A few days ago, I spoke about how to go about finding and hiring a business coach. And while I briefly touched on a few of the different types of coaches, I didn’t go into too much detail for the sake of avoiding reader overwhelm!
As coaches, especially those of us in the business realm, we all follow similar processes in terms of helping our clients find clarity in what they want to achieve. But it’s definitely not a case of “different but same” in everything but the name.
And that can be quite confusing for small businesses owners, in particular. At different stages of your business journey, you might feel the need for guidance, but the type of coach you choose at those stages can make all the difference.
If you want to make a lasting change to something specific in your business, you could go with a small business coach… or you could go with a project coach.
Here’s how to tell the difference so you can make the right choice.
What is a project coach?
A project coach is a specialist who zeroes in on specific projects with clear objectives. They are your go-to person when you have a distinct goal in mind, like launching a new product, rebranding your business, or setting up an efficient workflow.
The core of our work involves breaking down these larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps and phases so you can stay on track and meet your deadlines.
Us project coaches are also excellent problem solvers, offering solutions when those inevitable obstacles pop up during your project – because they always do.
What is a small business coach?
A small business coach, on the other hand, takes a broader view. They focus on your overall business strategy, helping you to develop long-term goals and the leadership skills needed to achieve them.
Their role involves strategic thinking, improving your business mindset, and guiding you to become a better leader. They work with you on various aspects of your business, from marketing and sales to financial planning.
If you’re looking to scale your business or improve your overall performance, a small business coach could be an ideal choice.
Where do they overlap?
Although project coaches and small business coaches are focused on different things, there are some areas where our expertise overlaps.
Both of us want to help you succeed in your business, whether it’s through projects or overall strategy. We both help you identify and overcome barriers, set achievable goals, and develop plans to reach those goals.
For example, a project coach might assist you in launching a new marketing campaign, while a small business coach could help you integrate that campaign into your broader business strategy.
So, which one do you need?
Choosing between a project coach and a small business coach boils down to your specific needs. Think of coaches as tools in a toolbox, each designed for a specific function – a hammer isn’t necessarily better than a screwdriver, because it all depends on what you need to do.
If you have a defined project with clear goals, a project coach like me is likely to be the best fit. We’ll guide you through the steps needed to complete your project successfully.
However, if you’re looking for guidance on how to grow your business, improve your leadership skills, or develop a comprehensive strategy, a small business coach would be better for you.
Just remember that your needs will probably change over time. You might begin with a project coach to handle your immediate project hurdles and then switch over to a small business coach for long-term growth.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. Both types of coaches could play a crucial role in helping you achieve your business goals – it’s just about finding the right support for where you are on your business journey.
One Response