What's the difference, really? Since accepting a position at TVCC's Small Business Development Center, this is a question I've had to ask, and answer more than once.
A consultant is a professional that provides advice or services within a specific field. It is generally a temporary assignment, providing service or expertise the contracting company does not have internally.
An advisor guides or mentors, rather than providing a service directly.
Both have value depending on the situation. Retaining an independent CPA's services on an as-needed consulting basis makes sense financially for many small businesses. A sole proprietor with very simple finances may have an advisor show them how to handle their accounting, taking some of that expense out of the equation. A larger company might benefit from having a full-time accountant (or several) on staff.
Each situation is different. Before you make a decision on what kind of help you need, look at a few variables.
Can I learn this?
Can someone else in my organization learn this?
Is it going to be worth either of our time?
These questions may help direct you to the proper course of action. The ACE link in the sidebar has a simple infographic which matches the answers to the type of service you are likely to require.
My long-standing free consulting hours on Tuesday mornings remain intact. I am still providing hourly consulting/advisory services to authors as requested. However, business advising is far better handled through the SBDC, where I am now also! These services are scheduled through the office, contact information is in the sidebar.
