How to Choose a Small Business Marketing Coach
Marketing coaching and consulting are skills and education and practice are required in order to master them. But because the industry is still unregulated, anyone can claim to be a marketing coach, no matter if they're trained or not. That's exactly why you have to be cautious when you choose a marketing coach.
Begin by considering the qualifications of your prospect. Select someone who has finished a marketing program or course from a well-reputed school, as well as practiced for many years in the industry. This will give you peace of mind, knowing that you have actually hired a professional who is both knowledgeable and skilled. Certainly, you don't only need someone who works as a Marketing Coach Online; he should also own a small business himself so he can be more effective.
You also need to check the size of your "small" business, then decide on a suitable coach. There are small business marketing coaches who work with executives who have over 100 employees. On the other hand, some work with much smaller business owners or solo entrepreneurs.
Also keep in mind that you need a marketing coach who is both a good coach and a good business person. A coach will boost your enthusiasm, live to your potential and handle your time properly. A good business person will help you create a solid business and marketing plan, and assist you in implementing it. Read about the history of marketing here at http://www.encyclopedia.com/topic/marketing.aspx.
Definitely, you should determine your prospective coach' expert status. Does he teach, write or speak on business-related issues (for example, customer service, strategic planning, online and offline marketing, etc.)? Is he known for his expertise in his field?
A good way to gauge a coach's expertise is by reading testimonials about him. Look for a marketing coach who has experience working with business owners in the same industry or sector as you. However, don't bother with unsigned testimonials. There should be a client name and a company name indicated.
You should as well ask your prospect from http://www.robjordanonline.com with whom you will be working directly. There are some coach who subcontract other coaches. You should know whom you'll be directly dealing with as it is futile to hire a coach who is too distant.
It's wise to pay enough attention to the practical side of hiring a marketing coach. For instance, how available will the coach be? Some coaches only work at daytime, while others also offer services during evenings or even weekends. Also see if you can reach the coach through email in between scheduled sessions. And what about the fees and payments? They must be convenient and transparent.
Finally, do you think you and the coach will make a good team? It's important that you have chemistry because the results of this project will generally depend on that.
