Developing clients into advocates


5 Reasons NOT to Hire a Coach – Part 1

When Not to Hire a Coach

From time to time, managers and advisors consider the option of hiring a performance or business coach. Unless the conditions are right, an investment in coaching can be a waste of money. When should you NOT hire a coach?

1. When the advisor or manager is unclear on what he or she wants to accomplish. Without clear objectives, you can’t determine which coach or coaching process is a good fit. Before considering a performance coach, identify specifically the areas you want to strengthen. Then prioritize those in the order of potential payback.

2. When you are in the middle of an intensive skill-building program from the home office. You can’t effectively execute several change initiatives at the same time. Advisors, who are in the first year or two in a new career and involved in an intensive training program, should look first to maximize what is being offered by the home office program.

3. When you are undergoing significant personal change or trauma. If your family member is facing a serious medical challenge or dealing with an issue like divorce, it is extremely difficult to focus your energies on making habit or systems changes in your business. Implementing change and driving business growth require focus and energy. A performance or business coach is not the right resource during times of personal trauma. At these times, a psychologist or family counselor is a better fit. Read more…


5 Reasons NOT to Hire a Coach – Part 2

How to Select a Coach

When selecting a coach, create a checklist of what you want in a coaching relationship. Here are a few criteria to consider.

1. Demonstrated expertise and track record in the areas you want to strengthen.

2. A clear methodology for addressing the areas you want to strengthen.

3. Specific measures so you can track your progress

4. Teaching methodology that fits how your learn and change

5. Clear money-back guarantee

6. Personal style with which you are comfortable

7. Provide options for on-going support. Read more…


Referral Mastery – 20th Anniversary Specials

In appreciation for twenty (20) wonderful years of helping our clients improve their profitablitity through referral generation, we have comprised two (2) extraordinary toolkit packages that will “jump start” and.or dramatically improve your business’ growth through referral generation.

Please enjoy our 20th Anniversary Specials Read more…


Don’t Let E-mail Cut Your Production

While e-mail can enhance your productivity, it can also be a huge distraction trap if you are not careful.  Each incoming e-mail calls for your attention.  How do you keep yourself from getting sucked into the e-mail trap? You must develop guidelines for yourself on when and to what you will respond.  Here are a few suggestions to get you started.

** Set specific times when you will review incoming e-mail.  Some people set 8, 12, and 4 as times to read e-mail.

** During those times, create guidelines on what you will respond to immediately and what later.  For example, you might respond to client emails immediately and company e-mails at the end of the day. Read more…