Many independent business owners realize at some point that they need external help to grow their business, but are not sure what type of specialist -consultant or coach- is best suited to deliver the kind of solution they need.
The right amount and kind of support and guidance you ultimately receive will in the end save you a great deal of time and money, as it relates to creating and managing a profitable business.
It doesn?t get much better than this when it comes to having a professional who has ?been there, done that? resulting in him or her actually having built a successful business providing you with the support and expertise you need when you need it.
However, in practical terms, there is a significant difference between the role a business coach plays, as opposed to that of a business consultant. Let?s look at the primary differences.
Business Coach
The main role of a business coach is to work closely with you, help you develop the skills you already possess. In other words, a coach refines and positions you, so you can maximize the abilities and skills you already are equipped with.
From a strategic standpoint, a coach will also help you reach your full potential by brainstorming with you and inspiring you in your quest to reach all of your business objectives.
That?s why most business coaches address mindset issues that limit results. Feelings and attitudes, such as fear and self-sabotage, are oftentimes major stumbling blocks that need to be corrected.
A coach will then follow up with you to make sure you stay on track and are progressing positively in attaining your goals. Looking at the big picture, a business coach is there to help you create a ?plan of action? for your business and to support you step-by-step while you execute on it.
Business Consultant
A business consultant, on the other hand, is the expert who teaches you the business skills you don?t have knowledge of. Your consultant will sit down and analyze your business. Then, he or she will create an action plan you can follow and carry out.
As an expert in business planning and strategy, your consultant will tap into his or her extensive base of knowledge and see in which direction your business is heading, as well as establish the scalability of your operation.
Next, your consultant will work closely with you on how to acquire new customers and how to keep them by building loyalty. And much like a business coach, he or she will work in conjunction with you in regards to the packaging of your products, services, pricing, as well as your sales and marketing programs.
Which One Do You Genuinely Need?
In deciding what services, you need at this moment, the definition below can help you.
?A coach is like a partner, while a consultant is more like an advisor.?
So, when pondering whether you need a coach or a consultant, ask yourself three questions:
1. Optimistically, what and how much do I know about running a business?
2. What is the level of support I require to accomplish the goals I have set for myself?
3. What are the results (make a list) I want to achieve?
After this, start scheduling consultations and be very upfront as to the level of support you?re seeking. Knowing the difference between a business coach and a consultant can save you a lot of time and disappointment.
Contact us if you need a business consultant in digital marketing, web design o content marketing.
About the author: Irina is the founder and managing director of Channel Plus America and Mega DM. She has worked for more than 25 years as a public relations and strategic communications consultant for different global brands. She has created thousands of content pages and specialized in managing digital marketing platforms and tools. She is passionate about producing valuable content that helps her clients connect with their audiences by creating unforgettable experiences. Irina is a great lover of history and the fine arts. Also, she is an animal advocate and has an amazing Pomeranian who joined the family as CHO (Chief Happiness Officer) several years ago.