IT plays a critical role in every aspect of business, from everyday IT management to critical projects, however retaining full-time employees can be costly. Hiring a knowledgeable and specialized IT consultant for specific tasks, such as training employees or maintaining specialized applications, can be more cost effective, allowing you to focus resources on your core business.

Here are some things to consider when choosing the right IT consultant:

Conduct Rigorous Interviews and Background Checks

As most IT consultants will be privy to sensitive information, it is important to interview and vet them as thoroughly as you would a regular employee.

Ask for references and follow up with them, and ask to see samples of their work, including portfolios or software applications they utilize. Make sure the consultant knows the hardware and software they will be working with, has up-to-date certifications, and has experience in your type and size of business. Someone with experience working with small businesses may not be able to handle projects for large corporations, and vice versa, and in varying industries. Also find out the consultant’s working style, such as communication skills and whether they will be available by phone or email.

Then perform a thorough background check, looking out for any poor business dealings or questionable reviews or ratings with the better business bureau.

Use Non-Disclosure Agreements

A non-disclosure agreement (NDA), also called a confidentiality agreement (CA), is a contract that establishes a confidential relationship between parties who want to protect any information and materials shared between each other, such as trade secrets and business practices. Before you even schedule an interview, you may want to ask potential consultants to sign a confidentiality agreement as you may need to share and discuss specific information to see whether they will be a good fit.

Have a Comprehensive Contract

Make sure to have a comprehensive contract in place. It should include the names of both parties, services and deliverables, compensation and payment, any outside expenses, hours and term, milestones and deadlines, and termination. It is also important to include protection for intellectual property, clearly stating ownership and rights.

When looking to fill your IT needs, the first thing you need to do is determine whether to hire an employee, which will require tax withholding, pay FICA, and unemployment taxes; or an independent contractor. Once that is determined, it is important to vet the candidates carefully to ensure you hire the IT consultant who has the required expertise, will be able to complete the project or task well and on time, and will bring value to your business.

Choose Carefully

IT consultants can provide you specific expertise, help you get projects completed on time and help your company achieve its business goals. Understanding the challenges of finding the right one is key to hiring a person or company that can add value to your business.

If your business is looking for an experienced IT consultant in the Detroit and Ann Arbor area, contact us today to learn more about our services.