Smart Consulting Sourcing

Hey there, podcast listeners! Welcome to another episode where we're diving deep into the evolutionary journey of the consulting industry. You might be wondering, why bother with the history of consulting? Well, in a world where consultants seem to be around every corner, influencing businesses left and right, knowing where this all began not only gives us a deeper appreciation of its role but also offers insights into how it might evolve in the future. So, join Helene on this journey as she explores how the consulting industry has been like a chameleon, adapting to the needs of businesses as they shimmy through the decades. These insights, like a compass, will guide you to understand where the industry might be headed and what it'll look like in the coming decades. Tune in, and let's embark on this historical joyride together!

In the previous episode, we delved into the intricacies of four essential business capabilities: Strategy, Operations, Finance & Risk, and Sales & Marketing.
These pillars are fundamental in steering organizations toward success. In today's episode, we explored the key pillars of modern business: Human Capital, Tech, and R&D. Picture a workplace not just hiring but nurturing talent to create a destination! Tech is more than just an online presence; it's a dynamic playground. R&D? It's not just labs; it's the heart of innovation.
Discover versatile tools like Communication and ESG – the Swiss Army knives for businesses. A must-listen for those curious about how consulting powers success! Learn how consulting firms align with these competencies, creating harmony and guiding companies through the financial maze. Planning consulting services? This episode is your insightful guide to navigate the business world.

In this episode, Helene has embarked on a journey through the intricate world of consulting capabilities. From the strategic North Star to the heart of business operations, and from finance & risk as the guardians of integrity to sales and marketing as the company's rockstar, she has explored how consulting brings the wind to your business sails.
If seven high-level competencies are paramount for any thriving organization, consulting firms mirror these business functions of their client organizations through their capabilities. It's an attempt to classify consulting offerings in the same manner one might organize their bookshelf – by theme, relevance, and genre. Except here, it's about aligning services with organizational needs.
Remember, in the modern business symphony, every consulting capability plays its unique tune, creating a harmonious ensemble that helps companies navigate the complex financial labyrinth and emerge victorious. Tune in for great insights.
 

In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of consulting and asking the age-old question, "What is consulting?" "What really defines it?" In a nutshell, consulting is like a blend of expert advice, strategic planning, and meticulous execution – all in the name of supercharging an organization's success.
As the world of consulting keeps on evolving, so does the way we go about getting consulting services. It's not just about pinching pennies anymore; it's about looking at the bigger, more impactful picture. So, whether you're gearing up for a consulting project or knee-deep in one, you'll want to hear what Helene has to say in this episode. We're breaking down what consulting is all about, exploring the different aspects of consulting projects, looking at the types of assignments, and more.
In a nutshell, we're dissecting the anatomy of a management consulting project, so you'll know exactly what to expect throughout the journey. Whether you're just starting or already in the thick of things, this episode will be your trusty guide. Don't miss out – let's get to the heart of your consulting project!

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.