Consultants Who Partner or That Command? Why the Best Consultant Gives Options, Not Orders

The Difference Between Consultants Who Dictate and Those Who Partner | Lyndsey Hanna x Northstar HR

The best consultants don’t bark orders — they build partnerships.

In this clip from Nicole’s Business Notebook, Lyndsey Hanna, founder of Northstar HR, explains how to spot the difference between a consultant who’s there to collaborate and one who’s there to control.

“Are they the kind of consultant who walks in like, ‘I’m getting paid thousands, so do what I say’?
Or the kind who says, ‘Here are three options — it’s your call’?”

True consultants empower you to make decisions. They don’t take over your company; they guide you through choices that align with your goals, your people, and your values.

💡 Key Insights:

Collaboration beats command — every time.

A great consultant partners with all stakeholders, from benefits brokers to HR teams.

The best leaders guide, they don’t dictate.

Choose consultants who respect your ownership and decision-making.

True partnership creates trust, clarity, and lasting results.

This short is part of the Northstar HR x Nicole’s Business Notebook series — a raw, real look at what great consulting, leadership, and communication look like in action.

💼 About Lyndsey Hanna & Northstar HR

Lyndsey Hanna, founder of Northstar HR, helps businesses navigate complex Mergers & Acquisitions, improve retention, and align leadership teams through people-first HR strategy. Her approach is grounded in respect, transparency, and collaboration.

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#NicoleBanks #NicolesBusinessNotebook #NorthstarHR #Leadership #Consulting #BusinessConsulting #HRConsulting #EntrepreneurMindset #CompanyCulture #PeopleFirst #CollaborationOverControl #BusinessAdvice #LyndseyHanna

🧭 Tags

consulting strategy, HR leadership, business consulting tips, collaboration, leadership mindset, company culture, Northstar HR, Nicole Banks, consulting partnerships, how to choose a consultant