How To Choose A Business Coach

Every football team requires a Coach to succeed. The same is applicable to businesses. You need a business coach to succeed. Having said that, there are many small business coaches to choose from, so it helps to have clarity about what you're looking for in a coach.

Properly selecting a business coach or consultant (or business advisor) is not easy. But since the cost associated with a poorly selected business consultant can be high, the payoff of taking the time to make a good choice is a good investment.

Choosing a business coach for you will lead to a productive and inspiring relationship. Take your time to do your homework and you'll certainly find the right coach for you.

The Role Of The Business Coach

The role of a business coach is to supplement your knowledge so you can make sound, informed decisions. Understanding this is critical to creating a good working relationship that achieves desired results. Although the consultant provides advice, you are responsible for the final decisions.

Defining The Work

It is easier to select a business consultant if you know what results and "deliverables" you want. Deliverables are the components of the finished product (the plan) that you expect the consultant to complete. Clearly state what needs to be done. Specify what you expect to be produced (e.g., a business plan). This initial effort will save time.

Expertise Of The Coach

Consultants vary greatly in their level of expertise. Consultants loose their value when they get out of their area of expertise.

• What Is The Consultant’s Special Area Of Expertise?  Does the consultant’s area of expertise match what you want them to do for you? Ask if the consultant has done similar work for other groups. Choosing a consultant with the exact area of expertise you want can increase the quality of the work and may reduce the cost. Problems with consultants often arise when they work in areas in which they are unfamiliar.
• What Is The Coach’s Knowledge Of The Industry?  Has he worked in the industry? Does the consultant personally know the industry players? Choosing a consultant who is knowledgeable of the industry will improve the quality of the result and decrease the amount of time needed to achieve the result.
• Will The Coach Provide An Independent Perspective?  Will the coach provide a perspective that is based on actual research findings? Or, is the consultant apt to provide hearsay and information not documented?
• What Are The Research Capabilities Of Analyzing Existing Statistical Information? Can they effectively do surveys or focus groups if needed? Do they know people to ask in the industry?
• Ask For A Sample Of The Coach’s Work. Request for the coach reports and other materials he has developed for other clients that relate to the focus of the work you are asking for.

Choosing the right coach or consultant for you will lead to a productive and inspiring relationship. Do your homework and you'll certainly find the right coach for you.

Work with these ideas and your success is guaranteed!
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