Fractional Consulting: defining what your company needs

As the ways companies operate change, we are seeing more attention on the fractional consulting model. In order to drive growth, streamline operations, or tackle unique challenges, the needs of each business will differ. 

As a result, bringing in a fractional consultant isn't quite like your usual eCommerce recruitment process. They are seasoned professionals who bring targeted skills and insights without the need for a full-time commitment. It means you will really need to know what you require from them before committing. 

In our latest 'Fractional Talent' blog, we will walk through the planning stages so that you can paint a clear picture of what your company needs in a fractional advisor. 

What are the company objectives?

You have to be honest and strategic right from the word go. From outlining the challenges you will overcome to understanding which goals are not looking achievable, you can then create a roadmap for your potential consultant. 

Knowing where your hurdles are allows you to identify which skills and expertise will be most appropriate. For example, do you want to take your eCommerce website to a new market? You can immediately narrow the search down to a consultant who has worked in that specific territory. This internal assessment should involve all stakeholders and senior members of the team so that the key goals of the fractional consultant are agreed upon.

Evaluating experience and expertise

First and foremost, industry relevance is essential. Of course, fractional advisors will have experience in many areas. However, someone with a proven history is the eCommerce space will serve you best. A great place to start is to research past projects. What challenges have they tackled, and what outcomes have they achieved?

At this step, it's your chance to evaluate the track record of the potential consultant. Testimonials, references and a solid portfolio will all help you determine the right choice. From tech proficiency to their top skills, you can find the right fit for your overall goals.

An alignment of working styles

When engaging a fractional consultant, understanding their approach to problem-solving and project management is pivotal. Fractional consultants are not one-size-fits-all. Each one brings a unique approach shaped by their experience and expertise.

When discussing their unique approach, it's important to know if this will align well with the company. Of course, they are there to solve a specific problem and know how to do this. However, company culture must be still taken into account. Collaboration is key, even if they are not always present in the office. Someone who can motivate the team and win their support will be vital when hiring a fractional consultant.

Your budget - what is realistic for your business? 

With great industry experience comes the privilege of knowing your worth - and fractional consultants know this. So, this calls for total transparency when you discuss the consultant's fees and expenses. They will want to know how the budget will be managed while sharing potential additional costs with you.

Some consultants may offer flexibility in their fee structure or be open to adjusting terms based on the scope of work. However, this all needs to be ironed out before any contract is signed to avoid disagreements further down the line. 

Flexibility - can they dedicate the time you need?

Each business hurdle will require a different amount of attention. You might need a fractional consultant who checks in once a week or one who is present in the workplace multiple days a week. This needs to be communicated at the start, once the project has been outlined. 

The fractional consultant will likely outline their suggestion of the time they will need. However, it must fit your timeline too. Furthermore, projects can change quickly. The time you agreed upon could shift in an instant. So, clarifying if they can provide added flexibility is important in determining the right fractional consultant for you.  

Bringing fractional consulting to the eCommerce industry

Cranberry Panda recognises the value of the fractional employment model. The eCommerce industry is ever growing and we are in touch with consultants who have worked in this amazing industry from the very 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?

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