The Phases You Have To Face (when working with effective Consultants)

Changes go through phases. If you’re in a position where you need to implement some changes to take your business to a new level, you have to accept the fact that it will not happen overnight.

Let’s say a boutique shop haven’t been able to meet their sales quota, naturally, they would want to take a closer look and see what changes need be made. The problem with most business owners is that they are in denial that they need help. Or even when they get the help they need, they worry about what it would cost them.

If you want the best results, you will have to hire the best consultant or even the second or third best. You want someone who has a track record of turning businesses around. When you find the right expert, then you want to make sure that your visions match. A good consultant is one with a plan or a formula for success as it pertains to your business. A great consultant is one with a plan that has been proven to work.

After finding the right consultant, you then have to realize that it’s a process to implement the changes that need to be made. If you’re sales are down, phase 1 might mean that you have to take a look at your assortment. Phase 2 might be improving your signage. Phase 3 improving your online presence. Phase 4 is re-training your employees. Phase 5 will be establishing a promotional calendar… and the list goes on.

The moral of the story is, if you’re business is not where you want it to be, then you will have to accept the fact that it will take time and resources to implement necessary changes to accomplish favorable results. Don’t assume that a consultant can come in and give you results in a short period of time. Weigh in the fact that it possibly took a year or two of consistent declining sales to get you to a desperate state. At that point, fixing a problem that has grown to the worst state will take a considerable time to correct.

Anticipate phases of changes and face your truth. A great business owner/leader are those who remain aware of how each move affects their business. Be wise and cognizant.