According to Entrepreneur, Inc., there are more than 30,000 business coaches in the United States. When you do a Google search for “Business Coach”, you will find that there are over 58 million searches. It’s a popular industry and some of the most successful people have used a trainer. So it’s always interesting for me to find someone who doesn’t know what a coach is. I am often asked: “What is a business coach?”

Simply put: a coach is someone who builds, supports, and encourages another person. They help train the other for success. When we look at a coach of athletes, we find that the coach doesn’t work with just anyone. he recruits the best talent and builds, supports and encourages the talent that already exists. The business coach is someone who does the same. The best coaches tend to be selective about who they work with and then work with the client to build, support and encourage their clients’ business and talent.

The best business coaches DO NOT:

* tell you what to do
* make decisions for you
* work as your therapist
* do the work for you
* give a “pat answer”
* EVER tell you to give up

The best business coaches DO:

* use your wisdom and knowledge
* help you develop a strategy to get the results YOU want
* help you prioritize your projects and goals
* Provide personalized one-on-one attention
* become a resource for your business
* empower you with ideas and feedback

WHY HIRE A BUSINESS COACH?

You hire a trainer to challenge you. Be a listening ear. Give objective advice. Take responsibility for the goals you have set for yourself. Take you out of your comfort zone. Help you look bigger. Consult from your knowledge and business experience.

Often your meetings with a business coach will take place over the phone, but they can also take place via email, instant messaging, or face-to-face. Most trainers require money up front and the best ones will offer you the chance to change your mind after one session. With someone else focused on your success, you’re guaranteed to go further and faster! Yes, I used the word “guarantee”!