Why business expert opinions are hyped?

When it comes to making business decisions, everyone seems to have a formula at hand. The persons they trust or their circle of influence is based on their background, their own knowledge levels and finally their own understanding of their business. This could be called a comfort factor, offering reassurance or solace with the help of which they claim to have negotiated during most of the challenges faced in their businesses.

Since, most businesses have their own parentage or lineage (read vastly different backgrounds), they would tend to have individual yardsticks as to what constitutes good business advice. Therefore, it follows that there cannot be any common measure to determine the quality of the advice or the advisors. Now the comfort zone of the individual businesses are not by definition the most ideal backdrop for optimal decision making since their preferences or individual bias may itself influence the answers to questions they are seeking. And what if the providers of the information for these businesses (the circle of influence referred to earlier) are themselves stuck in a time-warp of their own ? Then, limited by their knowledge & experience, the options for these businesses are not too many. A case of the bland leading the blind.

Therefore, the right information at your fingertips is everything. But where do you turn when you need expert advice fast? Also, without the assurance of previous experience, which road does the business take? To summarize, (1) Is there any source for validation for these business decisions? (2) Is there a platform where you can get views from multiple sources ? (3) Is there an assurance factor viz. by way of a self correcting mechanism for review & rectification ?

Business consultation in progress

But how many Business Solution platforms work in practice ?

You might wonder, “How exactly does this process unfold?” It’s simpler than you think. Most platforms operate like this:

1. Defining the problem : Most of the platforms make basic assumptions about the client, the business scenarios they could be facing
   

2. Identifying the options : Having defined the problem for you, they next lay out the options to negotiate the issues attributed to them

   
   

3. The power of examples : Having outlined the problems & issues and their possible solutions, they present case studies which fit the premise in (1) & (2) above.

   
   

4. Make offers which you can't refuse: The next step is to illustrate a really short-cut to negotiate the maze and an offer to take you there at 20-30% of the cost which would be otherwise spent.

   
   

5. Working the solution: Of course this is the crucial part where most of the assumptions would be tested. Without making any generalizations, 8 out of 10 seem to fail at this stage. Why ? The main drawback is in defining a standard set of problem, which in reality are really multi-faceted which cannot be boxed in 1-2 categories. Of course, if the problem is inadequately stated, the pre-conceived solutions are themselves not likely to provide any mid-term or long-term solution for the issues really faced. Inevitably, therefore, every 'consultancy fail' is presented as a client issue without recognizing every client as 'unique' with individual needs.
   

How Business Opinion Services could become Game-Changers

Imagine you’re facing a critical business decision. Maybe it’s about launching a new product, entering a new market, or navigating complex regulations. You could spend weeks researching, or you could get straight to the point with a business opinion service. These platforms offer quick access to vetted experts who know their stuff inside and out.

Here’s why they could be valuable:

• Speed: If you can get answers in hours or days, not weeks.

• Expertise: If you can connect with professionals who have real-world experience.

• Objectivity: If you can receive unbiased advice tailored to your unique situation.

• Cost-Effective: If you can avoid costly mistakes by consulting before you act.

  
  

For example, a startup founder I know used a business opinion service to validate their product-market fit. Instead of guessing, they got direct feedback from industry veterans. The result? A pivot that saved them thousands and set them on a path to growth.

How  vBoard™ is a Game-Changer

This is what vBoard™ does, for instance. They’ve streamlined this process to make expert advice accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a small business owner or a corporate executive, you can tap into a network of trusted consultants without the usual hassle.

1. Find your expert: We went a step ahead and let you choose an expert

2. Submit a test query : You can describe your challenge or question in detail. But a test query initially, to understand how your expert thinks.

3. Match with Experts: Even if you do not get the reply you are seeking, you keep searching till you get a best-fit .The platform connects you with professionals who specialize in your area.

4. Validate your query: Get a validation from the expert.

5. Choose your product : Depending upon the nature of the query go for an one-time reply, a advanced, consulting or training/skilling based query or a 2 month, 6 month or year long engagement with your own selected expert(s).

6. Communicate with the expert(s): Engage via phone, messages or email

7. Receive Insights: Get clear, actionable advice tailored to your needs.

   
   

What’s more, these services often provide follow-up support. So, if you need clarification or want to explore new angles, you’re covered. It’s like having a personal advisory board on demand!

Expert profiles on a digital consultation platform

Unlocking the Power of an Expert Opinion Service

Now, here’s the secret sauce: using an expert opinion service effectively means knowing when and how to ask the right questions. Don’t just seek generic advice. Be specific. Provide context. The more details you share, the better the expert can tailor their guidance.

For example, instead of asking, “Is this a good idea?” try, “What are the potential risks and benefits of launching this product in the urban market within the next six months?” This sharpens the focus and delivers insights you can act on immediately.

Also, consider these tips to maximize your experience:

• Prepare in advance: Gather relevant data and documents.

• Be open to feedback: Sometimes the best advice challenges your assumptions.

• Follow up: Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or additional input.

• Implement quickly: The value of expert advice lies in timely action.

  
  

By integrating these practices, you turn expert consultations into a powerful tool for growth and innovation.

Business meeting with data analysis

Ready to elevate your decision-making? Dive into the world of business opinion services and experience the difference firsthand. With platforms like vBoard™, expert guidance is just a click away. Why wait? Your next breakthrough could be one conversation away!