A business coach has industry management experience to help and guide business owners through many of the challenges they face.
Some of these challenges include hiring, recommending software, paying taxes and helping to plan your marketing and growth strategy. They can also help you to develop your leadership skills.

We will go over some tips on how to find a business coach to prime your small business for success.
Business Network
Many other business owners have used a coach to help them in their own business and a referral from another business leader is the top way of finding a coach to help your business grow.
Search Online
You can find just about anything online and a coach to help business owners is no exception. Be sure to check social media and most particularly, LinkedIn.
Search Locally
Attending a local Chamber of Commerce meet-up is a fun way to conduct a search. You can mingle with other business owners and get solid recommendations. The Better Business Bureau is another excellent and reliable resource.
Small Business Administration
The SBA provides services to small businesses such as recommending a coach. The Counselors to America’s Small Business, which used to be known as SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) can help too. Since they are non-profit, they both provide these services for free.
Do Coaches Need Certified?
Although there isn’t any type of official accrediting board, there are certification programs available that provide training, testing and assessments. If you choose a coach that has a certificate of completion from a recognized school, you can be better assured that you are getting a coach that is skilled and knowledgeable.
The best coach is someone who has experience both as a business owner and a coach. Be sure that you interview more than one person. Some questions you can ask are:
- How long have you been a coach?
- How long were you a business owner?
- How many business have you owned?
- How many industries have you worked in?
- How many clients have you had?
The more experience, the better. Your coach will help you to come up with an action plan, create a business plan, forge a marketing strategy and help you develop effective time management skills.
If there is a skill that you need specific help in, be sure that the coach you choose is an expert in that particular area.
The Right Fit
You will need to find someone who fits with your own personality. You will be spending a good bit of time together so it’s important that you both get along well.
Be sure that during your interview, you have good rapport and that you feel they are trustworthy. You will have to rely on your instincts when interviewing but be sure that you enjoy their company.
Choosing the right business coach can help to prepare you for the many challenges that small business owners face. Be sure that you choose someone who can give your business the best chance for success.



