1. Responsiveness: Did the consultant respond to your inquiry promptly, competently and with a sincere interest in pursuing the relationship?
2. Empathy: Is the consultant a good listener and appear to understand your circumstances, objectives, needs and requirements?
3. Expertise: Does the consultant have the background, training, credentials and experience to help with your specific set of issues, problems or questions?
4. Methodology: Did the consultant offer a workplan and approach that is thorough, methodical and logically leads to meeting your objectives, needs and requirements?
5. Deliverables: What will the consultant produce for you during the course of the project? Will those deliverables constitute a complete and implementable solution, or will they require additional work which potentially ties you to them for an extended period of time?
6. Cost: Are the proposed fees and expenses within reason given the time, effort and expertise involved, and/or the value of the work to your organization?
7. Project Staff: Who will actually do the work and provide the consulting assistance? Will it be the principles representing the firm or lesser experienced staff?
8. Ongoing Relationship: If needed, will the consultant be available and willing to assist with you in the future?