Hiring an Impact Consultant: support to become B Corp Certified
B Lab UK recently announced there had been a 50% increase in B Corp certification in the last year alone - with 1500 businesses in the UK now certified as B Corp. Undoubtedly, we are living in a time of challenges - whether that is the cost-of-living crisis or the ongoing climate emergency.
As influences on both our daily lives and wallets, businesses surely have a role to play in finding solutions. That’s where B Corp certification comes in. Forward-thinking businesses, who believe that profit and being a force for good can be mutually beneficial - not mutually exclusive.
Here at UK for Good, we know that navigating the rigorous B Impact Assessment (BIA) and certification process can be challenging, which is why many businesses choose to hire a B Corp consultant for guidance.
In this article, we'll explore four key considerations to factor in when choosing a B Corp consultant to support your journey towards becoming certified.
How do I become B Corp certified?
While we know the journey towards becoming a B Corp might seem overwhelming and challenging, it's a path that's well worth pursuing. B Corp certification is a fantastic achievement; it demonstrates your business’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility, ethical governance, and positive impact.
If you're ready to make the leap, you're probably wondering where to start. For many, the first step often involves hiring a B Corp consultant to guide you through the process. In this blog post, we'll discuss the key factors to consider when selecting the right B Corp consultant for your business.
What is a B Corp Consultant?
Before we dive in, it's essential to understand the role of a B Corp consultant.
These professionals are experts in B Corp certification and offer support to businesses striving to meet the B Impact Assessment standards.
They provide advice, strategies, and support to help businesses implement sustainable practices, measure their social and environmental impact, and ultimately achieve B Corp certification.
Considerations when hiring a B Corp Consultant
Before hiring a B Corp consultant it is essential to ask yourself a few questions to figure out if they are a good fit for you.
Are they certified?
When searching for a B Corp consultant, one of the first things you should look for is whether the consultancy themselves are a B Corp. This is a clear indicator of their commitment to the B Corp movement and of their firsthand experience with the certification process. Some businesses also ask for support from a B Leader – these are impact consultants who have been trained by B Lab.
A consultant who has successfully navigated the certification journey themselves will likely have valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards involved.
Do they have a strong track record?
Do your homework and research the consultant's previous successes. Seek out testimonials, case studies, or reviews from other businesses they have helped through the B Corp certification process.
Reputation is a powerful indicator of their expertise and ability to guide you and your company successfully. The more satisfied clients they have, the more confidence you can have in their services.
What support will you receive?
The level of support a B Corp consultant offers can vary, so it's crucial to clarify what services are included in their consultancy package.
Some consultants may focus solely on helping you complete the B Impact Assessment, while others offer more comprehensive support, including organisational changes, strategy development, and ongoing long-term support with recertification processes.
Consider your unique needs and choose a consultant whose services align with your goals.
Do they have a community?
B Corp consultants often have connections within the B Corp community, which can be an invaluable resource. A consultant who is well-connected can introduce you to potential partners, suppliers, and like-minded businesses. This community aspect can extend your impact and lead to opportunities for collaboration and shared values.
Work with UK for Good
At UK for Good, our team of dedicated B Corp consultants embody these principles. We've walked the B Corp path, have a strong track record of successful certifications, and offer comprehensive support to guide your business toward becoming a certified B Corporation. We’d love for you to join us in the journey to making business a force for good.
Are you ready to take the next step towards B Corp certification? Get in touch to learn how we can help you achieve your impact goals and become a Certified B Corp.