Networking Now

i might regret this post but what do small business owners think of the likes of business coaches, life coaches, business analysis's/ consultants / advisors etc. Do people think these professions are professions or fads, are they only for large companies who have big budgets, what would you as small business owners feel is a service that would benefit you as owners whether a sole trader or multi staff businesses.

I don't take comments personnally so feel free to be open ( not to nasty though please). i like different opinions as long as there constructive.

I worked in heavy sales for years, training is key.

Forget ability, natural skill etc, anyone can be anything!

So yes, training does work, I guess those that see it as a fad, have never really seen its potential, in this country we are trained and taught from 5-16 years old, and then a further year or two at college, then a few more at Uni, training is the foundation of education and improvement, IMO

Colin

The most valuable advice and guidance is often perceived by SME's to come from peers within their own industry. If they see it coming from someone without real life experience in their industry, it doesn't carry the same weight.

On this basis, I believe that some of the coaching programmes which have a broad outlook intended to cover all industries are of limited assitance to small businesses.

Not particularly constructive, I know, but you did ask...

thank you michael for your response i can understand that view point, but certainly with my style of coaching i coach the individual not the company they own/run, so experience in that field is not as important as my experience with dealing with owners and ensuring they are following there goals and make successfull acheivements. coaches aren't consultants, i have a client base at present which consists of a hair dresser and new fashion company a couple of construction companies, and a boat building company ( which i actually own). I don't know the ins and outs of hairdressing but i do know that the owner does and my job is to make sure she gets to where she wants to get to in her business, by using her knowledge to create the right path for her

Thanks for the response, Colin. From your previous posts I guessed that the approach you were taking was a positive one - and I'm sure it will work for both you and your clients. My commnets were aimed at consultants and coaches in general.

Have a good Christmas.

Thank you Michael, i like to stay positive at all times as i have a positive lifestyle which i try to past on to others. i value all opinions in business, i may not agree with them, but i listen and learn from all. Everyones opinion is always bias to there own particular frame of mind and situation. So i never take things personnaly unless directly commented upon.

kind regards