How to Hire the Right Business Coach (Without Wasting Time or Money)
You’re Working Hard — But You’re Still Stuck
You’ve hit a wall.
Maybe your business is flatlining. Maybe you’re overwhelmed. Maybe you're making money — but burning out in the process.
So you start wondering:
“Do I need a business coach?”
It’s a smart question. The right coach can help you clarify your next move, grow faster, and stop spinning your wheels.
But let’s be honest — the coaching world is full of empty promises, vague frameworks, and people who’ve never owned a real business.
So how do you know who to trust?
This guide breaks down exactly how to evaluate, choose, and prepare for working with a business coach — so you can find someone who actually helps you grow.
Step 1: Know What You Actually Need
Not every coach is right for every business — and not every business owner is ready for a coach.
Before you hire anyone, ask yourself:
What am I really trying to solve?
Do I need help scaling?
Am I overwhelmed and need clarity?
Is my team underperforming?
Am I doing okay but want to grow faster?
Get clear on what success looks like — for you. The best coaching relationships are goal-driven.
Step 2: Evaluate the Coach — Not Just the Website
Most coaches can talk the talk. Few have walked the walk.
Here’s how to dig deeper.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
Have they owned a business themselves? (Not just consulted — owned.)
Do they work with businesses at your stage? (Startup vs. growth vs. scale.)
Do they use a framework — or just talk?
Can they give you real-life examples — not just theories?
Do they listen — or just pitch?
And most importantly:
Do you feel seen and understood — or just sold to?
Step 3: Watch for Red Flags
Some coaches sound great — until you’re locked into a contract.
Here are a few signs to run the other way:
🚩 They guarantee results without knowing your business
🚩 They’ve never hired employees, made payroll, or had skin in the game
🚩 They coach everyone (no niche or specialization)
🚩 Their testimonials are vague or overly polished
🚩 You feel pressure to sign quickly
The coaching relationship is a two-way street. You’re not just hiring — you’re partnering.
Step 4: Prepare to Show Up and Do the Work
A great coach doesn’t just tell you what to do — they guide, challenge, and hold you accountable.
But here’s the part no one talks about:
Coaching only works if you do.
Before hiring a coach, ask yourself:
Am I willing to be honest — even when it’s uncomfortable?
Will I actually implement what we talk about?
Can I commit time each week to the process?
Do I want insight — or do I just want someone to validate my current plan?
Coaching isn’t therapy. It’s forward-focused.
If you’re ready to grow — not just vent — you’re ready for a coach.
Step 5: Choose the Right Fit — Not the Flashiest One
Forget the Instagram followers. Pay attention to the fit.
Look for someone who:
Specializes in businesses at your level
Offers coaching with accountability and structure
Has actual business ownership experience
You connect with and feel respected by
And don’t be afraid to ask for a short discovery call — a real coach won’t shy away from it.
Bonus: Questions to Ask During Your Discovery Call
Here are 5 powerful questions that reveal a lot:
What kinds of businesses have you personally built?
How do you structure your coaching sessions?
What does success look like in our work together?
How do you help with implementation — not just strategy?
What happens when things aren’t working? How do we adjust?
Their answers will tell you more than any sales page ever could.
Final Thought: The Right Coach Should Make You Feel Empowered — Not Dependent
If you leave every call feeling overwhelmed, confused, or like they’re the “hero” of your story — it’s not coaching. It’s control.
The right coach gives you clarity, confidence, and momentum.
You’ll think better. Decide faster. Grow stronger.
And most importantly — you’ll stay focused on what matters most.
If you're ready to take that step, I'm here to help.
Click Here to schedule a FREE consultation with one of the top small business coaches located in Oklahoma City to help you plan your growth strategies.
Or call 405-919-9990 today!