Tightrope: A good coach can get you back in the game

— -- If you are clear on your goals but not sure of how to reach them, if you are faced with challenges to overcome, if you are having trouble balancing your personal and professional life, or if you are in need of constructive, reliable unbiased feedback, chances are you could use a good coach.

Enlisting a coach can be an important part of your entrepreneurial support system. From what I'm told prices can start at a couple hundred dollars a month and go as high as $10,000 for a large company.

One evening, I watched Charlie Rose interview motivational guru Anthony Robbins. Robbins said one of his clients paid him $1 million a year for coaching services. You probably won't want to spend that much, but there are several other things to consider when hiring a coach.

Find the right coach for you. One size does not fit all. There are a number of different types of coaches ranging from those specializing in small business success to those who help you deal with your teenagers.

Select one who can give you the results you're looking for. Check the coach's ability to deliver. Ask for client references, then call and ask them about their experience. Check on the history and lifestyle of the coach. Have they have done for themselves what they offer to do for you? For example, if you are a single entrepreneur with young children, it helps if your coach has experienced the same thing. This way, your coach can talk your language and be more understanding of the importance of balancing your business life with your personal life.

Where to find a coach. A Web search will bring up thousands of coaching services. However, the best way to find one is through word of mouth recommendation. You can also contact your professional association or organization to see if they have a list of recommended coaches.

How to work with a coach. Coaching is generally done one-on-one, i.e., in person. However, it is possible to get help via phone, e-mail and iPods. One of my favorite on-line coaching websites is morningcoach.com. It's great. You can visit the website and sign up to get a morning e-mail or you can sign up on iTunes for a free daily podcast that wakes you up and gets you going. Coaching sessions can be scheduled anywhere from two to four times a month and last 30 minutes to a full day. In between sessions can usually happen via e-mail.