What to Ask a Business Consultant Before You Open or Grow Your Storefront
So, you’re thinking about opening a storefront or leveling up your brick-and-mortar business—congratulations! Working with a knowledgeable consultant can help you avoid costly mistakes, make smarter decisions, and move forward with clarity and confidence.
But not all consultants are the same. You want a partner who understands both the creative side and the operational backbone of running a small business. Someone who listens, challenges, and equips you with a real plan—not just surface-level advice.
Here are a few smart questions to ask before hiring a business consultant:
1. What blind spots do you see in my business (or plan)?
A great consultant won’t just flatter you—they’ll help you see what you don’t see. Whether you’re just starting or already running a shop, you want someone who can quickly assess what might be holding you back or where things could go sideways.
Even in an initial conversation, they should be able to offer thoughtful observations and honest feedback. If they avoid the tough stuff, they’re not the right fit.
2. Have you helped other business owners like me? What were the results?
Look for a consultant who has experience with small business owners, brick-and-mortar launches, or retail operations—not just corporate clients. Ask them to share a similar success story, including the challenges and how they helped solve them.
The best consultants won’t just throw data at you—they’ll talk about decisions, growth, and real-life outcomes.
3. How do you communicate and collaborate with your clients?
Clarity isn’t just what you talk about—it’s how you talk about it. Ask your consultant how they work with clients day-to-day. Do they check in weekly? Use a shared planning tool? Offer voice notes, video calls, or written reports?
You want a consultant who makes it easy to stay connected and keeps you in the loop without overwhelming you.
Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, hiring a consultant is a relationship. Do they feel grounded, experienced, and genuinely interested in your business? Do they leave you feeling clearer after the first conversation—or more confused?
Ready to Move Forward With Confidence?
If you’re dreaming of opening a storefront—or want to clean up the chaos in the one you already run—join our 3-Day Clarity Challenge. You’ll get step-by-step guidance to cut through the overwhelm and walk away with a focused plan that actually works for your life and your business.
