How to Choose an ISO Consultant: 10 Questions to Ask

Why Consultant Selection Matters

The right ISO consultant can mean the difference between a smooth certification journey and a frustrating, expensive experience. Before you engage anyone, ask these critical questions.

Question 1: What is your experience in our industry?

Industry-specific experience matters. A consultant who understands aerospace challenges will be far more effective for an AS9100 implementation than a generalist.

Question 2: Are you a certified Auditor in this standard? What third-party certification bodies have you worked for?

This is crucial. A consultant who actively audits for certification bodies has insider knowledge of exactly what auditors look for during Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits. They understand the audit process from both sides, which translates to better preparation and fewer surprises during your certification audit.

Question 3: What certifications and credentials do you hold?

Look for Lead Auditor certifications in the relevant standard(s). Active auditor status indicates current, practical knowledge of how auditors evaluate compliance.

Question 4: What is your approach to implementation?

Beware of "cookie-cutter" approaches. Your QMS should be tailored to your operations, not copied from a template that doesn't fit your business.

Question 5: How do you handle the certification audit?

Good consultants prepare you thoroughly for the audit and often attend (as observers) to provide support. Understand exactly what audit support is included.

Question 6: What is your fee structure?

Get clear, written quotes. Understand what's included, what's extra, and how scope changes are handled. Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true.

Question 7: What is the expected timeline?

Realistic timelines vary based on your current state and complexity. Be skeptical of promises that seem unrealistically fast.

Question 8: How do you handle nonconformances found during implementation?

Issues will arise. Understanding how the consultant approaches problem-solving reveals a lot about their working style.

Question 9: What is your Stage 2 audit success record?

Ask specifically about their track record with Stage 2 certification audits. How many implementations have they completed? How many resulted in nonconformances at Stage 2? A strong consultant should have a proven record of clients achieving certification without major issues.

Question 10: What happens after certification?

Certification is just the beginning. Understand what ongoing support options are available and how the consultant can help with surveillance audits and continuous improvement.

Red Flags to Watch For

Guarantees of certification (no one can guarantee this)
One-size-fits-all documentation packages
Pressure to sign quickly without proper evaluation
No active auditing experience with certification bodies

Make an Informed Decision

Take time to evaluate multiple consultants before making your choice. The right partner will make your ISO journey smoother and more successful. Contact Exceleor for a no-obligation consultation where we'll answer all these questions—and any others you have.