Should I use a coach or consultant for a startup pivot?
A coach may help surface behavioural resistance, while a decision consultant should test the market and operational evidence. Use the required output, rather than the job title, to choose.
Is a fractional executive independent?
A fractional executive may offer deep operating insight but can be paid to implement the chosen strategy. Ask them to separate recommendation work from follow-on delivery and disclose incentives.
Are marketplace advisers vetted?
Platforms differ; marketplace inclusion alone does not verify judgement, independence or fit. Review the individual practitioner, reference and bounded work sample. GrowthMentor — mentor marketplace
Can AI generate a comparison memo?
It can draft options, questions and scenario tables, but claims and calculations require independent checking. Do not share restricted information without an approved data policy. NIST Generative AI Profile, AI RMF
Should I pay a founder adviser in equity?
Treat equity as an economic and governance commitment, not free cashless advice. Model dilution and seek legal counsel on vesting, termination and conflicts. The SAFE — Y Combinator
Is a board adviser a substitute for an external challenger?
An independent director can bring valuable challenge but has a governance role and may have different duties. A short independent decision review may be more appropriate for a narrow question.
When is an external CFO worth adding?
When the choice depends materially on cash runway, hiring affordability or cap-table scenarios that your finance function cannot reconcile. A model is an input to judgement, not the decision itself. Burkland: Strategic Finance for Startups