How to Choose the Right Consultant for Your Small Business

Is this a right person? How do I know that.

Running a small business can feel like juggling with one hand tied behind your back. You’re managing sales, customers, websites, maybe even trade shows—and on top of that, you’re supposed to figure out marketing, shipping, and tech? That’s where a consultant comes in. But not every consultant is the right fit, and hiring the wrong one can cost you time, money, and energy you don’t have to waste. So, how do you find the right partner-in-the-grind to help your business grow?

1. Look for Someone Who Understands Small Business Life

Big corporate consultants might have shiny PowerPoints, but do they know what it’s like to pack orders at midnight or set up at a weekend market? The right consultant should understand the real challenges of running a small business—not just talk strategy, but roll up their sleeves and get into the day-to-day with you.

2. Make Sure They’re Practical, Not Just Pretty Words

Some consultants talk big but don’t deliver. Ask yourself: will they help you do the work—like setting up your website correctly, fixing payment issues, or creating a social media plan you can actually use—or just hand you a generic checklist? The best ones give advice and stand next to you while you implement it.

3. Check if They’re Tech-Savvy (But Also Human-Savvy)

AI tools, websites, email marketing—yes, tech matters. But tools only work if someone shows you how to use them in a way that fits your style. A good consultant balances being tech-savvy with being people-savvy, making sure you feel confident, not overwhelmed.

4. Ask About Their Track Record

Numbers don’t lie. Did they help another boutique grow sales online? Did a contractor get more leads after their campaign? Look for someone who has real examples (and hopefully client testimonials) that sound like your situation.

5. Most Important: Do You Feel Supported?

At the end of the day, you need someone who has your back. Running a business can be lonely, and the right consultant should feel like your partner and cheer captain—encouraging you when you’re tired, helping you problem-solve, and celebrating your wins right alongside you.

Choosing a consultant isn’t just about hiring “help.” It’s about finding someone who gets you, your business, and your vision. The right fit will push you when you need it, pull you back when things get overwhelming, and remind you that you don’t have to do this alone.