FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Do Individual or Group Coaching?
I am very much focussed on the individual; and I believe that often groups don’t meet everyone’s needs and is often a false economy. When I do individual coaching, then it’s ‘all about you’ and we cover what you need, skipping the items you don’t want or need. In groups, you don’t get that option and simply have to follow the plan and go at everyone else’s pace. Having said that, individual coaching could be 1, 2 or 3 people from a single organisation; either at once, or separately.
What Industries Do You Service?
I am an expert with service-based businesses, especially trade services, medical and allied health services and professional services. I also work with online stores and offer a Coach the Coach ™ program where I coach other coaches, trainers and consultants.
Is It All Just Talking?
No! I’m very much about action and results. I am what I call a hybrid coach, where I’m coaching, teaching and also doing. Depending on your package and time I’ve available, I can often do more – such as creating budgets, reviewing content or creating a marketing plan. Even on a smaller package, I will guide and support you to ensure you’re on track. My coaching is not a ‘chin wag’ but rather, strategising steps to make change, improve and grow.
Do You Have One Secret Thing Which Makes a Business Successful?
No, it’s what I call the one-percenters. It’s a 100-little-things which make a difference and those 100 things can be different for each client. That’s where my 30+ years of business experience (plus qualifications in Accounting, Marketing, Training & Small Business Management) come in very useful. You get to tap into those quals and expertise – at every coaching session. I should also point out that I’m working not only on practical and real things (money, marketing, sales, processes, team, goals and more) but also on soft skills; which might be time management, motivation, communication, organisation, adaptability, problem solving, negotiation, leadership, confidence, mindset and more.
Is Coaching Always About Making More Money?
Not always, sometimes the client is not hunting for more dollars, but instead wants peace of mind, or improved systems that reduce stress, or perhaps is looking to fix a particular challenge. At times, I’m working with owners and owners-to-be in order to help with generational succession or groom a team member to take over. Yet again, it might be about improvement or digging yourself out of a hole. Often, each business’ needs are different, and so my approach is different. No cookie-cutter approaches here!
Do You Have Different Plans?
Absolutely! I offer a few different options, and for general coaching, there is a Bronze, Silver & Gold package. Reach out; I’d be happy to run through these with you and send you some pricing information.
What About Life Coaching?
Yes, this is something I do also. Most often, it’s part of the business coaching session, but doesn’t have to be – it can be stand-alone life coaching for an individual or leader.
In small business, it’s really hard to separate the business owner from the business and so often what might be considered personal items, often come up in coaching. If it’s an area I really don’t have expertise in (ie psychology) then I will refer/recommend you to someone who can help you specifically, but often having been a business owner, boss, mum and yes, real person, I’ve experienced what you’re going through and can share my tips, suggestions and ideas of practical solutions. I am also an Accredited Mental Health First Aider.
I’m a Small Business; Do I Need Business Coaching?
If you’re happy with how things are going and don’t want to change much, then no, coaching likely isn’t needed at present. However, if you want change – improvement, correction, growth, more money – then coaching is a great option for micro, small and medium sized businesses. Often, small business owners are doing it ‘alone’ and accessing expertise, support and accountability isn’t always easy. I offer multiple packages, so there should be someone to suit your needs.
Be Honest, Is It Truly Worth The Cost?
That’s a really fair question and I totally understand it. I absolutely believe so, but don’t just take my word for it, read the reviews HERE. Let me also briefly share one client’s story. This client came to me ‘super busy’ but when I looked at the figures, the turnover was over $3M but there was a $200K loss. A year later we’d increased sales to $3.5M but what was far more important is that the business showed a $300K profit (on top of an even greater salary for the owner). It’s the bottom line which really matters!
What Geographical Regions Do You Coach?
Whilst based in South East Queensland, I service Australia wide, as well as New Zealand. I’ve been working with clients all over the country for a number of years and have learnt a lot of the intricacies of the different regions. For those remotely based, sometimes there is no coach in town, or only one who may not meet your needs, gossip or not charge fairly, believe they have a monopoly. With Zoom, it’s so easy to work ‘face to face’ and really feel like you’re sitting opposite the person. Sure, no handshakes, but for the time-saving factor and ease to access, it’s an ok trade-off.
How Can I Pay for My Coaching?
I invoice my clients, usually at the beginning of the month and you simply pay your invoice. I used to offer credit card facilities but stopped this as no-one was actually using it.
Are You Like Other Coaches and Have 12 Months (or More) Contracts?
Definitely not! That’s one of my unique selling points; I only ask for notice to stop or pause. Some clients stay 3 months, some 6 and some longer – it’s entirely up to you, your situation and your needs. When I said “it’s all about you” I meant it. By not locking you into long term contracts, this is essentially my guarantee. If you’re not happy, quite simply, you won’t stay.
How Can I Work Out If You’ll Be a Good Fit For Me and / or My Business?
Easy! Click HERE to access my offer of a complimentary (free) sample coaching session. This is not 30 minutes of the ‘hard sell’ but rather a true sample of what I do. It includes a free business analysis. It is subject to availability and suitability.