1. Spend time deciding precisely what you want consultants to do. Consultants can be hired to do a specific job, such as managing a reorganisation, carrying out research or introducing a redesign. Or they help with a process, such as team building. Or deliver training, or help mediate in a conflict. Whatever, avoid confusion and "mission drift" by insisting on utter clarity from the start.
2. Being explicit and exact about what you want will help make sure you are using consultants for the most appropriate task. That will leave your staff to do what they are good at. It will also help you check whether you really need a consultant. External help can be good. But ignoring the skills and knowledge of existing staff is a frequent mistake.
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