Consultant vs. In-House: Evangelos Demestihas on What’s Best for Companies in 2025

In today’s rapidly changing business environment, companies are constantly looking for ways to stay ahead. One common challenge is deciding whether to hire a business consultant or rely on an in-house expert to tackle key issues and drive growth. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your company’s specific needs and goals. Let’s break down the differences to help you make an informed decision in 2025.

What Does a Business Consultant Bring to the Table?

Business consultants are external experts hired to solve specific problems, offer guidance, or implement new strategies. Their main advantage lies in their objectivity and specialized knowledge.

Consultants often work with multiple companies across industries, which gives them a broad perspective on trends and best practices.

For example, if your company is struggling with digital transformation, a consultant can provide insights into the latest technologies and processes. Additionally, consultants are typically goal-oriented and focus on delivering results within a set timeframe. This makes them an excellent choice for tackling short-term projects or addressing challenges that require niche expertise.

One of the challenges, however, is that consultants may lack deep knowledge of your company’s culture and internal workings. While they can bring fresh ideas, implementing those ideas may require more effort if they are not aligned with your existing processes.

The Strengths of In-House Experts

In-house experts, on the other hand, are employees who are deeply embedded in your company. They understand the nuances of your business, including its culture, team dynamics, and long-term goals. This familiarity can be a major advantage when addressing ongoing issues or implementing strategies that require a thorough understanding of your organization’s inner workings.

In-house experts are also more accessible than consultants. Since they are part of your team, they can provide continuous support and adjust their approach as needed. This can be especially beneficial for long-term initiatives like improving employee engagement or developing new products.

However, one potential downside of relying solely on in-house experts is that they may lack exposure to external trends or innovative practices. Without fresh perspectives, there’s a risk of becoming too set in established ways of doing things, which could hinder growth and innovation.

When Should You Choose a Business Consultant?

Hiring a business consultant makes sense when you need:

Specialized Expertise: Consultants are ideal for projects that require niche skills or knowledge that your in-house team may lack. For example, companies looking to expand internationally might benefit from a consultant who specializes in global markets.

Objective Insights: Consultants provide an outside perspective, which can be invaluable when addressing sensitive issues or exploring new opportunities.

Quick Results: If you have a pressing deadline or need to solve a specific problem quickly, consultants can deliver focused solutions without getting bogged down by other responsibilities.

Evangelos Demestihas, a renowned business consultant, emphasizes the importance of clearly defining project goals before hiring a consultant. He notes that “having a clear scope ensures both the company and the consultant stay aligned and achieve meaningful outcomes.”

When Should You Rely on In-House Experts?

In-house experts are best suited for:

Long-Term Strategies: When your company is focused on ongoing projects or gradual improvements, in-house experts provide the continuity needed to see these initiatives through.

Company-Specific Knowledge: For tasks that require a deep understanding of your business, such as maintaining customer relationships or managing internal operations, in-house experts are invaluable.

Cost Efficiency: While hiring a consultant might seem expensive, investing in training and developing your in-house team can be more cost-effective in the long run.

Evangelos Demestihas points out that in-house teams play a critical role in maintaining a company’s culture and vision. He states, “Your internal experts are the keepers of your brand’s identity. They ensure that any new strategies align with your core values.”

Combining Both for Maximum Impact

For many companies, the ideal solution is not an either-or decision but a combination of both approaches. Business consultants and in-house experts can complement each other to achieve the best results. Consultants can bring fresh ideas and specialized skills, while in-house experts ensure these solutions are implemented effectively and sustainably.

For example, a consultant might help design a new marketing strategy, while your in-house marketing team handles the execution and ensures it aligns with your brand voice. This collaborative approach allows you to leverage the strengths of both.

Making the Right Choice for 2025

The decision between a business consultant and an in-house expert ultimately depends on your company’s specific needs, budget, and goals. Ask yourself:

Do we need specialized skills or an outside perspective?

Is this a short-term project or a long-term initiative?

How well does our current team handle similar challenges?

Evangelos Demestihas suggests starting with a clear assessment of your company’s strengths and weaknesses. “By understanding where you need support, you can decide whether to bring in external help or build internal capabilities,” he advises.

Conclusion

Both business consultants and in-house experts offer unique advantages. While consultants provide specialized knowledge and fresh perspectives, in-house experts offer deep familiarity with your company’s operations and culture. By carefully evaluating your needs and considering a blended approach, you can make the best choice for your company in 2025 and beyond.