by Chris Bennett
The popular trend these days is to hire a business coach who will help you become successful.
The problem is that anyone can set up shop and call themselves a business coach.
So how do you choose the right person for you?
Try the C.O.A.C.H method.
C = Compatibility
You need to be able to find out if you are compatible with a particular business coach. For example, see if you share the same values, the same ethics. Do you like the person? Is he or she someone you feel you can trust?
O = Openness
The coach should have a sense of openness. This openness in areas such as feedback and new ideas will allow the relationship to develop in a healthy and productive way. Coaches who are rigid and closed-minded should be avoided.
A = Appropriate experience
The business coach should have the appropriate experience. For example if you are running a small business, then the appropriate coach is probably one who has had experience with small business. If all his or her experience has been coaching executives in large companies, then it would possibly not be a right fit for you.
C = Challenge
You should find a coach who is assertive and able to challenge you in the areas that will help you become successful. Having a passive coach or an aggressive coach is not ideal for a productive business relationship. The ability to be assertive in business is vital, as it is in any other areas of life.
H = Hands Off
This sounds odd but you need someone who can back off to let you do the work required to become successful. A coach cannot make you successful. That’s your job. Your coach is certainly there to ask the right questions, offer advice, spur you along and remind you about achieving goals you have set for yourself. But for long-term success, look for a coach who supports you to become more and more independent of his or her services.
A business C.O.A.C.H. with the above qualities can help you reach your goals and become successful.
