“What are your areas of expertise?”
Professional Catalyst offers growth coaching in a number of arenas, but our foundation is simple: We learn about the foundations of human motivation, and then we transform this information into practical, easy-to-apply solutions for your business.
Our Small Business branch primarily works with people building service-based businesses who sell some products to compliment their service. Most clients also have a day job that they are working around. Your coach has a strong working knowledge of the demands of modern life and how to intentionally build a life that supports your goals.
Backed by a wealth of information about human behavioral patterns, we work together to address the roots of your resistance when developing your business. We also use that knowledge of psychology to give you the tools to approach your market with a solid understanding of your target customer’s desires and drives.
“I’m worried about the pace of coaching. I already have so much to do; how will coaching fit?”
Here at Professional Catalyst we understand the full life. We also understand “busy” and actively reject that excuse. The first thing on the menu is a look at your priorities and existing commitments and activities. Chances are, if you feel like your life is out of control, you’re right! Your priorities and values may not be informing your choices about how to spend your time.
To address this, we go back to square 1:
- Define your values.
- Nail down your priorities.
- Build your life.
“Busy” is not an acceptable reason to avoid your future. Take control of your time with Professional Catalyst coaching.
“I’m worried that I don’t have the drive to accomplish the things I need to do in my small business. How do you hold clients accountable?”
There are a number of ways to accomplish this. In most cases, the entire fee for the coaching package you need is due up front and nonrefundable, except in certain circumstances. This takes advantage of a person’s natural fear of loss.
Also, we ramp up strategically, planning out phases well in advance and breaking them down into bite-sized tasks that will move you forward. This minimizes the overwhelm that can lead to avoidance. We build in ‘down time’ and uncover the specific activities that recharge your internal batteries, and when (not if!) you come up against resistance, we actively work through it together.
As for accountability, sometimes a client’s people-pleasing nature will lead them to accountability naturally – because they want to please the coach. Sometimes we need to take advantage of your social circles and find you an ‘accountability buddy’ – a friend who will not take your shit. You loop them in on our plans and we all work together to get you there.
In extreme cases and when a client is very motivated by status and association, I will recommend that they make a ‘bet’ on themselves and put up collateral – money that will be publicly donated to an ‘anti-charity’ in their name if they don’t complete the goal.
What would you do to avoid the shame of seeing your name on the list of donors to the Nazi party in the US?
A hell of a lot, if you’re anything like me.
Ultimately, our goal is to help you build yourself into a person who does hard things. When you exercise this muscle, it grows. We may need to give you a push, but eventually you’ll get so used to taking the next step that you won’t think of any other options.
“What happens when coaching is over?”
In the last 2-4 weeks of coaching, we build a plan for you to continue on your own. We schedule times for you to check in briefly via email to give an update and request any additional resources or ideas. We also address any concerns you may have about being able to continue on your own. During coaching we will have worked together to create systems in your life that give you a push to do your work. Because coaching takes place for no less than 3 month increments, these systems will have a place in your normal routine. It is up to you to continue on the path, but you will know how to support yourself.
“Is coaching with Professional Catalyst tax deductible?”
Probably, depending on where you live. All expenses for continuing education undertaken to improve business or professional skills are tax deductible in the United States. Coaching undertaken for personal reasons such as health improvement is most likely not deductible unless directly tied to your area of employment (modeling, athletics, etc).
If necessary, billing can be broken into two parts – personal and professional – to allow you to use a portion of your coaching fee as a tax deduction. This will be based on an estimate of percentage of coaching time spent in each area, and final breakdown and receipts will be provided after coaching is complete, or at the end of the year for continuing clients.
“What paperwork do I need to submit for taxes?”
As a small business, you’ll need to send Professional Catalyst a 1099-MISC to report business-related coaching payments that total $600 or more in one calendar year. You’ll then fill in the amount under the ‘business expenses’ section on your small business tax return.