The terms contractor and consultant are often used interchangeably, creating confusion for those looking to hire their services. Though there are similarities and overlap in roles and responsibilities, there are also some key differences between the two.
Key Takeaways
- Consultants are professionals known for their vision and sense of direction, providing advice and recommendations to solve problems or make decisions.
- Contractors are hired to complete a specific job according to a predefined level of competence, providing a concrete product rather than just an idea or suggestion.
- Consultants typically charge an hourly fee for their expert advice and opinion, while contractors charge a fixed fee for the product they promise (e.g., a building or a project).
Consultants are professionals with specialized skills and expertise that people seek to solve problems or make decisions in various aspects of life. They are known for their crisp advice and recommendations, providing guidance to help individuals move forward when faced with challenges or choices. Examples of consultants include career counselors, lawyers, and relationship counselors.
Contractors, on the other hand, are hired to complete a specific job according to a predefined level of competence. They possess a specific skill set and knowledge that can be applied to various jobs, providing a concrete product rather than just an idea or suggestion. Contractors may start with more knowledge through education but less experience, eventually gaining experience as they complete diverse jobs for clients.
