Speaking to a therapist is good for sorting out personal issues, but when it comes to matters relating to running a company, business owners need to connect with a specialist.
Starting and running a business can be full of unknowns and obstacles. Many entrepreneurs do not know who to turn to when they are experiencing issues related to their business. This is where a business coach is needed.
Not a Life Coach
A business coach can be compared to a therapist for business owners who need help with their business. However, this is not to say that a business coach should be confused with a “life coach”.
Instead of giving advice on how to mend relationships with family members, a business coach helps work on relationship with their business, employees, customers, vendors, and themselves as entrepreneurs.
Business owners spend most of their day focusing on everything outside of the strategy of business. Sitting down with a business coach gives executives a chance to discuss business matters one-on-one with someone who is not directly involved in the company in any way. The coach is a voice and more importantly an ear that can help an owner focus on what should going on for the long-term of the business rather than the crisis du jour.
While some people might think it is enough to simply vent to friends or family when they are experiencing road blocks or other issues relating to the business, there really is no valuable help coming from those people. What is needed is an expert who is business savvy and can aid in problem solving.
So, what does an executive get from a business coach?
Real talk
If a business owner goes to friends or family for help, there is little chance of identifying solutions. Friends are focused on the personal relationship. Family will be careful not to cross boundaries that can hurt that relationship.
A business coach is paid to be real with the business owner and get to heart of an opportunity or a threat. The coach is a trusted advisor and is ready to call a client out in order to help them succeed. Coaches are ready to be open and honest. Coaches ask the tough questions.
No judgment
The business coach is not there to listen and judge. He or she is there to listen and guide. An entrepreneur is free to discuss fears and hopes without worrying about what the coach is thinking about them personally. Often times, coaches and business owners may discover mistakes the company has made or glaring opportunities that are available.
Business coaches don’t critique. Instead they commend the business owner for looking closely and being willing to make change.
Any business owner can benefit from the advice and guidance of an experienced business coach. It is helpful to have that type of relationship with an professional who understands the journey they are on and is ready to assist with overcoming obstacles and moving forward to success.