In Part 1, we talked about how good Yardi consultants can be valuable business partners – even if bad ones make you want to run away screaming. 

But how can you tell a good consultant from a bad one? 

If you aren’t careful, you can find yourself halfway through a Yardi implementation, only to find your new system is a mess, and you’re going in circles trying to get your consultants to fix it. That’s why, when you’re researching consultants, you’ve got to check client references and reviews. Research what qualities they have, and if they can back up what they’re saying. 

When you’re conducting this research, you’ll want to verify each of the following:

 

  • Experience and Expertise. You’ll want to know about their track record of successful projects and their understanding of the subject matter. At bare minimum, any Yardi consultant you work with should be listed in the Yardi directory. To make sure they’re A-players, you’ll also need to ask for client references in the specific Yardi verticals you need. Remember, someone can be a rockstar in Commercial, but that doesn’t mean they’re able to provide the same level of expertise in Affordable. 
  • Communication and Listening Skills. You need a partner that listens and understands your requirements so that the details can be clearly outlined in the contract. A partner that will use their understanding to make clear recommendations on how to meet your goals, and then do regular check-ins to ensure that things are on track.
  • Accountability. Even the very best industry experts can mess up. The difference between a good consultant and a bad one is the good ones will own up to a mistake and make sure it gets fixed. They’ll also hold themselves accountable to the agreed upon project scope. 
  • Integrity and Ethics.  Transparency about processes, fees, and potential conflicts of interest are a must. A good consultant will prioritize the best interests of their clients and adhere to professional ethics in all interactions. They also won’t try to pull any bait and switches. 
  • Problem-Solving Abilities. You need people who can identify and solve complex problems. Consultants are often hired to approach challenges with creativity and critical thinking, offering innovative solutions that align with your objectives.
  • Adaptability and Flexibility. The business landscape is constantly evolving, and you’ll need consultants who can adapt to change.They should be open-minded, flexible, and willing to adjust their approach based on your feedback and the evolving needs of your organization. 
  • Passion and Commitment. The best consultants are passionate about their work and are dedicated to achieving results. They genuinely care about your success, and delivering value. 

As mentioned above, to check if the consultant you’re considering has the above traits, you’ll likely have to get on the phone with some of their current clients. If there are website or online reviews, you may also be able to get some answers from there.

Once you’ve done your homework, and selected the right consultant, both you and the consultant will need to put some work into building – and maintaining – your business partnership. 

Interested in partnering with Lynx? Reach out to ask why our Tier 1 clients come to us to address their Yardi needs.

 

Business Partnerships Part 1: Good, bad, or ugly?

Business Partnerships Part 3: Top 5 Pillars to Good Partnerships