What Qualities Should You Look For in a Business Coach?
You can accomplish amazing personal growth by working with a business coach. A coach is interested in getting to know your unique circumstances and creating a customized action plan. She should push you to try new things while also supporting you if things don’t always go as planned.
It goes without saying that some coaches are better than others. There are many people offering their services to entrepreneurs, but many are not certified or qualified to offer guidance. Before you leap into such an important partnership, take some time to get to know a potential coach.
Knowledgeable About Your Industry
Your coach should be well aware of the trends of modern business. Most coaches are business owners themselves, so they should have an understanding of the challenges you may face. A coach doesn’t necessarily need to have experience in your specific industry, but she should be willing to learn about your business and to modify certain strategies to make them a better fit. If a potential coach seems out of touch, it’s probably best to keep looking.
Passionate About Coaching
Coaches who are truly passionate about leadership coaching strategies will naturally convey their excitement through the services they offer. The “perfect” coach will be determined and persistent, but also willing to compassionately support you in moments when you feel like throwing in the towel.
Your coach should also be passionate about your story. During your business coaching sessions, a professional Certified Business Coach will ask you questions to help you uncover the answers you may already know. If your coach doesn't seem interested in how you operate your business, it may be an indicator that they are unable to provide the suggestions and support you need.
Valuable Business Experience
The most crucial quality of a business coach is her personal experience in business. In order to effectively coach others through business related challenges, a coach must have real world experience dealing with failures and successes. Their personal insight will help you avoid making costly mistakes and increase your chance of success immensely.
Take a look at what your coach has accomplished. Is her path similar to what you want to accomplish? If you’re unsure of whether a potential coach has business experience to offer, you can certainly ask for testimonials or reviews from former clients.
Fair Expectations
You know what you hope to get out of coaching, but what does your coach hope to get out of you? A good coach will keep you accountable. They should feel comfortable communicating what they need from you, including timeframes and action items. If a potential coach doesn’t ask about what you’re capable of, including possible time constraints, how will you be sure you both have reasonable expectations? Consider consulting a different coach.
Are you searching for business coaching services in Minnesota? Contact Beth Barbosa to schedule your first meeting!
Contact Beth at Exponential Transformation Business and Life Coaching.
