The Non-Tech CEO’s Guide to Hiring a Tech Partner (Without Getting Burned)
The Non-Tech CEO’s Guide to Hiring a Tech Partner (Without Getting Burned)
Introduction
For service business CEOs, hiring a tech partner can feel overwhelming. How do you know who to trust? What should you look for? How do you avoid overpaying for solutions you don’t need?
This guide walks you through how to find and vet the right technology partner without getting burned.
1. Define Your Business Needs Before Talking to Tech Vendors
Many CEOs make the mistake of asking vendors what they should build instead of defining their own needs first. Tech partners should solve problems—not sell you unnecessary solutions.
Ask yourself:
- What are the biggest inefficiencies in our business?
- Where are we losing time or money due to manual work?
- What outcomes do we want technology to achieve?
2. Understand the Different Types of Tech Partners
Not all tech partners are the same. Choose based on your needs:
- Freelance Developers – Best for small automation projects or integrations.
- Tech Consultants – Best for strategy and implementation oversight.
- Software Development Firms – Best for full-scale custom software builds.
3. Look for Industry Experience
Your tech partner should understand service-based businesses. Avoid vendors who only work with software companies or focus on e-commerce solutions—their experience may not translate to your needs.
4. Avoid “One-Size-Fits-All” Solutions
Some vendors push their favorite tool or platform instead of building what’s best for you. Beware of companies that only recommend one software for every problem.
Look for a partner who:
- Asks detailed questions about your business before recommending solutions.
- Explains their process for evaluating different tools.
- Offers a clear scope of work and pricing transparency.
5. Start Small Before Committing
Before signing a long-term contract, start with a small project. A tech partner who delivers quick wins is more likely to be a reliable long-term partner.
Next Steps
Need help evaluating or hiring a tech partner? Book a Free Tech Roadmap Session, and we’ll guide you through the process.