Business Coaching Defined

Business Coaching is transformational.

Years ago, one of the only resources for the solopreneur was the Small Business Association, and they would help a new business owner craft a traditional business plan.

Times have changed.

Nowadays, there are thousands of experts that support entrepreneurs so that they can meet the demands of what it takes to own and operate a successful, growing business. Among those experts, are business coaches.

Wikipedia states, “Coaching is a form of development in which a person called a coach supports a learner or client in achieving a specific personal or professional goal by providing training and guidance. The word “coaching” identifies a process used to transport people from where they are to where they want to be.”

I like that for a basic definition of coaching. Of course, there are various forms, styles, and processes. Keep in mind, a business coach can have a specialty and focus solely on executive planning, leadership, organizational development, mindset, team building, etc.

One thing that is common with coaching is the transformational aspect — Taking the client and their business from where they are to where they desire to go. To me, this is where the magic happens — watching something morph and take shape into a creation of beauty through skill, grace, effective communication, and sharp strategic skills.

Most business coaching models are conducted either in-person or via online conference software (like Zoom).

Let’s look at types of business coaching:

One-on-One Business Coaching

The model of private consultations, in a one-on-one setting, is probably one of the most popular and common forms of business coaching. One of the main benefits of this type of coaching is the very personal nature of it. The client is in a safe and confidential environment, comfortable to share delicate details of the business, whether they be financial or emotional. The focus is specifically on the client; their needs, their schedule, their desired outcome.

1. A newer small business owner that needs assistance defining their message, building a brand, developing a product line, establishing an online presence, etc.
2. A seasoned entrepreneur that requires a “fresh pair of eyes” on their business. Someone who is ready to take their business to the next level and requires assistance in developing a marketing/strategy plan to get there.
3. Solopreneurs looking for motivation, modern marketing guidance, and an accountability partner to keep them honest and moving forward in a timely manner so that they can achieve their goals.

Group Coaching

Becoming increasingly popular for a variety of reasons, group coaching is next on the list of types of business coaching. In this model, group coaching provides a level of personal, dedicated coaching per client, but also has a collective aspect to it. Not all group coaching programs are created equal and there are various elements of what’s included per program.

However, in general, there are typically group conferences where everyone gathers at the same time for the session. The client has the opportunity to speak directly to the coach to share what’s going on for them and receive the coach’s feedback. The other attendees are able to glean information and tips from each person’s participation, as many times business owners come up against similar struggles.

Group Coaching is good for:

1. The small business owner that is new to coaching and is interested in experiencing what it’s all about.
2. The solopreneur who appreciates community and desires being a part of a tribe of like-minded business owners.
3. The entrepreneur that knows they need to be in alignment with professionals that prioritize their businesses and wants to be in that type of energy to keep the momentum alive.

Typically, an added benefit of group coaching is the cost is lower than one-on-one coaching since the offering is one-to-many.

Business Coaching Workshops, Events, Retreats

Business coaching workshops, events, and retreats offer an opportunity to go deep into a specific topic, network, and provide a group immersion experience. Most are conducted in-person, however workshops can also be held online via a webinar, tele-summit, Facebook Live, etc.

Business coaching workshops, events, and retreats are good for:

1. Business owners that love to focus on one educational topic at a time in a supportive environment.

2. People who love to learn in-person, network with like-minded business owners, and share experiences with their biz besties.

3. Entrepreneurs who desire to integrate business opportunities with fun and social elements as well.

In all cases, an effective business coach helps clients prioritize their goals, develop strategic plans to accomplish them, and establishes accountability to measure progress and sustain results.

Personally, I find business coaching is a wonderful opportunity to optimize + amplify your business, at any stage of the game. It also provides positive, personal support along the way.

Have you experienced business coaching before? If so, what were your results? Share your story in the comments below.

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