At every networking event, I hear people talking about their business coach and I am always curious how they chose the right person. Sometimes, I hear complaints though too because they didn’t choose the right person. As nearly everyone is realizing now, business coaching is an integral part of any business owner’s growth and so it is more in demand than ever before. There are also new coaches popping up on every corner, so how do you who is the right coach for you?
There are many factors to consider including personality, style, education, experience, certification, and the list goes on so it does require research. Start with asking your network for recommendations, check out reviews on Google, and definitely use LinkedIn. Any business coach should have a strong presence on the #1 Business social media platform.
Focus your research in these 6 areas:
- Knowledge – Business Coaching is not regulated so anyone can label themselves a business coach. Ask your coach about their training and certifications. Business coaching can range from time management to marketing advice too. Choose a coach that is an expert in your weakest areas. Lastly, make sure that your coach is continuing their own education as well. It is important that they are up to date with their own professional development.
- Experience – How long have they been a coach? What is their work experience before coaching? It may be a perk to choose someone who has also owned a small business or worked intimately as part of the company so that they can emphasize with your challenges. It may also help to have someone who is familiar with your specific industry, but it is not a requirement. Lastly, what size businesses are they used to working with. Large, medium and small businesses have very different challenges. It is important they understand your specific challenges.
- Style – Every coach will have a different personality. Some will be more serious and introverted, others may be more outgoing and fast-paced. What works best with your personality. Make sure you feel motivated and confident after working with your coach. Quite simply, make sure you like them because you will be spending a lot of time with them and you need to trust them with confidential information.
- Availability – How many clients are they working with? Will they have time for you in case of an urgent question? Do you need someone that can work outside of regular hours, such as evenings and weekends?
- Resources – What resources does your coach have access to? Are they able to recommend podcasts, books, and other materials for you to use outside of your coaching time? Do they use tools such as DISC profiles, Sigmoid Curves, S.M.A.R.T. goals, etc.
- Program Types – Does your coach offer private and group programs? You may find that a group program is a good place for you to start until you are for more extensive coaching. You might also want to join a group program after your private coaching once you have solid foundations. Everyone is different and it is nice to have these options.
Are you ready to find a coach? At FocalPoint, we have several coaches to choose from that all work together to provide optimal support to all our clients. FocalPoint also provides training and resources to their business coaches to which most do not have access. Every FocalPoint coach is certified and ready to help you grow your business. Call us today to learn more about business coaching options and let us find the right coach for you!