What to ask a small business coach before you hire them

Hiring a small business coach can be a great step for your business when you are ready to move to the next level. The problem is knowing how to find the right one for your company. 

With the help of a good business coach, you will be able to address any of those issues that are standing in the way of allowing you, and your company, to achieve your full potential. 

Here are some of the questions you should ask any small business coach before you hire them.

What experience does your small business coach they have?

Ideally, a business coach will have experience of both business and coaching. Someone who has already scaled their own business up will be able to help you identify your pain points, your fears and any issues. They can do this because they have already done this themselves. Knowing that they have a track record at being successful in business is an indication that they know what they are doing and will be able to help you. 

Are their ideas aligned with yours?

Different people have different mindsets over how they approach things. So, you want to find someone who understands you and your business. If you don’t select a business coach who has experience of dealing with companies of a similar size to yours, you may encounter some issues long the way. 

Do you get on with them?

You don’t have to choose the first small business coach who you find. Being selective is no bad thing. You might find someone who has all the right qualifications on paper and a fantastic amount of experience. But, they might also be someone who you absolutely dread having meetings with. If this is the case, then it is better to look for someone else rather than struggle. 

Don’t fall for the hard sell

There are some business coaches who will tell you they have limited space for new clients. They may urge you to sign up with them fast in order to benefit from their services. However, you should not be swayed into falling for this “sales pitch”, or indeed any other sales slogans designed to impress. You want a business coach who will work with you not one who wants to sell you things.

Take a look at them 

Social media certainly has its place so take a look at them, see how they are interacting. Are they engaging or are they simply posting? You will get a good insight into the type of person that they are this way.

What does your business coach offer?

Ask them exactly what it is that they offer. Some business coaches offer workbooks, some host weekly Zoom calls, other in person meetings fortnightly. 

See if they offer an initial consultation for free. This is a great way to see if you can work together. Make sure you know exactly what the price that you are paying includes, and also what any things that are not included may cost you as additional extras.