SME owners can maximize the benefits of the 'do it with you' consulting approach by committing resources, building the right team, maintaining open communication, and embracing flexibility and innovation. Active involvement and strategic planning are key to fostering a culture of sustained innovation and growth.
In my previous posts (articles 1 and 2), I explored the pitfalls of the "done for you" consulting model and championed the "do it with you" approach for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
This collaborative method ensures that SMEs not only receive expert guidance but also build internal capabilities and foster a culture of innovation.
To fully leverage the benefits of this approach, SME owners must actively prepare and engage in the process. Here’s how they can do it effectively.
Commitment and Resource Allocation
One of the first steps in preparing for a "do it with you" project is to commit the necessary resources. This involves not just financial investment but also dedicating time and personnel to the project. It's crucial to ensure that key team members are available to contribute their expertise and effort. By rallying your team and ensuring they are empowered and engaged, you create an environment where everyone feels responsible for the project’s success.
Building the Right Team
Selecting the right team is vital. Look for individuals who are versatile, adaptable, and open-minded. These qualities are essential as the project will likely require flexibility and a willingness to experiment with new ideas. A team that can pivot and adapt quickly to changes will be better positioned to implement innovative solutions effectively.
Maintaining Communication and Transparency
Keeping the wider team updated on progress is another critical factor. Regular updates help maintain transparency and ensure that everyone is aligned with the project goals. Open communication with the consultant is also essential. Frequent check-ins and collaborative discussions allow for real-time adjustments and refinements, ensuring that the project stays on track and addresses any emerging challenges promptly.
Taking Ownership and Leading by Example
As an SME owner, taking ownership of the project is crucial. Your active involvement sets the tone for the rest of the team. By demonstrating commitment and enthusiasm, you can inspire and motivate your team to put their best efforts into the project. Ownership also means holding yourself and your team accountable for meeting milestones and delivering results.
Embracing Flexibility and Innovation
Projects rarely go exactly as planned, so being prepared for adjustments is key. Flexibility allows you to adapt to new information and changing circumstances, ensuring that the project remains relevant and effective. Encouraging a culture of innovation within your team means being open to new ideas and approaches. This mindset shift is essential for long-term success and growth.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
While active participation is critical, it’s equally important to avoid being too hands-off. Relinquishing control entirely to the consultant or expecting ground-level staff to drive the project without oversight can lead to misalignment and missed opportunities. Similarly, clinging to existing ways of thinking and doing things can stifle innovation and hinder progress. Delaying the project due to operational commitments can also derail momentum, so it’s vital to prioritize the project and allocate sufficient time and resources to see it through.
Conclusion
Preparing for a "do it with you" project involves strategic planning, resource commitment, and active participation. By fostering a collaborative environment and maintaining open communication, SME owners can maximize the benefits of expert guidance while building internal capabilities for sustained innovation. The success of a "do it with you" project hinges on the partnership between the SME and the consultant. When both parties are committed, engaged, and open to learning, the potential for meaningful and lasting change is immense.
By embracing these principles, SME owners can transform their businesses, achieving growth and innovation that endures long after the consultants have left. The journey of innovation is continuous, and with the right preparation and mindset, SMEs can navigate this path successfully.
Posts Related to the “Do It With You” Method:
- Why "Done for You" Consulting Fails and the Power of a "Do It With You" Approach
- Why "Do It With You" Works Better for SMEs
- How SME Owners Can Prepare for a Successful "Do It With You" Project
- How Consultants Can Prepare for a "Do It With You" Business Innovation Project
- Unlocking Innovation: How Lean Experimentation Drives Success
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- The Economist: Do McKinsey and other consultants do anything useful?