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Guest post by: Stewart Gordan Become an Author

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It doesn’t matter what line of work you’re in. Sometimes, everyone can benefit from a little guidance. But, you don’t have to spend a fortune hiring a certified business coach in order to get some help for you and your business. Here are some tips for you on finding not just the best business coach, but the best coach for you.

First of all, you want to start off by asking those around you, whether your colleagues or trusted sources in your networks, for references. See if they have had any positive coaching experiences and have some contacts they could give you. And don’t just limit yourself to fellow entrepreneurs. Often times, people from all walks of life had made use of coaching services. Ask your lawyer, your banker, your accountant, or any professional you can think of – any professional that has been relatively successful, that is. I wouldn’t suggest taking advice from someone who is in a worse position than you.

If your network comes up empty, try exploring some of the coaching industry associations. They will likely have high standards of membership and recommendations that you can trust. But before you start contacting potential candidates, you need to look at your own needs first.

What area of your business or personal life are you looking to improve? How do you want to improve it? Whether you choose to go with a certified business coach or not, most good coaches will specialize in just a few areas, so you need to make sure the one you select will be able to fulfill the needs you have.

Once you’ve outlined what you’re looking for, you can hit the road again and start interviewing potential coaches. Make sure you ask them a thorough list of questions, such as: What is your academic and practical experience in business? What is your previous coaching experience? What kind of clients have you managed before? What is your personal coaching style? What are your areas of expertise? What areas do you not work with? How have you dealt with Issue X before in the past?

Aside from the more general questions, don’t forget to get down to the nitty gritty of it all. How much do they charge per session? How long do the sessions last? Are the session by phone or email or in person? How do they give clients feedback? Make sure your needs will be fulfilled by their responses.

Finally, remember that no matter what their references may say, and no matter who recommended them, you need to go with someone that feels right for you. A certified business coach will no doubt have a long list of references, but if they are not someone you think you could grow to trust, then move on. Honesty between both parties is one of the number one priorities in this kind of relationship, so be sure you go with someone you feel comfortable with, and someone that your gut agrees with.

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