Ethics among consultants....

[Ronda Hughes]

Hi! Over the past several years I have had the opportunity to meet and be a part of various different sales training groups and seminars. Among these, Ive had the priviledge of meeting some really great people some of whom have changed my life. However, Ive also run into some shall we say "very unethical" consultants, that would say things such as "I've never lost a sale because a person dident have a down payment" or, "I would loan them the money and say that Uncle Joe gave it to them". My questions, if a business person is seeking a business consultant, what should he or she look for? What questions should be ask? And what licenses are required? How does one check out a potential consultant? I know that anyone, can have a home based business these days and call themselves "Smith and associates" (figurative example). How can someone check their qualifications and background? Any information from anyone would be greatly appreciated.

[Chrissy]

One of the oldest ways is by calling the Better Business Bureau and seeing if there are any complaints on file against them. In the manufactured housing industry, federal law also mandates a consumer hotline for complaints be established in every state. So, the state association should keep records of complaints they received from consumers and the resolutions. It is also a good idea to ask for references of previous clients. Ask those clients if the consultant was ever guilty of any unethical conduct, or fraudulent practices during their business dealings with them. Above all, be cautious! Hindsight is sometimes very expensive!