Executive Summary: How do you pick an attorney, a banker, a certified public accountant, an insurance agent, or an engineer?
General: As a contractor, you need the following professional services on a regular basis:
- Legal
- Banking
- Accounting
- Insurance
- Engineering
Some companies may provide these services in house, but likely you will be hiring third party firms who specialize in these services.
When asked by a new business owner how to pick one of these professionals, the first thing you likely think of is their technical capability. This is without a doubt a necessity and a box which must be checked; however, it was rarely the deciding factor for me.
It’s personality.
I like the service provider to “get me”. I want them to know my business, but at the end of the day, I want someone who can have a beer with me. I mean that somewhat literally, but more so figuratively.
As an example, sometimes I like to curse. I don’t want to feel like I cannot do that around them. If you get a look of disapproval or you see discomfort in your service provider when you’re in their conference dropping a four letter word, perhaps this isn’t a good fit for you.
In business, outside of the low bid arena, relationships drive success. Make sure you enjoy your professional services provider. They’ll be there when you’re in a pickle, but more importantly it makes it a little easier to write that big check when at least you like the person.
0 Comments