Determine what your organization wants to accomplish and the expertise and set of skills you are seeking in a consultant.Identify prospective consultants by networking with colleagues, contacting similar organizations, and consulting professional sources, such as The Association of Fund Raising Professionals or The Chronicle of Philanthropy.Request informational packets and consulting fee structures. Conduct an informational interview with prospective firms in order to narrow the field.Prepare a request for proposals (RFP) and send to consultants you have identified. Request at least three references from the consultant's clients.Review proposals. Proposals should clearly present a proposed scope of work, the activities to be conducted, a timetable, expected deliverables, fees and expenses. (Most consultants work on a flat fee basis for prescribed scope of work.)Interview several candidates and check references.In addition to skills and experience, chemistry is an important factor in a successful consulting relationship. Your close working relationship with your consultant requires confidence and trust. Seek an individual who related well to staff, volunteers and Board members.Notify all candidates of your decision in a timely manner. Do not hesitate to provide helpful feedback to consultants who were not selected, if appropriate.Typically consultants prepare a contract for services. Review it carefully. The agreement should include the following: description of deliverables including expected results, activities to be conducted, timeline, designated consultant for your project, professional fees and a budget for additional direct expenses, payment schedule and termination provisions.Once the consultant is hired, schedule meetings at regular intervals to review progress and to monitor deliverables.
