Contracts with Contract Consultants: The Do’s, Don’ts & Delightful Detours

Hiring a contract consultant can be awesome—like having a secret weapon on your team. But if things aren’t clear from the start, it can turn into a big, messy game of email tag and confusion. Don’t worry—we’ve got you. This guide will help you keep things smooth, simple, and way less stressful (with a few laughs along the way).

✅ DO: Spell Out the Scope (Clearly, Kindly)

Set the scene from the start! Whether your consultant is creating policies & procedures, building a course, or high-tech API documents, define what's included—and what isn’t. Clarity spares wasted time and confusion.

Fun twist: Present these clear, color-coded bullet points or a playful infographic—because who doesn’t like a little design therapy?

✅ DO: Break It into Bite‑Sized Milestones

Avoid the “Is it done yet?” swirl by mapping out key phases: first draft, internal review, pilot test. And attach dates. It keeps everyone on track—and shows momentum.

✅ DO: Be Transparent About Budget & Billing

Explain what’s covered (travel, templates, software) and agree on payment terms—deposit, milestone release, and final pay‑off. Happy consultants (i.e. paid consultants), are higher performing consultants.

Fun twist: Consider keeping the contract time and materials-based. In our 20+ years of staffing, those have been some of the most successful projects, as everyone walks away happy and compensated for their work.

✅ DO: Hand Over the Tools

Don’t leave your consultant fumbling in a new playbook. Provide orientation, credentials, process docs, Slack channels, and the occasional “team tour” to help them hit the ground running.

Fun twist: Include a welcome kit email with onboarding videos, team memes, or something fun like “you get the secret handshake once you finish orientation.”

🚫 DON’T: Micromanage—Let ’Em Fly

If they’re the expert, grant them space. Too much oversight can dampen creativity—and disrupt autonomy. This is where consultants shine, you have hired them for a reason to be the best, fast, and experts in their field. Let them fly!

Fun twist: But! To stay connected, schedule weekly “huddles”—quick 15‑minute check-ins with zero reporting (this can be done separately), only updates, and help if needed.

🚫 DON’T: Disappear After the Deliverable

Silence isn't golden when it comes to consultant work. Leaving a writer hanging without feedback makes them wonder, “Did it land? Did it flop? Are they just... gone?”

Even a quick “Looks good!” or “Let’s tweak this one section” keeps the momentum (and morale) up.

Fun twist: Add a little flair—drop a “You crushed it!” GIF or a cheerful comment when reviewing their work. It makes the process more human—and a lot more fun.

🚫 DON’T: Start Scope Creep Without Talking, Time it will take, and Money

Got a new task idea? Great! But don’t assume it’s in scope—or free. Revisit the scope, timeline, and hours/fee with them.

BONUS TIP: Share the Wheel, Not Just the Roadmap

The best contract teams don’t just assign tasks—they share ownership. Invite consultants to participate in specific project phases, run review sessions, or even suggest process improvements. You hired them for their expertise—let it shine!

It’s not just about controlling the project—it’s about collaborating intentionally. With oversight, transparency, and a good attitude, you get high‑quality work delivered on time.

Let’s Make Your Next Project Effortless

Managing consultants doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right people and the right process, it’s smooth sailing.

At Writer Resource, we connect you with expert contract professionals—technical writers, medical writers, instructional designers, and more—who hit the ground running.

Need reliable talent fast? Visit Writer Resource today

Have a project in mind?  Reach out today

Let’s get your project moving—with less stress and more results.