Small companies I work for don't really use consultants. In the one case they were, it was for particular expertise, not available in house, that is central to

Small companies I work for don't really use consultants. In the one case they were, it was for particular expertise, not available in house, that is central to the growth of the company. So I doubt they would be cut in this case, unless the company got into a lot of trouble (such that they would also be laying off staff). Small sample size, so pinch and sprinkle.