Reasons to work with a Coach to start your Business
- kirstinbrenders
- Jan 18
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 20
Entrepreneurship is often portrayed as a lifestyle of freedom and creativity, but without proper guidance, it can become a path marked by uncertainty and challenges. Many new business owners find themselves stuck, unable to grow their business or meet their financial goals. This is where a Career Coach and Business Mentor steps in, helping to unlock potential and illuminate a clear path to success.
What does Coaching look like for new business owners?
A coach provides personalized support, guidance, and strategies tailored to the unique challenges independent contractors face. Whether it's struggling to define services, launch a website, find clients, manage work-life alignment, or develop the business, a skilled coach can offer the insights and tools needed to succeed.
Research indicates that indepentant contractor who work with a coach feel more successful in the first year. This improvement often stems from clearer goals and greater accountability.
The Benefits of Hiring a Coach and Business Mentor
1. Accountability and Motivation
One of the key challenges of starting a business is the lack of accountability. When working independently, it’s easy to lose focus or become demotivated. A coach serves as a partner on your journey, providing regular check-ins to help you stay on track with your goals.
For instance, if you set a target to acquire 5 new clients in a month, your coach will help you outline actionable steps and hold you accountable as you progress. This structure often leads to greater achievements and significantly boosts motivation.
2. Skill Development
Small business owners wear many hats—marketers, accountants, project managers, etc. This can be overwhelming, especially when you lack certain skills. A coach and business mentor can help you uncover what aspect of the start-up process is holding you back or keeping you stuck.
For example, if you struggle to pitch your services, your coach can provide resources, techniques, and practice opportunities to improve your pitching skills. By collaborating and engaging in a bit of role-play, you test out your approach and word choice, helping you to get off the struggle bus sooner.
3. Planning
Without a solid plan, launching a business can feel chaotic. Coaches are particularly good at helping others create short-term and long-term goals. This could involve deciding how many hours to work, setting income targets, and outlining marketing strategies. Research shows that having a clear business blueprint can lead to better decision-making and execution.
Design your calendar before you design your offers. Your time and energy controls your revenue, not your idea of a perfect plan. - Kirstin Brenders
4. Networking Opportunities
A coach and business mentor typically has a broad network of professional contacts. By hiring one, you might gain access to events, workshops, or introductions to potential clients or referral partners. Networking is valuable for new business owners, as referrals can lead to new business opportunities.
Imagine being encouraged to attend a conference where industry leaders share insights and connect with newcomers. That’s the kind of opportunity you might miss if you go it alone.
Surround yourself with people who inspire you. The company you keep is just as crucial as your business plan. - Kirstin Brenders.
5. Personalized Feedback
Starting a business is unique for each individual. What works for one small business owner may not work for another. A coach and business mentor provides personalized feedback based on your individual circumstances, industry, and goals. They can help navigate the complexities of pricing, client relationships, and tech tools
Using pricing strategies as an example, a coach may help you determine whether to charge by the hour, on a project basis, or on a retainer, depending on what is most advantageous for your situation.
Choosing the Right Coach
A good coach and business mentor for new business owners should have relevant experience and a coaching style that resonates with you. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a coach:
Experience in Starting a Business: Look for a coach who has firsthand experience working with different business models. They will understand the unique challenges you face.
Coaching Style: Different coaches have various approaches—some are more hands-on, while others provide a framework for you to navigate. Determine what style works best for you.
Testimonials: Check their references and reviews. A history of satisfied clients indicates a coach's effectiveness.
Trial Sessions: Many coaches offer initial consultations. Take advantage of this to gauge fit and comfort before committing.
Setting Goals with Your Coach
An essential part of working with a coach is setting attainable, measurable goals. Your coach will help you break these goals down into smaller, actionable steps. Here’s a framework to get started:
Define Your Vision: Envision where you want to be in 1, 3, or 5 years. What does success look like?
Set SMART Goals: Ensure that your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
Create an Action Plan: Outline the steps necessary to achieve each goal, including tactics and deadlines.
Review Regularly: Schedule regular meetings with your coach to assess progress and make adjustments if necessary.
Measuring Success
Success in owning a business is subjective, so it’s vital to establish criteria for measuring your progress. Your coach can help identify metrics that matter to you, such as:
Revenue growth
Client retention rates
Hours worked vs. income earned
Ability to have more time and flexibility for your family
Personal satisfaction levels
By regularly assessing these metrics, you can make informed decisions, pivot your approach, and celebrate wins, big or small.
Long-Term Impact of Coaching
Working with a coach isn't just about short-term gains. The skills and insights gained from this experience can benefit you throughout your entrepreneurial journey and beyond. As you navigate challenges and celebrate successes, you will cultivate resilience, expand your professional network, and do so on your own terms.
Ultimately, I believe the investment in a coach can pay dividends for years to come. By committing to this growth journey, you're setting yourself up to understand your values and strengths, learn how to self-coach, and ask powerful questions when you feel stuck for years to come.
In the world of small business, the path to success can often feel complicated and overwhelming. However, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Connect with me to learn about my coaching framework and approach, which can help you enhance your well-being and mindset as you start your new business.
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