From time to time every company needs expertise they don’t have in-house. Those are your advisors. Here’s a list of some you might consider.
Consultants
Consultants bring in expertise you don’t have. They may do the work or advise and train your people how to do the work. They can specialize in everything from software to marketing to very technical aspects of your machines or processes.
Coaches
Coaches help people maximize the expertise they already have. Actors and athletes as well as business leaders often have a coach to keep them performing at their best.
IT Support
You may need an IT consultant for special projects but the company should have a relationship with a company that’s familiar with their network and equipment setup for routine maintenance and onboarding new employees.
Legal Advice
Lawyers specialize like doctors. The best lawyers tell you which risks you’re exposed to and how to minimize them, then let you decide which risks you’re willing to accept.
HR Consultants
Companies without an in-house HR professional need a relationship with an HR consultant or HR attorney who knows the rules and regs in your jurisdiction. Payroll companies are trying to more into the HR space. What they provide may be adequate or may be one-size-fits-all over kill.
Bankers
It’s true the best time to find a banker is when you don’t need one. Communicate wins as well as problems proactively.
Advisory Board & CEO Peer Groups
These can be useful for insight and emotional support.
CFO & Tax Planning
The person who “does your taxes” should also do some tax planning in time for you to minimize your taxes. They should be familiar with your company and personal situations. As for a CFO, they produce different outputs from a bookkeeper or accountant. If you need them full time or part time (fractionally) depends on your scale and your goals.
Insurance Broker
A good insurance broker will shop around for the best deals. A great one will tell you what you don’t need.
