Frequently Asked Question

What is business coaching?

Owners and executives need to make big things happen with limited resources. Business coaching is about leveraging what is already at hand: the strengths of the owner or executive and the company. Both are unique, like fingerprints, and there is power in nuance. We focus on…

  • Crystalizing your aspirations and challenges
  • Writing a practical, easy-to-remember 1-page, 3-year business or executive advancement plan
  • Prioritizing goals and tasks
  • Increasing accountability without bird dogging
  • Driving improvements even in the face of tough circumstances.
  • Shifting behaviors or mindsets that get in our own way

What is the difference between coaching and consulting?

A business coach runs alongside you to get the most out of what you have. It’s like race car driving. You know where the finish line is, but you need to course correct. A coach has insight you might not have at the moment. Consulting is more project based where there is a start, finish and specific outcome. Consulting outcomes tend to add new people and/or new expenses. Execution is most often left to you. Coaching is about leveraging what is there and focusing on execution, getting things done, while adding minimal new expenses if at all.

Does OwnerCEOs offer coaching, consulting or both?

We offer business coaching. At appropriate times, I will brainstorm with you, offering keen insights from years of experience with other CEOs and executives as well as from my own leadership path.

What results have other owners had with coaching?

Although not an all-encompassing list, our clients have achieved such things as reaching to a 3-year revenue goal in 8 months, 17% increase in gross profit in less than 6 months, and achieving 38% of a 3-year sales goal in less than a year of coaching. With a coach, we leverage two brains instead of one. We thrive with a thinking partner looking through our lens with us.

How will business coaching work?

First we go through a business diagnostic where we take a 360 degree walk around the business or your role as an executive. Within specific time frames, we define what you most want and what you most want to avoid in key areas. I then craft a customized program often with 2-3 options so you can select the format that best fits. Typically, clients meet at least twice a month with me for an hour. They also have access to me via virtual coaching (text, email or phone).  We revisit long termed plans every 6 to 12 months. We examine tactical outcomes monthly and quarterly to be sure we are getting where we want to go. We celebrate wins as we go!

Why hire a business coach?

Top athletes, CEOs and other leaders typically hire coaches to get more out of what they are doing now. They know their specialty, yet they can get more out of themselves and their work by having a coach, a thinking partner by their side. Coaching is about adding more insight and advantages to your path.

What are the issues new clients are facing when they hire a business coach?

It varies. Here is a short list of key issues:

  • Catch up with high growth and scale to ensure great service.
  • Increase sales while also gaining better customers.
  • Get better cooperation from people: employees, investors, prospects, customers, peers and more.
  • Hire and retain better people.
  • Tamp down chaos and drama internally and externally.
  • Balance life and business.
  • Expand business or shrink it.
  • Retire in the coming years.
  • Gain accountability.

How long does it take?

Nothing powerful and lasting happens overnight. I often find myself saying, “It’s a ship to turn around, not a sail boat.” Clients typically engage in coaching for at least six months and most even longer as more momentum builds and new opportunities arise. There are no long-termed contracts. Give 30-days’ notice and you’re out.

How much does it cost?

Investing in coaching does not have to break the bank. Depending on the scope of your coaching needs, a program will be defined for you. Our coaching is month-to-month so you are not tied into a specific time frame. Our fees are highly competitive so clients can stay in coaching for as long as they need or want. We offer a complimentary 1 to 1.5-hour diagnostic consult. There is no pressure to buy. In fact, participants typically walk away with new insights or ideas just from the consult. Our goal is to offer a strong return-on-time whether hired or not

What has caused the tremendous growth in the coaching industry?

According to the International Coaching Federation (ICF), coaching has grown significantly for many reasons, among them:

  • Rapid changes are taking place in the external business environment.
  • Companies can no longer achieve results using traditional management approaches.
  • With the growing shortage of talented employees in certain industries, companies must commit to investing in individuals’ development.
  • The disparity between what managers were trained to do and what their jobs now require of them is widening due to increasing demands for competitive results.
  • Companies must develop inclusive, collaborative work environments to achieve strategic business goals and to maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
  • Individuals who have experienced the excellent results of coaching are talking to more people about it.
  • People today are more open to the idea of being in charge of their own lives. Coaching helps them do just that.

“In short, coaching helps individuals and companies focus on what matters most in life and business, and so the industry continues to grow.” – ICF

Do I get customized coaching or “coaching in a box?

One size does not fit all when it comes to owners and their businesses. Although templates and training modules can be helpful, the real power comes from nuance. Each owner and business is like a finger print. Leveraging strengths and advantages gives a powerful leg up in the market place.