Smart Consulting Sourcing

Hey there, and welcome back to the grand finale of our podcast series, "How to Buy Consulting Services Like a Pro. "Over the past few episodes, we've delved into the intricate world of consulting procurement, exploring the nooks and crannies of this ever-evolving landscape.
But today, we're here to talk about the real heart of the matter - the value of consulting. Buying consulting services like a pro is not about saving a few dollars; it's about investing in potential, and those savings are a delightful byproduct. You see, there's a shift happening in the world of procurement. Mature organizations are no longer just looking at immediate costs; they're looking at the bigger picture.
They're evaluating the entire value equation when it comes to consulting. In this final episode, your favorite host Helene, will guide you through how you can enhance this value creation throughout the procurement process.
It's all about seeing the bigger picture and making sure every step you take adds value to your organization's grand vision.
So, get ready to uncover the true value that goes beyond the bottom line. Tune in!

In the world of consulting, we often talk about how to start a project, manage it, and keep it on the right track. But what about when things don't go as planned? That's where our latest episode of "How to Buy Consulting Like a Pro” steps in, ready to reveal how to masterfully wrap up a consulting project with style and grace.
In this episode, your wonderful host, Helene covers everything from handling unexpected curveballs, and dealing with underperforming consultants, to the nitty-gritty of budgeting and payments. So, whether you're facing an unforeseen twist in your project, or your consultants are performing a disappearing act, we've got the strategies to help you pull off a smooth exit.
This is where you learn how to terminate consulting projects with confidence and professionalism, ensuring that when the curtain falls, it's on a high note.

As we approach the final phase of our journey on how to "Buy consulting services like a pro," today, we will delve into the critical topic of preparing for the transition when the consultants depart. Let us tell you that this is one of the most crucial steps in securing the impact of your project. You might wonder why. Well, projects are inherently temporary, and consultants won't be there forever to support you at every step. Think of it as a child's journey toward independence, acquiring the skills to live a life without perpetual reliance on parents for support. Similarly, you must have a plan in place for the inevitable moment when your consultants bid farewell. From this point forward, you must learn to function without depending on the expertise and support of the consultants. In this journey toward independence, procurement plays a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth transition and preserving the project's legacy. Join Helene in this engaging episode as she reveals how to prepare for this transition.
 

We're now entering the final stage of our journey on how to "Buy consulting services like a pro." Today, we'll delve into managing project performance and daily operations.
Picture this: You're the captain of a consulting project ship, and your consultants are your crew of superheroes. You've got the right team, you've set sail, but now what? That's where this episode comes in.
In this episode, Helene, your trusty host, takes you on an exciting journey into the world of consulting project management. Steering Committees, performance, and teamwork are the stars of the show. Helene reminds us to keep that committee informed, courageously confront low performance, and be ready to reshuffle the consulting team if the fit isn't perfect. But remember, collaboration is the secret sauce! Craft your dream team, wield your time wisely, and let your project soar. So, gear up and get ready to conquer the consulting world, project by project!

Effective project management is imperative for the success of your consulting project. Therefore, as a client, it's crucial to understand the intricacies involved in managing consulting projects. When you buy a car, you simply place an order and wait for the finished product to be delivered. There's no need to inspect the production line or be involved in the manufacturing process.
However, when it comes to consulting services, the dynamics are quite different. Managing the project becomes a crucial aspect of the process if you want to achieve the desired results. In today's episode of your favorite podcast series, "How to Buy Consulting Like a Pro," Helene delved into the world of managing consulting projects.
By managing consulting projects in a structured and organized manner, executives can ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and with high levels of quality and client satisfaction. So, if you are working with consultants, these lessons are your secret sauce for success. Tune in, and let's master this art together!

In the dynamic consulting world, success begins with the artful creation of a consulting agreement. But you know what? Crafting the perfect consulting agreement isn't just about paperwork; it's a masterstroke of strategy, protection, and securing your path to triumph. In the realm of consulting, where every decision carries weight, this foundational document wields unparalleled influence.
In this episode of our fan-favourite series, "How to purchase consulting services like a pro," your delightful host, Helene, takes you on a journey deep into the heart of this all-important masterpiece. Tune in to uncover the secrets of crafting that perfect agreement – one that not only sets crystal-clear expectations but also shields your interests and lays the groundwork for a consulting project that exceeds all expectations.

Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast. Over previous episodes, we've shared multiple aspects of procuring consulting services, from crafting the perfect RFP to evaluating proposals and negotiating with shortlisted firms. In today's episode, we reach the climax where visions become reality—the consulting agreement. Get ready to dive into the process of shaping an agreement that sets the stage for a fruitful partnership.
 
In this episode, your favorite host, Helene, leaves no stone unturned as she explores every facet of this process, from defining project scopes and deliverables to establishing key performance indicators and contractual obligations. As you already know, the mission of this episode is to ensure that you extract the absolute best from your consulting project. Tune in.

Providing feedback to consultants whose proposals fell short is a wise practice. It's a win-win for both parties. Why? Well, reputable consulting firms with the expertise you seek take feedback seriously. When you share your insights, they use that valuable input to address previous shortcomings, increasing their chances of success in future bids. This process is vital for their growth and continued success.
 
But the question remains: how can you effectively communicate your feedback? Breaking the news of rejection is never easy, and nobody enjoys being on the receiving end. The key is to go beyond the simple "win or lose" announcement. Instead, emphasize their strengths, point out areas for improvement, and suggest specific actions they could have taken to enhance their prospects.
 
Are you eager to discover how to provide a comprehensive evaluation of a proposal? Join Helene in this episode as she unveils the power of feedback as a tool for growth and collaboration. Learn how to leverage this valuable resource to your advantage.

Welcome back to another power-packed episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, your ultimate guide to mastering the art of buying consulting services like a pro.
Today, we delve into the realm of negotiation—a force of great power and potential. As Sun Tzu famously said, "Every battle is won before it's ever fought." In our previous episode, we laid the groundwork for successful negotiations, and now, we take it a step further. Get ready to harness the game-changing concepts of BATNA and ZOPA, guiding you like a seasoned captain navigating uncharted waters.
Let's uncover the treasure trove of savings opportunities within consulting proposals, making sure you secure the best agreements with your consultants. Let's begin this exciting journey to master negotiation!

Negotiation is like a thrilling dance of give-and-take. The process entails strategies for securing the best deal. If the consulting agreement is your vital weapon to ensure that you get the expected value from the project, an effective negotiation process is your key to reaching the winning agreement. Now here's the catch - you should not dive into the negotiation unprepared.
 
Before hitting the negotiation table, you need to do your homework. This episode of our podcast series, "How to Buy Consulting Like a Pro," helps you unleash your negotiation power with expert tips and examples from real-world scenarios. Learn from none other than Helene Laffitte, the consulting sourcing expert and the wonderful host of your favourite Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast series. Tune in.