatever your IT consultant does should be in line with your goals. How well does the consultant-in-the-running listen to you when you describe your business needs? Do they ask questions? If so, that’s a positive sign, showing engagement in your ideas. If they nod blankly as you discuss your expectations, they may be trouble. Even the most highly skilled IT consultant is worthless to you if they don’t understand your needs.

Communication Skills

You don’t have to be your consultant’s best friend, but he or she does need to be able to talk to you about what’s going on with your business. Once you take them on, your IT Consulting Los Angeles becomes a part of your team, so working together is crucial. A good communicator will be able to fully explain what they’re working on, in terms you understand. They’ll also tell you what their expectations are of you, and contact you when they need assistance. Although it’s not possible know exactly how someone will act once hired, look for clues during the interview process.

IT Service Fee Transparency

Request a clear breakdown of prices for all services provided. You should know precisely what the consultant will provide for you, and how much each service will cost. Get this in writing. If there is ambiguity on how much they will charge, you may have cause for suspicion. The same goes if they try too hard to “up sell” you by including services you did not ask for.

About Author:-
Bare Bones Networking is a local IT Consulting Firm located in Los Angeles, California.