Fractional Consultants: building & maintaining relationships

As fractional talent becomes more sought after, it's important to strategise and build those all-important professional relationships. When working in an industry like eCommerce, finding the right expertise is not a simple A to B process. 

It's a competitive industry, that's undeniable. Even when you establish a solid connection with a fractional consultant in a specific field, it is a connection you want to maintain. As one project ends, another will be waiting on the horizon - that's why you will want access to this expertise and want the consultant on board.

In our latest focus on fractional talent, we look at ways to build and maintain these professional relationships. Familiarity and transparency are important to these professionals - so, it;s time to start offering this! 

Building relationships with fractional consultants

First up, here are simple ways to start a solid business relationship with the very best fractional consultants...

• Set your expectations early: The consultant needs to be aligned with your company's objectives from the start. Prevent any misunderstandings by showing you understand their expertise and what you expect them to bring with this specialist knowledge. It's a great time to establish KPIs and project milestones too, so they have a clear timeline. 
  
  
• Integrate them into your company culture: While the fractional consultant will be addressing a specific challenge or project, make them feel part of the team. Introduce the wider team, even if the consultant will not be actively working with them. It will provide a positive impression from the start.
  
  
• Provide access to resources: Show trust and transparency by ensuring fractional consultants have access to the necessary resources and information to perform their tasks effectively. This may include access to key team members, data, and tools required for the project.
  
  
• Contracts and confidentiality: All legal aspects are important, especially for a fractional consultant. Have these open conversations early in the relationship to further establish an honest and transparent relationship. Clearly outline contract terms, responsibilities, and any confidentiality requirements to protect both parties' interests.

Maintaining relationships with fractional consultants

Once you have established a good foundation, the hard work doesn't stop. Here's how to ensure fractional consultants remain on board, even when there might not be a specific project for them...

• Clear communication channels: Remember, the fractional consultant might not always be physically present in the office environment. Establishing clear and effective communication channels is paramount. Be it a Teams meeting or email communication, find out what channel works best for both parties to keep in touch regularly. 
  
  
• Regular updates: When a project is complete or a challenge has been overcome, this doesn't mean you immediately part ways with the consultant. During any downtime between projects, reach out to the fractional consultant and let them know how their hard work is paying off. Their success is your success and they'll be glad to hear how everything is going.
  
  
• Feedback - it works both ways: Providing feedback is so important in any professional relationship. Without it, the connection cannot grow and improve in the future. So, establish a feedback process where everyone can provide feedback on how the project went. The consultant can learn how they integrated into the business while you can learn how to better accommodate their expertise.
  
  
• Be flexible: Each business hurdle will require a different amount of attention. Furthermore, adjustments to the project scope, timeline or strategy can arise at any time. Should something arise after a project is completed, you can't guarantee the consultant will be ready to jump in to offer insight. So, show respect for their projects, offer a new timeline and they will be more willing to commit to help.
  

Bringing fractional consulting to the eCommerce industry

The eCommerce industry is growing, and we are in touch with consultants who have worked in this amazing industry from the beginning! Find more 'Fractional Talent' resources below...

• What is a fractional consultant? 
• 5 reasons you need to hire a fractional consultant
• Fractional consultants and eCommerce contractors - are they different?
• Fractional consulting: defining what your company needs

Want to find out more? Simply click below to learn more about our 'Fractional Talent' services.