7 Fatal mistakes to avoid when choosing a coach in 2022

How to avoid wasting your time and money

OK, so the likelihood of death is minimal, but the chances of wasting your time and money may be higher than you think. Hiring a coach will change your life and/or business! Check this top 7 list to make sure your life will be changing for the better and not just leaving you disappointed and out of pocket. 

If you’re considering working with a coach as we approach the new year (or anytime really), here are some of the common mistakes to avoid when finding the right one. 



#1  Choosing the wrong type of coach 

There is a 'right' type of coach for everyone but there are many different kinds to choose from. Mindset coaches, business coaches, manifestation coaches, holistic coaches, kick-butt, high energy coaches, stress release coaches, career coaches, female-only coaches, healer coaches, health coaches, coaches for specific skills and the list goes on.

What do you actually need? 

Coaching with compassion and insight, I intuitively get to the depth of things and will challenge you to be your best and hold you accountable. My goal is to get you what you want, on your terms, in a way that works for you. Most of my clients work with me on mindset, empowerment, confidence, clarity and planning, manifestation, emotional mastery and taking life and/or business to the next level.



#2  Choosing the cheapest in town 

All coaching is an investment in you. You must be prepared to invest mentally, emotionally, financially and give it adequate time and energy. Be wary of coaches that do not charge sufficiently for their services. This can be an indication that they either lack experience, confidence to get results or don’t properly value their services. If you are serious about getting the best results from your coaching, do not base your choice on price alone.



#3  Choosing someone 'just like you' 

​Choosing a coach who is at the same place in life as you are, who thinks and acts similarly might be comfortable and easy, but it won't get you results.  They won't be able to challenge you to grow as they haven't achieved it for themselves. If you want to create something more for yourself, look for a coach who has the kind of life or business you want, who's done what you need to do. 

​Don't choose a coach based on them being a lovely person, you're not paying for a new friend.

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#4  Choosing the wrong amount of support 

Be willing to commit to your success. Rome wasn't built in a day and all that! Whilst occasionally a simple tweak in the right direction is all that is needed, most clients require a few months of coaching for sustainable and lasting results, and enough time for them to fully implement. This is simply the nature of being human, we need time to install new habits and reinforce new patterns. 

You can have a breakthrough in five minutes but the follow-through is another story. 
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Say a big, fat yes to your goals and commit to a longer-term coaching package for full support and accountability.



#5  Choosing the wrong style of coaching 

Do you prefer structure or a more individual approach? There are many coaches who genuinely want to help but lack the life experience, empathy or intuition to adapt to each client's unique needs. They follow a set structure to the tee, as provided by the institution they trained with. This can work well for some, but for many, it lacks the personal touch and slows down the transformation process. 

With my clients I use proven tools and processes, choosing the most appropriate and best ones for my client's situation. Sessions are totally customised to suit individual needs, goals and personalities. I like a fluid approach within a proven system, always with an intention to get you to your desired goal on the fastest track possible for you. 



#6  Ignoring Intuition

A great connection with your coach is essential. You have to like and trust your coach for the journey to be enjoyable and to get great results. If you feel it’s a personality mismatch or you don’t feel at ease with them, try another coach.

The coach may also say that they don’t see the relationship being a good fit, and may recommend another coach. It's important that you feel optimistic and excited to be working with your coach. 



#7  Failing to check them out 

Ok, a little stalking 101 goes a long way.  It's important to check out your potential coach. Visit their website, suss out their social media, watch their videos, find out what they're about, what kind of life do they live, what kind of business do they have, what do others say about them? Read their testimonials and get on the phone to have a conversation with them, asking any questions before you sign up. 


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Oh and here's a super important bonus #8 that definitely deserves a mention - Does the coach have a coach? The answer should be a resounding yes! Make sure the coach you choose walks their talk, engages their own coach, fully believes in their own profession and knows first-hand the benefits of coaching.

Has this helped you consider your options for coaching? Did I miss something? Let me know so I can add it to the list. 
If you’re considering coaching in the near future, let’s have a chat. You can book a free 20-minute call with me and I’m happy to answer any questions you may have. 

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Meet Melissa Kay 
A mother, lover of life, personal growth, and good coffee, Melissa has a passion for inspiring and helping others to dream big and take action. She owns and runs Melissa Kay Coaching where she focuses on empowerment and lasting transformation, so her clients can create a life and business they truly love. 

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