To supplement a company's internal staff. Sometimes business executives discover they can save thousands of dollars a week by hiring consultants when needed rather than hiring full-time employees. They also can save additional money because consultants don't need benefits. So even though a consultant's fees are generally higher than an employee's salary, over the long haul, a consultant tends to be a less expensive option.

First, as a result of the trend toward corporate downsizing, many companies have found that they lack the internal manpower to complete all necessary tasks. Second, the complexity of today's business climate—as a result of deregulation, globalization, and technology advancements—has outpaced many companies' level of expertise. Finally, consultants provide a way for companies to get special projects done without adding employees to the payroll.

A consultant may be hired to do the "dirty work." Let's face it: No one wants to be the person who has to go out and find new business from thin air, it takes time and skill to develop this trade.