The Mistake: Committing to long-term contracts without testing the relationship and fit first.​

Why It’s Costly: Chemistry and communication style matter significantly in advisory relationships. Locking into a year-long contract with the wrong person creates friction and reduces effectiveness.​

The Better Approach: Start with a 3-6 month pilot project focused on a specific deliverable—building a cash flow model, conducting margin analysis, or implementing financial dashboards. This allows both parties to assess fit before committing long-term.