Companies are posting job ads more than ever, and the pace of recruitment is incredibly high. One challenge we increasingly see in today’s job market is that demand outweighs supply — it’s definitely a candidate’s market right now. In fields like IT and development, the lack of qualified professionals has long been a reality, but this challenge is now spreading to areas such as finance, marketing, HR, and administration. As companies, we need to rethink how we build our teams — permanent hires are not the only way forward.
We often get the question: “Why bring in a consultant when you can recruit?” In many cases, the two options are not directly comparable. A recruitment is meant to be a long-term and hopefully permanent solution, while bringing in a consultant for a limited period can solve temporary challenges and needs — offering a more flexible and, above all, faster solution. Regardless of the type of competence your company is looking for (and why), the first step should always be to assess your specific needs. Only then can we recommend the approach that suits you best.
When Hiring a Consultant Adds Value
Parental Leave or Long-Term Absences
To maintain momentum during temporary absences caused by parental leave or illness, a time-limited consulting solution can be a great alternative. A consultant with relevant experience can quickly step in, take over ongoing tasks, and deliver results with minimal onboarding — significantly faster than hiring a permanent employee.
When You Need Niche Skills
Are you facing a transformation — perhaps digitalizing your finance department or building an internal Talent Acquisition team? When specialized skills are required, a consultant with hands-on experience in exactly that area can be the perfect solution.
For Time-Limited Projects
Many companies work project-based, with clear deadlines. If your current staff is fully occupied, a consultant can step in to ensure the project is completed on time. They also bring fresh insights and an outside perspective, often improving the final outcome beyond initial expectations.
During Intense Work Periods
Some periods are busier than others — whether due to financial closings, business plans, or seasonal peaks. When the workload becomes too heavy, a consultant can relieve pressure from your team, allowing employees to regain focus and motivation. Without that support, burnout and reduced productivity can become serious risks that impact both short- and long-term performance.
When Recruitment Takes Time or You’re Waiting for a New Hire
If you’re planning a permanent hire but the recruitment process is taking longer than expected, bringing in a consultant can help you stay on track. Traditional recruitment can take up to six months, considering process time and notice periods — sometimes even longer. A consultant bridges the gap, keeping operations running smoothly until the new employee starts.
In Summary
Whatever the reason for filling a temporary gap in your organization, there are many solutions to choose from. In some cases, there’s time to go through a traditional recruitment process — independently or with the help of an external agency. But when time is short and the need is urgent, a time-limited consulting solution offers a fast and effective way to get the help you need.
The benefits of hiring a consultant are many. If you need advice on conducting an internal needs assessment, we are here to help — together, we’ll ensure you bring in the right expertise for your organization.
