You had better watch out ... there are some really dangerous business coaches about

Many people wonder about the value of hiring a business coach. I do.

Certainly, there are some great coaches around. I even know a couple. They are worth their weight in gold. However, I suspect the vast majority are pretty average and, unfortunately, a fair number are just rank amateurs.

In fact, someone recently showed me a forum post which had the following message by some shmuck looking to get into the business coaching industry:

"I want to be a business coach. How can I start a new business as a business coach? Can anyone advise me about how to be a business coach?"

Good grief! The guy who wants to be a business coach is looking for advice on how to become a business coach. It really makes my head spin.

The business coaching industry seems to be full of 'interesting' characters. I met one 'Business Coaching Expert' recently who explained that the only reason she entered the field was that she couldn't find a job.

Good grief x 2! The woman who can’t find a job gives up the search process to coach people about their business. What’s she going to do? Advise people to walk away from their businesses?

So if you are looking for a business coach it really does pay to be wary as there clearly are some dodgy operators running about drumming up trade.

Part of the problem is that cost of entry is pretty cheap and operational costs are low too. Combined with high charges and it is easy to understand how the potential profit margins appeal.

Recently there has been a surge of courses supposedly teaching people how to become business coaches. Some even claim you do not need business experience to become a business coach. I have no idea how that can work. Can you imagine someone claiming to be a Doctor and offering to perform heart surgery on you, yet they have never studied medicine and have no experience in an operating theatre?

Good grief x 3!

How to protect yourself

So, if you are looking for a coach, make sure the coach you choose has experience in the specific area you need.

For example:

- If you are starting a business, make sure your coach has started one or more businesses before. (Of course if you are starting a business in Australia just contact Business Switch as starting people in business is all we do).

- If you want to build sales, make sure your coach has specific and detailed sales experience.

- If you want to trade internationally, make sure your coach has international trade experience.

- If you are selling a business make sure your coach has experience selling a business. 

Get the gist?

The easiest way to check is to do a Google search on the person. If they have had any sort of business career there will be an online record of their specific achievements. Perhaps a media reference, a profile or some other document that shows they know their stuff.

If you want further supporting proof, do a reference check on the coach.

Finally, trial the coach. Never lock yourself away under any longer-term contract without being absolutely confident your coach has the knowledge and experience to deliver results.