The two titles contractor and consultant are very confusing for people despite the need to hire the services of these two classes of people in different walks of life. Contractors and consultants seem to be persons having nearly similar skill sets. However, despite all the similarities and overlapping in roles and responsibilities, there are subtle differences between a contractor and a consultant that will be highlighted in this article.
Consultant
The word consultant brings to our mind images of freelancers having important skills and expertise that people look for to solve one or more problems in their lives. These are professionals known for their crisp advice and recommendations. When we are facing hurdles or roadblocks, whether mental or physical, we tend to ask for the opinions and remarks from these experts, to have the necessary guidance. How to move ahead when confronted with choices is a dilemma that these consultants often solve with aplomb. We are all aware of career consultants who are known to clear the smoke of doubt from the minds of young students advising them the career path that they should choose to carve a niche for themselves. Lawyers also work as consultants and relationship counselors are also consultants as they guide and help us in choosing the right path in our lives. Thus, consultants are professionals whom we consult to have their vision and direction to overcome our problems
Contractor
We hire the services of these professionals to get a job completed according to a predefined level of competence. We are aware of the knowledge and skill level of these experts and try to fit their expertise into a job that can be fulfilled in a professional manner through their skill set and knowledge. Contractor, when they are just starting out, are high on knowledge through education but low on experience. However, they gain in experience when they complete diverse jobs provided by their clients.
What is the difference between Consultant and Contractor?
• There is a very thin line dividing contractors and consultants as most contractors are consultants too.
• While consultants are professionals known for their vision and sense of direction, contractors are known to provide their clients with the right product mix.
• Consultants provide an idea or a suggestion whereas a contractor provides a concrete product.
• Contractors charge a fixed fee for the product they promise (a building or a project) while consultants charge an hourly fee for their expert advice and opinion.