The next step is to choose the best MRA consultant to help with the application and on-site work after making the brave decision to apply for the Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) grant. Your application will be significantly affected by the consultant you select. It is no surprise that you are unwilling to take the chance of making a mistake with this decision.
Do not be alarmed; you can always overcome this without difficulty as long as you have a thorough understanding of the most important factors to consider while conducting your research. Consider the following factors and pose the following questions:
Is the MRA consultant required to provide ongoing support, implement a new system, or provide advice? Perhaps everything is there. Understanding the role the consultant will perform in your organization is important. A strong working relationship with the consultant is essential if this is an ongoing role, as they will essentially become an integral member of your team. This may not be so important if it is a brief, one-time interaction.
Industry experience is important, there is no denying this. What is the consultant’s level of knowledge and comprehension regarding your industry? Have they previously worked in or with your industry? What is their technical experience in their indicated area of expertise? What consulting experience does the MRA consultant possess and what accomplishments have they accomplished? Do they truly wish to be the initial client of an individual who has recently been laid off and has elected to pursue a career as a consultant?
Your MRA consultant will be required to act with integrity and confidence in numerous engagements. Be mindful that a prospective MRA consultant’s CV may indicate a lack of loyalty and integrity if they have held relatively brief positions.
What were they able to do with the information they had access to in their previous positions? Is there any indication that they may have utilized confidential information to assist them in their new positions? Do you wish for your information to serve as the foundation for your competitor’s business or systems?
Why not embark on this expedition now that you have gained an understanding of some of the most important factors to consider when hiring an MRA consultant the next time?
