Smart Consulting Sourcing

The RFP (Request for Proposal) is crucial in finding the right consultant and achieving your objectives. Unfortunately, many businesses don't place enough importance on this aspect or take the time to improve their RFP-writing process.  
However, a well-crafted RFP can make the difference between the success and failure of a consulting project. To buy better, you need first to understand the nuances of RFP writing, and hence we launched this podcast series, "How to buy consulting services like a pro." In this episode, Helene explains how a successful RFP depends on being specific about scope, deliverables, timing, and budget as the core components of your RFP.
She also discusses the significance of clearly stating the problem statement and project objectives, striking a balance between specificity and openness, setting the project's direction and communicating expected deliverables without being too prescriptive. Don't miss it.

Context is like the key to a locked door; it's what unlocks the understanding of any given situation. Whether you're briefing your junior team or sending a proposal to a client, context is the missing piece of the puzzle that can make or break your success. Crafting that perfect RFP for consulting is no different, and as the client, it's up to you to set the tone and provide the context for a successful project.
But let's face it, setting the context for an RFP can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling like a lost sailor without a compass. Fear not, and we understand your dilemma, so we've got you covered with this episode. Helene breaks down the process of setting the context accurately by adding the correct elements in perfect proportion, like a chef adding just the right amount of seasoning to a dish to make it mouth-watering. So, tune in and don't miss out on this informative episode.

So, you're thinking about buying consulting services. You must already know it but let me reiterate -- it's a journey that can be longer and more complicated than the plot of an M. Night Shyamalan movie. But don't worry; we've got your back with this podcast series that, we hope, will make you a pro at it!
Before diving into the consulting pool, you must learn how to craft the perfect RFP (Request for Proposal). And in case you missed it, we've already covered a lot of ground in previous episodes - like when you need an RFP and what you should include.
But in this episode, we're tackling a crucial topic - how to set your company's background in the RFP. It's like painting a picture of your company for consulting firms to see without giving away too much confidential information. It's like a dance between being open and being secretive. And trust me, it's not a cha-cha; it's more like a tango.
Luckily, your favorite host Helene is a pro at this stuff and will teach you how to do it right. So, tune in to master the art of writing perfect RFPs!
 

Over the past episodes of our new podcast series, "How to buy consulting like a Pro," we have explained why crafting a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the following consulting project is crucial for your business. If you put in the time and effort to create a thoughtful RFP, you'll be more likely to attract the right-fit consultants who can deliver precisely what you need. Plus, a well-written RFP can help ensure that the project stays on track, meets your goals, and stays within budget.
if you're in charge of creating an RFP for your business, this podcast will give you some practical tips and advice for making it the best it can be. And if you're a consultant who wants to respond to RFPs, reading this article will help you understand what clients are looking for and how to make your proposal stand out.
Think of it like this: if you're going to a business meeting, you want to make sure you're dressed to impress, right?  Crafting a great RFP is like dressing up your project in its best suit and tie. And tuning into this podcast episode is like getting expert advice on ensuring that suit fits perfectly and looks amazing.

When crafting that perfect RFP, you can think of it like building a house- you need a solid foundation before you can start putting up the walls and roof, right? That is why this episode covers some fundamental elements of a successful RFP, leaving the nitty-gritty technical stuff.
The RFP process starts with assembling the perfect team and delegating tasks and responsibilities. Almost like a game of soccer- you need everyone to play their position to win the game.
And finally, the perfect RFP is like baking a cake- you need the right ingredients in the right amount. Similarly, your RFP needs to be clear, realistic, simple and formalized without unnecessary details.
So, there you have it. Building a successful RFP is like building a house, playing soccer, and baking a cake all rolled into one. It's all about having the right team, delegating tasks effectively, and keeping it simple yet effective.
So, that was just a sneak peek of today's episode. But if you want the entire enchilada, listen to Helene elaborate on all these points. Her insights will surely give you a head start in nailing your RFP process, and that's what you want, right? A rock-solid RFP that will help you grab hold of the best consultants for your project. So, don't miss out!
 

One of our friends recently made a hilarious comparison between a blind consultant hunting and going to a restaurant and asking the chef to whip up a dish without telling them what you want. It might turn out delicious, but it's not exactly what you had in mind. The same goes for consulting.
An RFP is crafted to spare you the misery of embarking on a pointless crusade. Hence, if an RFP is an indispensable component of a consulting project, why even ask, "Do I always need consulting?" Well, while an RFP is an essential tool for consulting projects, it may not always be the first step.
The key is to identify the project scope, budget, and expertise required, and evaluate the approaches of potential consulting firms before deciding when to initiate the sourcing process with an RFP.
This podcast is your go-to guide for streamlining your search for the perfect consultant. Trust us, don't miss out!  

Never underestimate the power of a well-crafted RFP for consulting simply because a foolproof RFP could be your ticket to success for any consulting project.  If you're looking to bring in external expertise to help your organization tackle a new project or problem, taking the time to craft a comprehensive RFP can make all the difference.
Creating a clear and comprehensive RFP may be a daunting task, but it always pays off in spades by attracting the right consultants, clarifying your needs, and ultimately optimizing ROI from your consulting spend.
In this episode of our new podcast series, "How to buy consulting services like a pro," your favorite host Helene walks you through the benefits of writing an RFP for consulting, shares tips for crafting an effective one, and provides examples of successful RFPs. This guide will give you the tools you need to make the most of your consulting projects. So, get ready, grab a pen and paper, and tune in.

Have you ever wondered what strictly consultants bring to the table and how they can help your business achieve more success? If so, then this podcast is for you!
In the end, consulting is all about creating value. But measuring the value created from consulting is like examining the worth of a good joke. Is it the number of laughs it generates, the money it makes, or the satisfaction it brings to the audience?
It's hard to say, but you know it when you see it. And with the right consultant, you'll know it when you see the value they create for your business.
In this second episode of the series "How to buy consulting services like a pro," Helene delves deeper into what consultants bring to the table. From technical expertise to insights into organizational culture and politics, consultants can provide valuable data, benchmarks, methodologies, tools, and processes.

In this episode, Helene, your favorite host, takes a stab at this question – when to use consulting services from the perspective of end users: strategy leaders, operations leaders, and marketing leaders. She also looks at what procurement should know about it and how it can help address this need.
After all, consulting services are not commodities. If you’re buying consulting services, look for impact in return. Leaders need to focus on implementing successful consulting projects to ensure the best results. So, if you're ready to unlock the full potential of consulting services for your business, tune in and pick up some valuable insights for your next project.

Believe it or not, some people don't think reducing their consulting spend is worthwhile. They already added the cost to their OPEX and say it's just a drop in the ocean - but what about the maximum impact that could be achieved?
We at Consulting Quest want businesses to truly understand the value of optimizing ROI from their projects - and through our 15-episode "6-Levers Series", we show you how. From why optimize, how to optimize, where you may go wrong and what are the benefits of optimization - we cover it all!
So this is our final episode of the series - a recap to everything you need to know about maximizing your consulting ROI. Get ready for some real gems of knowledge! And remember: Don't wait around - get optimizing now! We may be passionate about consulting ROI and helping anyone who needs it. So if, while on your journey, you feel a little lost, don't worry! Just give us a shout out, and we'll be happy to have a chat. Happy optimizing!!