Business Coaching: All You Need To Know

Posted by Ann Hoge
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Do you remember when you were in school and your teachers would always help you with any difficulties you faced with any of your tasks and assignment? Also, do you remember how much you relied on them to provide you with that much needed guidance and advice without which you couldn’t overcome these problems?

If you have been employed, you will have most likely experience similar problems where you wishes a teacher was there to help you; and, fortunately, in many cases your manager took on that role. However, there are times when getting the advice you need isn’t so easy. This is none more so evident than when you are running your own business as you are your own manager. Who is there to guide you? In instances such as this, the individual you need is often referred to as a business coach.

Before we start digging into the concept around what business coaching is, there is one common misconception that needs to be clarified first. It is often said that those who are performing poorly, struggling, or just start their business careers are in high need of one; not true. Entrepreneurs of all levels can benefit greatly from having a coach assist in business development.

Who Are They?

Typically, they are highly skilled and qualified people with a backgorund in relevant issues who are able to oversee, guide, and assist an owner/manager in starting and developing a business. The main reason is to help clarify the company’s goals and objectives, help in developing the necessary skills, and gain the right resources to run a successful business.

The principles of coaching remain a constant regardless of the industry. With this in mind, business coaching is similar to every other type of training. Surprisingly, a business mentor does several of the same things as those who are involved in sports coaching, but in a way that focuses on building and running a successful business.

These professionals are charged with the responsibility of training owners and managers in matters that are related to encouragement, accountability, support, and guidance. This training program helps those who are starting their business, or who already own one, with management, team building, sales, and marketing just to name a few.

A business coach should have regular contact with clients, whether it be over the phone or in person, to discuss any present and future aspects of the company. This will help to keep the business on an established track, continually moving the business forward in achieving its goals and objectives.

Areas of Coaching

Mentoring can be of benefit in the following areas:

General Planning: A coach is able to work with the owner or manager of the company on developing a strategic plan, financial management, promotions and marketing, as well as all general administrative and personal issues.

Marketing and Promotional Planning: They specialise in marketing to assist companies in creating and implementing their advertising, public relations, and any other promotional plans.

Financial Planning: Coaches specialise in assisting business owners and managers understand important areas such as cash flow management, employee compensation plans, financial statements, and pricing strategues. However, a business coach is typically not a tax advisor.

Why You Need A Business Coach

There are many reasons as to why you need to seek the guidance of a business coach. We then recommend that you look for someone who is a professional, successful, and has genuine interesting in taking your business to the next stage of its development.  Here are some of the typical situations where a business coach can help:

Your Business is not Making a Decent Profit

If your business isn’t making enough profit, you should definitely considering someone from a business coaching background. They can teach you effective methods to move your business to a much healthier position. The areas you will go over with your business mentor will apply to more than one section of your business and, in fact, the entire business industry. This will mean that you will learn the general aspects of becoming successful that are relevant to any ind of business.