How do I choose an AI consultant?

Choose an AI consultant the way you would choose a builder: on evidence, not enthusiasm. Ask for case studies with named clients and real numbers, ideally from your sector. Check whether they implement or only advise; a strategy deck without working automations changes nothing. Ask what tools they recommend and whether they earn commission on them, since independence matters. Prefer fixed fees or clearly scoped day rates over open-ended retainers at the start. Test their diagnosis: a good consultant asks about your workflows, volumes and team before proposing anything. And check they work with businesses your size. A consultancy used to £100,000 enterprise programmes will struggle to make a £5,000 SME project profitable, and it shows in the attention you get.