Nobody is an expert at everything, and this is doubly true when it comes to business. During the life of every company it will be necessary to use some outside assistance. This help often comes in the form of a consultant.
Whether you are planning to hire a consultant or whether you do consulting for another party, you’ll need to be able to draft an agreement as the basis of the relationship. Your business is the main consideration, and to get the most out of the money you spend on consultants, you must ensure your needs are clearly defined. Here is what you need to know:
Nobody is an expert at everything, and this is doubly true when it comes to business. During the life of every company it will be necessary to use some outside assistance. This help often comes in the form of a consultant.
Whether you are planning to hire a consultant or whether you do consulting for another party, you’ll need to be able to draft an agreement as the basis of the relationship. Your business is the main consideration, and to get the most out of the money you spend on consultants, you must ensure your needs are clearly defined. Here is what you need to know:
WHAT IS A CONSULTANT AND WHAT DO THEY DO?
Consultants are advisers for hire. No matter what area you need help in, you can find a consultant who is an expert in that field . They are there to give ideas for improving how you do business. Some are individual business people, while others work for large companies. No matter which you use, you will need to have a proper agreement before you begin.
Regardless of what type of help you need there will be a consultant with the required skills. Using a well drafted agreement will allow both parties involved to clearly understand the nature of the relationship
WHAT DO I NEED TO PUT INTO THE AGREEMENT?
Some consulting jobs are brief, while others take a length time. With any project, both the consultant and the company that hires them should be as precise as possible when agreeing to terms. Before entering an agreement you should decide the payment, the time involved, the subject matter of the information sought, and a myriad of other issues.
IS A CONSULTANT THE SAME AS AN EMPLOYEE?
Usually not. Most Consulting Agreements specify the consultant is working as an independent contractor. Of course, this can change depending on the terms in the document. Some contractors can serve as temporary employees, agents or almost anything else. No matter what, you’ll want to state specifically the nature of the relationship.
WHAT ABOUT SENSITIVE INFORMATION?
As a consultant usually works closely with you and your company, they will commonly learn information that you want to remain confidential. Your agreement will need to state the consultant agrees to not disclose any sensitive or proprietary information.
WHAT IF THE CONSULTANT DOESN’T WORK OUT?
Since they are usually independent contractors, some people are often reluctant to hire a consultant because they believe they will have to pay them even if the contractor doesn’t do a good job. Whenever an employer finds the consultant is not meeting expectations, the Business Consulting Agreement must allow for closure . Normally, some compensation is give for early closure, but again, it is up to you to ensure the agreement contains the correct provision.
No matter what position you are in, be it the business owner in need of a consultant or the consultant offered a position, a properly formed agreement must be the foundation of the project. An agreement that is easy for all parties to use and understand is essential. No matter if the project lasts a few hours or a few months, you owe it your business to find the correct document for your needs.
Consulting Services Contract Template Download Available
