We have seen in preceding articles the parameters to take into account for considering human resources solutions. We did also compare them as functions of the four solutions that include internal resources, contractors, consultants and outsourcing. Let’s contemplate the different factors that will play a role in the selection of contractors and consultants. The contractor, the advantages are: Easy and fast solution for peak workloads Flexibility in terms of working hours, termination, etc. Easiness to manage From day one, at the professional level expected (no need for ramp-up) A total budget......
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Managing human resources requires a sound understanding of the business. For every business and activity, adequately managing human resources and mastering it is a critical success factor. It demands that you take many factors into consideration to make the right choice. Apart from the business itself and more oriented on the human resource itself, this article tries to sum up some of the factors to take into consideration. Criticality and urgency: Is the position critical? Does it need to be filled urgently or do you have the time to select? What......
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As said in a preceding article, a lot of terms and concepts exist to define or specify sourcing models. (If you are interested in the definition of these concepts, read our article on some sourcing models concepts). But all these concepts can be reduced to two main underlying dimensions that are playing a major role in characterizing them. Understanding these dimensions helps you to choose the right model and comprehend its usage and implementation. As you will see they encompass the internal sourcing as well as the external sourcing of products/services. But......
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Collaborating with a consulting company is one-stop solution to simplify your professional life and have support for activities that fall outside your usual realm of expertise or you are less comfortable with. This partnership should be formalized a way that preserves your autonomy and your interests. It should be built as a true partnership, where both entities are putting resources in to achieve higher goals. We will write in a subsequent article about the characteristics such a company should present and about the criteria you should use to evaluate it. But......
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Starting out or not, consultants are facing issues. Some are more critical than others. But the way you respond to them contributes positively or negatively to your success and satisfaction. We will in this article sum up the 10 challenges that occur the most often in this profession: Finding missions: For those starting out, it is often the first fear, and is present for standalone consultants too. It decreases with the number of missions and increasing reputation. But one cannot monitor and have access to all of the existing market.......
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Many companies use consulting companies’ services. Like any other business agreement, both the consultant and the client sign a contract that defines the details of the agreement. While there are several elements to a contract, a few key elements of a consulting contract are essential to ensure both the client and the consultant benefit from the business relationship. Scope of work: The description generally answers several questions, such as what work the consultant will perform, what the company wants and what problem needs to be solved. This section also details the......
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Firms regularly must choose between internal and external resources to obtain new capabilities, or increase punctually capacity or expertise. It is often subject of discussion, gains and budget calculation. How do you decide between traditional employees and consultants or contractors? You will find below a list of advantages and constraints that can help you to move forward. Take a look also at The 4 different human resources solutions to address internal needs. Salary costs: Consultants usually cost more than employees, but there are several benefits to explain this difference, such......
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The make-or-buy exercise is a fundamental and essential technique for sourcing and procurement strategic decisions. It should be done rationally and with objectivity, and be supported by facts and figures. Keep also the two major underlying principles and the seven sourcing business models in mind. The exercise is not only about deciding to make or to buy. It is further to decide among or compare the different models and solutions of sourcing. The process is quite straightforward and simple, but its application requires some conditions and points of consideration. ......
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A lot of people are attracted by the job of a consultant. Let’s first define it. Definition of consultancy: Giving professional advices or services to a company for a fee. Consultants should have an expertise to offer and be experienced. It can be at an operational (contractor type), tactical or strategic level, in any area of business. There are many reasons people are becoming or willing to become consultants. We decided to select and list here the 12 most reported reasons why people are becoming consultants. Revenue: Increased revenues......
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Installing oneself as consultant is easy. Being successful requires you to master some very different competencies and abilities. Let’s list and discuss what consultants say are the 10 most frequently occurring things standing in the way of success: Not enough expertise: Starting with limited or outdated expertise will drastically limit the missions you can accept and decrease the satisfaction of your customer. It will also negatively impact your image. This expertise can be expanded upon through education or additional missions, and it must be maintained and regularly updated. Image......
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