There are many kinds of professionals that people deal with on a regular basis—from accountants to plumbers, from attorneys to interior decorators. I can’t possibly discuss all the different kinds individually in one blog post. What I can do is give some general guidelines to use as models for the kind of questions you should ask and the approaches you should take. You have to decide which guidelines are appropriate for your case

Many of the general principles carry over from one professional service to another, whether accountant, plumber, contractor, lawyer or any other. When using professional services, keep the following list in mind. If your project is complicated or expensive, make a written list as a reference:

* Know what you want; think things through ahead of time
* Ask for references
* Talk to previous customers
* Check for credentials or licenses
* Get a written contract
* Make sure you understand the contract
* Get second opinions or other bids
* Don’t be afraid to ask questions and demand answers if something doesn’t seem right or you don’t understand what’s happening
* Expect respectful treatment from the professional; if you don’t get it, go elsewhere
* Keep informed; get frequent updates of your case or project
* Consider alternative options, if necessary