Bixby, S. This paper describes several general rules of thumb to consider in selecting a consultant, whether that consultant is an engineer, planner, lawyer, or other professional advice-giver. Those rules of thumb begin with the entity seeking a consultant identifying its understanding of the problem and expectations for scope, budget, and schedule. The guidelines then consider a variety of tangible and intangible issues such as consultant qualifications and the consultant’s ability to provide tactful honesty, even when delivering a message the client may not wish to hear. Paper.