Once you have learned the core coaching skills, here is a sample of some of the work you will do in one of our business and leadership development programs in your second year of studies.
Research shows that coaches who develop a niche are more likely to have a successful coaching practice, long term. Developing a niche is not necessary for beginning coaches, but it is a good idea to have some idea how your strengths and experiences can assist a particular group. Here are steps you can take to create a successful niche for your practice.
- Make a list of “roles” you have had and things you have done in your life. From this list develop a niche or two you might be interested in pursuing
- Ask friends and colleagues what they believe your niche should be and pick one that seems right
- With this niche in mind, ask yourself the following questions:
- How excited to you feel about working with this group/in this area?
- How well does this niche fit with your interests, aptitudes, and personality?
- How easy would it be to become an “expert” in this area?
- How well can this group pay for your services?
- Is this group large enough for you to attract suitable clients?
- Do you know how to reach this group easily (where do they gather, what do they read, etc)?
- Interview at least three people from this niche and ask the following questions:
- What keeps you up at night?
- What goals or aspirations would you love to fulfill?
- What are your most pressing problems?
- Start a free weekly or bi-monthly meeting with a topic of concern for this group.
- At these meetings, give out articles or resources, offer mini laser coaching sessions.
- At the end of the session, tell them you can assist them to meet their goals by signing up for one-on-one coaching sessions with you.
- Collect testimonials and referrals.
