Using a Business Coach to the best advantage

As a business coach, I prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood and new clients should expect no less from their coaches. I let the clients lead the conversation, allowing them to discuss their agenda and goals. I actively listen for key discussion points and ask in-depth questions to help them make self-discoveries and find solutions that work best for them. This client-centered approach fosters receptiveness and empowers clients to take ownership of their development.

Quality business coaches should tailor their consultative approach to the most important issues affecting business. Generally, I’ll start a partnership by jointly identifying the potential value areas most impactful to the client. Some of the key areas that I often focus on include:

• Execution strategies: Helping businesses identify where to allocate their time, money, and energy to align with their mission and maximize return on investment.

• Leadership and management: Assisting small businesses in developing effective leadership skills, team building, delegation, and overall organizational development.

• Communication and time management: Enhancing clients' communication and interpersonal skills to improve relationships with employees, customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders. Additionally, helping them manage their time more efficiently.

• Systems and processes: Guiding entrepreneurs in developing streamlined operational systems and processes that increase productivity and enhance customer satisfaction.

• Goal setting and accountability: Working with clients to set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) and holding them accountable for their progress.

Once a focus area is identified, we’ll discuss the client’s issues and opportunities within that area. Every client has unique needs, and the issues they seek help with can vary. Some common areas where clients often require assistance include:

• Time management and prioritization: Clients often seek guidance in managing their time effectively, setting priorities, and overcoming challenges related to time constraints.

• Business strategy and decision-making: Many clients require support in developing or refining their business strategies, making informed decisions, and navigating challenges in their industry or market.

• Leadership and team development: Clients often seek help in improving their leadership skills, building effective teams, resolving conflicts, and creating a positive work culture.

• Sales and marketing: small businesses often need guidance in enhancing their sales and marketing efforts, attracting and retaining customers, and increasing their market presence.

Once a client’s focus area and opportunity are identified, it’s important for the business coach to take a collaborative approach in tailoring recommendations for the client’s specific situation and goals. Some general recommendations that I often make include:

• Setting clear goals: Encouraging clients to define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals to provide clarity and direction.

• Developing effective communication skills: Emphasizing the importance of active listening, clear and concise communication, and adapting communication styles to different stakeholders.

• Implementing efficient systems and processes: Assisting clients in identifying areas for process improvement, implementing streamlined systems, and utilizing technology to increase efficiency.

• Building strong relationships: Encouraging clients to focus on building positive relationships with employees, customers, suppliers, and other key stakeholders to foster collaboration and long-term success.

• Continuous learning and professional development: Supporting clients in staying updated with industry trends, acquiring new skills, and seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Every client is unique, and there’s no one size fits all solution. A client's lifestyle, schedule, and other factors all influence a client’s customized action plan.

To assess these and other relevant issues, I typically begin with a free discovery consultation. This initial session allows me to meet the client and determine if we are a good fit for working together. During this consultation, I gain a better understanding of their goals, challenges, and opportunities.

If I believe I have the necessary coaching skills to support them, we proceed. However, if their needs require a different set of coaching skills, I may refer them to another business coach who specializes in that area. The discovery consultation is a valuable opportunity to align client expectations and assess how I can best support their specific needs.