Finding the Right Professional to Solve Your Problem

People are problem creators.

Let me suggest that this maxim is just background noise at times.  Of course people are the source of our greatest challenges but it is just part of our everyday experience…no big deal.  We fix things that are broken, we move on and don’t’ think too much about it.  But sometimes we realize that the seemingly routine problem is not so routine.  We realize the resolution to our problem is beyond our capabilities and a solution requires the assistance of someone else.

People are problem solvers.

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If people are the source of our greatest challenges then they are also the source of our greatest solutions. But who are the people who get you out of a jam?  Given the infinite combinations of variables that make problems what they are, who can possibly know how to make sense of your unique and complex problem?

Who are these people?

When you realize you need to bring in outside help, chances are you know generally what type of help you need.  You may not, however, know specifically who you need.   Add in concerns about the cost and the fear of selecting the wrong person, you are setting yourself up for a nervous breakdown.  What many decision makers do is to seek a referral from someone they know and trust.  But what about the situation where this is not an option?

Where are these people?

Buyers who are seeking professional services are served well by looking at firms that have depth.  Depth translates into options and options make for a better buying experience.  Firms that are able to offer this depth of experience and skill recognize the inherent complexity of the problems for which they are equipped to solve.  This understanding by the firm should give the buyer confidence that they will find qualified options for their situation.

You can find the right people.

In the investigation and security arena, we have encountered many clients who are unable to pinpoint exactly the type of help they are seeking.  This is not uncommon as it is not everyday you need an investigator and we recognize this ambiguity experienced by our clients.  Savvy buyers, however, do know they need the unique type of help we offer.  And by assembling a deeply experienced and diverse staff, we are able to offer many options.  These options lead to solutions for a wide variety of problems and ultimately a better buying experience.  

Here are some things to consider when you are in tough spot and are considering professional services as an option:

1. Be humble enough to know that you don’t know it all.  Seeking out help is not a sign of weakness but rather a sign of intelligent decision making.
2. When you recognize you need outside help, commit yourself to seeking the best help and budget time to see the selection process through (make a plan). 
3. Seek references if you are able but also do your own research.
4. Look for firms that offer depth and breadth of experience.  
5. Take time to interview your candidates – make sure they understand your problem and can offer a framework for their solution.
6. Once you find talented and trustworthy professionals, you want to keep them around so select someone with whom you can maintain a long term relationship.