One of the most critical and often overlooked elements of becoming a successful coach is mastering the art and science of being an entrepreneur and small business person.  Understanding "how" you wish to do your coaching is key to setting yourself up for success.  If you are training to become an "internal coach" employed by an organization or if you are just interested in complementing your current skill set with coaching skills then clearly this information will not apply to you.  However, most coaches who choose this as their passion and profession are entrepreneurs.

While individual circumstances will depend on a number of factors, it is not unreasonable to expect to spend 40% of your time on marketing your business and an additional 20% on adminstration, leaving 40% to perform the actual coaching work itself. In addition, many coaches offer a number of different but related services to complement their "pure" coaching revenue streams.  These services run the gamut from group coaching and workshops to providing coach training to managers or orchestrating offsite retreats. The options are almost endless.

One of the best resources available to you in support of your becoming an entrepreneur is provided (largely free of charge) by "The Business Link", a not for profit agency funded by Provincial and Federal Governments.

Among the things they offer small businesses and entrepreneurs is:

• A toll free business information line for all of Alberta: 1-800-272-9675
• A "walk in" centre at 200 - 639 5th Ave SW, Calgary
• An extensive business resource library
• Information and advice on incorporation, financing, loan programs, Government services etc.
• Small Business Seminars and training sessions
• Guest Advisor Program to connect you with lawyers, bankers, accountants and others
• Monthly networking events
• And much more.

Please contact them at 403-221-7800 and visit their web site: www.canadabusiness.ab.ca

Remember - "Coaching is... Serious Business!