How a Business Coach Can Help you Thrive Professionally
If you're feeling stuck in your career, it may be time to seek external help. A business coach can help advance your professional success in many ways, from helping you chart out a step-by-step plan to providing valuable encouragement. If you've never worked with a coach before, you may be wondering where to start. This guide from Optix Communications covers the basics, from signs you need a coach to how to find one.
Know the signs that you could benefit from coaching
If you're not confident that a coach is right for you, start with a self-assessment. Forbes provides a list of indicators that you could benefit from a business coach, such as not understanding your current role, feeling directionless, or not having clear priorities in your career. A lack of a forward-looking plan can also be a red flag. You want to have an idea of your future goals and how to attain them if you want to maximize your success.
Understand what to look for in a coach
Don't just hire the first business coach you find. Different types of coaches serve different needs. For example, some coaches focus on general career planning, while others focus on niche areas like marketing or leadership. You also want to make sure whoever you hire is qualified. For example, Amazing OBM offers coaching from a certified coach and certified FHS master. Ask to see credentials if you aren't sure about hiring someone.
Find the right coach for you
The best way to find the perfect fit is to talk to more than one person. Most coaches will offer a complimentary conversation to assess your needs and determine if they're a good fit for you. In fact, experts avoid working with anybody who won't talk to you personally before asking for a commitment from you. During your test conversation, look for skills that make a good coach, like being a good listener.
Develop a plan for how to use your coach
Once you've found the perfect coach for your needs, come up with a plan. In your first session, sit down together and discuss what you hope to get out of coaching. This will help them meet your needs. You might want to start by coming up with a general career plan. This template can help you craft one. Start with a big-picture goal, like where you want to be in ten years, then fill in the steps you need to take to get there. BDC offers other tips for leveraging a business coach, like being honest about your weaknesses.
You should also have an updated resume at all times. By updating your resume whenever necessary, you’ll avoid the tedium of having to start from scratch. Also, you’ll be ready and able to apply for any new opportunity that presents itself. There are lots of free tools that can help when it comes to resume templates, but here’s the best solution that can walk you through the whole process.
If you've never worked with a coach before, the prospect may be intimidating. However, taking this first step can be a great way to advance your career. Follow the steps above, and you'll find someone who's a good fit for your needs. Schedule a coaching consultation with Dr. Christie, our Master Coach here at Optix at the link below.
Optix Communications is here to help your business level up. Reach out today to get started!