How are business consultants paid?
Business consultants are typically paid through one or more of four models: hourly/daily, project-based, retainers, or value-based fees. Many consultants blend models—for example, a fixed project fee plus a smaller ongoing retainer for advisory and check-ins.
Common payment structures:
Hourly or daily: Clients pay for actual time spent; often used for coaching, ad hoc problem-solving, or short-term analysis.
Project-based: A defined fee for a specified scope (assessment, strategy, implementation plan) with clear milestones.
Retainer: A monthly fee for access to a consultant's expertise, meetings, and strategic guidance.
Value-based: Fees linked to results or impact, sometimes including performance bonuses or gainsharing.
Consultants may be paid by:
Direct invoices to the business, typically on net 15–30 day terms.
Online platforms or marketplaces for smaller, transactional engagements.
At Kindred Consulting Group:
Most work is structured as fixed-fee engagements with clearly defined phases: diagnostic, design, and implementation/advisory.
This approach gives leaders budget clarity while ensuring Kindred is accountable for delivering integrated, high-impact outcomes rather than isolated hours.
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