Guide to Hiring Human Resources Management Consultants

Identify the services you want

To maximize your investment, decide what you want an HR consultant to accomplish before hiring one.

I recommend: Get an idea of what a consultant might do for you by reviewing these menus and samples of services from M2 and HROptions. Test your HR savvy with a free quiz.

Advertise for help

Use industry job banks to view resumes and list your contract or position.

I recommend: Post an ad by category and by city at iHireHR. You don't have to be a society member to use the career centers of ASTD, the American Society for Training and Development, or SHRM, the Society for Human Resource Management.

Hire a large firm with multiple specialists

The bigger your company and the higher the stakes, the greater the odds that you'll need a major HR consulting player to help address your staffing challenges. Get recommendations from other executives or do your own investigation.

I recommend: Browse for large firm solutions at BestOfHR. Consultancy Precept offers a wide range of services and specialists. For a company with national service connections, go to Innovative Employee Solutions.

Hire a small firm for custom solutions

Small companies and independent consultants can offer flexibility in HR consulting that's especially helpful for smaller businesses.

I recommend: HResolved offers a subscription for a phone-in HR consultation service. Browse for small firms and independent consultants at All the Services. Use the Business.com directory to find specialists in recruiting, employee training or employee benefits.