 | There
is probably no faster growing segment of today's business landscape than
that of the independent consultant. Sure, there have always been the large,
national and international consulting firms, such as McKinsey & Co.,
Booz Allen, and others - fine firms, to be sure - but now businesses of all
types and sizes are turning to consultants of all types and sizes to guide
them through the increasing complex issues facing all of us. |
| Of
course the role of consultants has grown exponentially over the past decade,
as corporations sought to downsize and streamline their operations. Not only
has this resulted in a large number of highly qualified individuals suddenly
finding themselves being pushed out of their corporate positions, but after
the initial shock has worn off many of these individuals find that they
prefer the independence of "running their own show" - either as an
individual or by joining forces with others. |
| Conversely,
now that many corporations are running with much leaner executive staffing
levels, the availability of outside consultants allows for the creation of
"virtual departments" to address specific needs or assignments,
without having to take on permanent staff with all of the added payroll and
benefit costs this entails. Once the assignment is complete, the contract
with the consulting firm is terminated, and everyone moves on. |
| Consulting
disciplines can include:
Adjusters
Advertising
Agencies
Billing/Business
Management
Business
Strategy
Crisis
Management
Employee
Assistance
Employment/Placement
Environmental
Executive
Search
Expert Witness
Human
Resources
Insurance
Consultants
Legal,
including Jury Selection
Management
Marketing
Mediation
Non-profit
Fundraising
Outplacement
Political
Public
Relations
Relocation
Risk
Management
Software
Technology,
including Systems Integration
Training
|
| The
list is virtually limitless. Anyone who has particular expertise and
experience in a given field can consult - provided, of course, that someone
else is looking for that expertise. |
| Naturally,
just like any other professional, a consultant or consulting firm can be
held liable for the quality of their work. Therefore, it is very important
that consultants protect themselves and their firm from claims arising from
their alleged failure to provide the agreed-upon services. |
| Remember,
of course, that even if the claim being made is ultimately determined to be
groundless, a properly designed and underwritten professional liability
insurance policy will provide you and your firm with a defense. Ironically,
the cost of defending a claim is very often far greater than the actual
damages. |
| I
have had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of types and sizes
consultants and consulting firms. As truly "independent" insurance
agents and brokers, my firm enjoys broad access to any equally wide variety
of insurance carriers, programs and underwriters. |
| Why
don't you give me a call at, 877-320-4061. I will be happy to discuss your
particular needs and potential exposures. I can also be reached via e-mail
at, insurance@professional-liability.com. |
| I look
forward to speaking with you soon. |
