Every entrepreneur understands that managing a business is both thrilling and demanding. As markets continuously evolve and change, staying ahead of competitors can be a challenge. This is why many business owners consider enlisting the help of a business coach for guidance and support.

If you’re thinking about hiring a coach, there are several factors to weigh when deciding on who may be the best fit.

Expertise and experience

As with any hiring decision, one crucial aspect to look for in a business coach is their experience and skills. You should seek out someone who is well-acquainted with businesses like yours and understands the challenges you encounter as well as the opportunities for growth. Opt for a coach with a strong track record of achievement who can share tangible examples and results they’ve contributed to in their client’s success stories.

Questions to ask:

• What is your experience working with businesses like mine?

• Can you provide some examples of businesses you’ve helped, and the results you helped them achieve?

A proven process

The business coach you’re considering should have a defined and adaptable approach for assisting clients. This process should be customizable to fit your company’s specific needs and objectives, providing a clear path to reaching success.

Questions to ask:

Accountability and support

A business coach’s role involves holding you accountable for your goals while offering ongoing support to ensure you stay aligned. Opt for coaches who are dedicated to your success and will enforce high standards of accountability.

Questions to ask:

• How do you structure check-ins or milestones to monitor client progress?

• Do you have any resources outside of your knowledge that I can leverage?

• How do you provide ongoing support to help your clients stay on track?

A collaborative approach

When selecting a business coach, identify someone who will serve as a partner in your success, working collaboratively with you to craft strategies and solutions aimed at reaching your goals. They should be willing to consider your ideas and feedback, encouraging a collaborative environment.

Questions to ask:

• How do you work with clients to develop strategic plans and customized solutions?

• How do you incorporate feedback and input from clients into your coaching process?

Focused on long-term success

A coach should prioritize aiding you in achieving long-term success, rather than just temporary gains. While ambition is crucial, having the expertise in scaling a business is essential—a business coach should be capable of developing alongside you and your business. If their expertise is limited to specific business sectors or company sizes, they may not be the best long-term fit for you.

Questions to ask:

With that context in mind and an understanding of how to find a business coach that’s the best fit for you and your company, you also need to ask yourself some internal questions in regard to the current state of your business.

What are your top priorities for the next quarter?

This question helps you focus your efforts and ensures you’re prioritizing the most important and timely tasks. By identifying your top priorities, you and your coach can develop a plan to help you stay on track and achieve your goals.

What challenges are you currently facing?

By identifying the specific challenges you’re currently facing, you can work with your coach to develop strategies that will help you overcome them and make sure your business is running smoothly.

Do you have a plan for growth?

Whether you’re looking to explore new revenue streams, grow your team, enter new markets or expand your product or service offerings, it’s important to have a plan of what that road map looks like.

Together with a business coach, you can identify opportunities for growth and develop a plan to help you achieve success.

How are you managing your cash flow?

Managing cash flow is critical if you want to run a profitable business. By discussing your current cash flow situation and identifying areas for improvement, your coach can help you ensure that your business is financially healthy.

How are you measuring success?

You should have a clear picture of what success looks like for you and your business. By identifying key performance metrics and benchmarks, your coach can help you measure and track the progress you are making toward the finish line.

What skills do you need to grow in order to achieve your goals?

As a business owner, you should be continually developing your skills and knowledge. You can work with your coach to uncover areas where you need to improve and develop a plan to help you acquire or further develop the skills you need to grow and succeed.

How are you balancing your work and personal life?

Running a business can consume your life 24/7, which is why it may take extra effort to maintain a balance between your work and personal life. Chat with your coach about your current work-life balance and what you would like to change so you can live a healthy and fulfilling life both professionally and personally.

Choosing the right business coach can be a game-changer for your business. Partnering with someone who has diverse experience, a structured process, a collaborative approach and a commitment to long-term results — while also keeping you accountable and supported — can help elevate your business to the next level.

Not sure where to start? Consider exploring your local Chamber of Commerce or asking trusted colleagues for referrals to business coaches in your area. A great coach might be closer than you think!