The purpose of this article is to prepare and guide you through how to choose a person to professionally help you with your blog, known as a blog consultant.

Blog consulting is a relatively new field. Many blog consultants have been working with the web in other ways, some for many years. Blog consulting can mean different things to different people. Not all blog consultants will do the same kind kinds of work. Some specialize more in blog design, while others are skilled mentors who will help you learn the ropes. And some blog consultants do it all!

In order to best choose a blog consultant, you will need to understand some "resume points" about the person. You wouldn't hire someone for a job without viewing resumes, would you? Of course not. So what does a blog consultant's resume consist of?

Successful blog

It should go without saying that any blog consultant worth their salt have at least one successful blog of their own--but several are preferable. Even better if they are different types of blogs, and the blog consultant can demonstrate competency in running different types of blogs. How could you possible trust the advice of a blog consultant who doesn't even have one successful blog? That's just crazy talk!

Client list or testimonials

A successful blog consultant has a proven track record with happy, satisfied clients. The blog consultant should make this information easily available to prospective clients through his or her own blog in some fashion. Two typical ways of doing this are blog posts about successful client projects or client testimonials.

Clearly defined services and prices

A good blog consultant will be able to quickly tell you what services are available. Blog consulting services should be listed on the consultant's blog. You need to know if you're dealing with a one-trick pony or a skilled veteran who can wear many hats.

Many freelancers and consultants disagree about whether prices should be listed.The presence of prices is an indicator of the consultant's confidence and skill. You know this person isn't competing against anybody else. You know this blog consultant values your time. Why should you spend time speaking or negotiating with a blog consultant, only to discover that you cannot afford that person? This is a waste of the consultant's time, too.

But there is another reason why it is good that prices are listed. What do you assume about the blog consultant when you don't see any prices? You likely assume that price is negotiable, and that means you could end up paying much more than the consultant's other clients do... and you will never know!

Lastly, it is simply easier to plan and manage your expenses and your budget when service packages are offered for fixed amounts.

Reliability and process

Reliability is a critical factor when hiring anyone to help you. Reliability is often prized above all else, even skill or talent! You need someone you can count on. How do you know your prospective blog consultant is reliable? If you have the guts you can flat out ask the consultant directly. Of course you can also contact the blog consultant's clients and ask them.

A good blog consultant will know his stuff so well that he or she can tell you and email you a list of the steps in the process of a service package. Deliberately ask a prospective blog consultants what their process is. If they stammer or provide vague answers, steer clear!

Summary

Blog consulting is a new field, and blog consultants vary in skill, reliability, and experience. You want a successful blog consultant who:

1. Has at least one successful blog already, but preferable more than one
2. Has a client list that instills confidence
3. Shows a list of services and prices

4. Is reliable (hint: contact the blog consultant's clients to find out!)
5. Has a clearly defined process to the services