Above Header

Coaching For Online Entrepreneurs

This post was most recently updated on July 28th, 2016

GOT A COACH?Just about all online entrepreneurs can benefit greatly from coaching.

The fact is, though, most of them don’t get the help they need.

They usually intend to.

They know they ought to.

It’s the next thing on their short list of to-do’s.

But somehow, it never happens. 

I have found among the majority of my clients, the longer they waited to get coaching, the longer they put off achieving success as online entrepreneurs.

So why all the procrastination on such a pivotal piece to your online business?

Here are some of the main reasons.

  • They think it will be too expensive
  • They don’t have a good enough grip on their business to even know what kind of coaching they need
  • They wouldn’t know what to ask even if they had coaching
  • They don’t know how long they need coaching for
  • They don’t know where to look for coaching

I know many newbies who make the mistake of working their online business for months, sometimes even years… trying to do everything themselves. This rarely works out too well.

It certainly doesn’t work very quickly.

I consider quality coaching to be the single most important thing to getting you past the obstacles standing between you and online business success.

At some point in time, if you are a serious entrepreneur, you will need to find somebody to take a personal interest in taking you to the next level.

It doesn’t need to be the most incredible guru personality in the world.  But it does need to be somebody who has been where you are now, has made the mistakes that are probably holding you back at this moment.

And it needs to be somebody who has overcome the very obstacles that are slowing you down in your progress.

Major corporations hire consultants to help them accomplish things that they don’t have the knowledge or expertise to.

Accomplished actors, world class athletes and even presidential candidates hire coaches to help them succeed in ways that they know they cannot purely on their own.

So, when you come to understand that your business will probably not advance very far, or very fast, without some assistance, here are some of the options you might explore for coaching.

 

Big Team Coaching

Some people like to go with something I call big team coaching.

This model usually features lots of general training information downloaded on a membership site that you pay a monthly fee to access.

The downloaded information is typically “drip-fed” on the site.  In other words, you don’t often get immediate access to it all.  You get little pieces at at time, along with some sort of ongoing training modules.

This kind of training can work nicely if you’re really a newbie.  You probably don’t know much about getting your internet business off the ground at this point, and you can get a lot of general information this way. It will get you started on your path to learning the business.

It can be quite costly for a boot-strap newbie, though, especially if you’re teaming up with a high-profile guru coach.  You’ll be paying, not just for their information stockpile, but for their name-recogntion and big advertising budgets. 

In addition, you’ll usually get stuck with the bill for the guru’s army of affiliates who act as middle men or women, taking their commission for getting you on board (also known as an affiliate sale).

 

Small Group Coaching

Small Group coaching is similar to the Big Team approach, except it’s usually much more expensive.  That’s because the “small group” usually involves more individual attention than the Big Team.

A Small Group usually “meets” periodically on (Skype, Google Hangout, etc.) for general training and to address one another’s individual concerns,

Being involved in the Small Group will usually gain you some sort of “hot seat” privileges.  That means, you can present your particular situation to the group during a webinar or other online type of meeting.  The group joins in to advise you you , as well as the folks leading the Small Group.

Say you don’t know if your blog design is optimizing your message.  You can “hot seat” your URL, everybody gets to look it over in real time, and give you advice. 

Sometimes only the leader will offer you a critique.  Either way, it’s a common method for giving people individual coaching on a limited, rotational basis, while other members learn from observing the interaction.

Other than this, the Small Group is probably similar to the Big Team approach.  You’ll have access to recorded trainings and probably professional association with other members via a forum, private Facebook group or something similar.

Again, though, because of it’s exclusivity positioning, Small Group coaching is usually quite a bit more expensive than the Big Team. For this reason, it’s probably a better choice for intermediate to advanced entrepreneurs.

 

Individual, One-on-One Coaching

This is usually the most expensive type of coaching, but also the best.

That’s why only advanced marketers go this route.

Individual coaching means you get to speak directly with your coach.  This can be set up on Skype, telephone, hangout or whatever.  In any case, it’s strictly one-on-one, personal, individual coaching.

To keep the price down, some folks choose against coaching with one of the big name marketers, and look for coaches who have far less visibility, but may be equally capable.

I personally believe that extremely high-priced, guru coaching is the wrong way to go for cash-strapped, struggling entrepreneurs. 

You can find excellent coaching from very capable people for far less. 

In fact, some of the ones I know are incredibly talented.  They are often more focused on helping you move your business forward than the gurus, because they are in the process of trying to establish a bigger reputation.  Your success will help them do this.  So you really are in a partnership of sorts with some of these coaches.

Whether you buy in at the most expensive level, or a more intermediate one, individual coaching can be expensive.

If you don’t really know where you’re going with your business, or where you’re heading with your marketing, this kind of coaching will probably not be as helpful as group coaching.

Individual coaching usually requires that you know the right questions to ask to make the cost feasible.  If you have only a vague idea of what you’re trying to accomplish online, you’ll probably find more value with group coaching that offers membership sites and recorded training that you need in order to build a foundation for your endeavors.

Coaching for Online Entrepreneurs

Dynamic Coaching

For the most part, the coaching groups I’ve described above deliver static information.  It was created once and gets delivered in a drip-feed flow to appear as if it is fresh and new… which it usually is not.

Of course, it’s easier for the vendor to automate a process like this than to actually create fresh training and information on a regular basis.  The static coaching model is designed to be automated and push button.  This is strictly for the ease and convenience of the vendor.

It is quickly dates itself, though, despite the perception of being continually updated to keep current with the rapidly changing world of the internet.

A far less common type of coaching is what I call “dynamic coaching.”  It develops spontaneously and continually, reflecting the living, breathing world.  It is not based on stockpiling trainings and information, but on giving both group and individual assistance as well as formal training to  its members.

I call it dynamic because it is not rooted primarily in recorded information and automated processes.  Trainings are always new, fresh and up to date.  In that way, it is dynamic coaching because you’re getting the most up to date, “what’s working now” kind of training.

My own coaching product, the Whirlwind Success “VIP Club”… is what I refer to as dynamic coaching.  It’s not only unique in being dynamic rather than static, though.

It even includes individual, one-on-one coaching sessions, couple with immediate and ongoing personal assistance.

I invite you to check out the VIP Club and see if it’s a fit for you.  Because it is currently in it’s pre-launch phase, it’s extremely affordable for the time being.

Coaching for Online Entrepreneurs

Whatever type of coaching you decide is right for you, I strongly encourage you to avoid trying to go it alone.

Even if you don’t mind re-inventing the wheel, it will truly cost you a lot of time and money.

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced online entrepreneur, marketer or blogger…  true professionals know how to leverage coaching and consulting into fast, high level success.

Trying to learn and implement everything yourself is counter-productive.  It’s not the best use of your time or money.  Most of the folks I know that have gone the “lone ranger” route, end up keeping their day job.

How important do you think coaching is for online entrepreneurs?

Have you considered bringing some level of professional coaching into your online business?

Which model do you think best fits your needs as an online entrepreneur?

I’d love to hear from you in the comments below, and of course, always love to see your social shares.

Donna Merrill
Donna is a well known blogger and creator of "Blogging Magic" - an intensive guide to blogging. "Blogging Magic" is for beginners who are trying to figure out how to bring their blogs to life with tons of visits, comments and social media interaction. It's even for advanced bloggers looking to reach new levels of authority and engagement with their audience.

, , , , , , ,

83 Responses to Coaching For Online Entrepreneurs

  1. Amit Kumar
    Twitter:
    September 23, 2014 at 1:24 pm #

    Coaching For Online Entrepreneurs is just like a trend in these days but it’s fruitful too.
    For all those people who want to do something really extraordinary along with the profession they need to understand all the term in very details.

    Since, all things can’t be learn by reading articles so joining article a very helpful way. Thank you so much madam @Donna Merrill for sharing this detailed article with us. I really enjoyed your writing style.

    Keep writing 🙂
    Amit Kumar recently posted..Top 5 Online Shopping Sites in India to Buy Pen DrivesMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 24, 2014 at 3:47 pm #

      Hi Amit,

      Thank you for visiting this post. Yes, we can learn from many different types of things on the internet, but when you get really serious about something and want your business to boom, coaching is the way to go!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Learn To Blog Your BrandMy Profile

  2. sean
    Twitter:
    September 21, 2014 at 3:23 am #

    I definitely beginning to think this way now, of having a coach/mentor in your life to progress.

    At the moment i just learn from all the old greats wisdom from books, audible videos and courses, which i find has a wealth of knowledge to learn from
    sean recently posted..Vision Boards – Why YOU need one!My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 21, 2014 at 11:19 pm #

      Hi Sean,

      There is a great deal of knowledge you can obtain from the old greats wisdom from books, videos and courses. I have done them all too!

      It wasn’t until I had my “perfect goal” in mind that I needed to hire a coach. Actually a few of them. Yes, it was expensive, but to me it was a wise investment and now my ROI is growing.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Take The Next StepMy Profile

  3. Jenni Ryan
    Twitter:
    September 19, 2014 at 8:15 am #

    I have paid for coaching several times and some has been helpful and some has not but I always willing to do whatever it takes including coaching. Great blog and will keep checking your blog since you obviously get a lot of traffic and do it well.

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 19, 2014 at 2:29 pm #

      Hi Jenni,

      Welcome to my blog!

      Yes we all go through that process where some coaching and training programs fit and some don’t. It all depends on where we are and what goals we need to accomplish.

      Glad to see you here,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Take The Next StepMy Profile

  4. Kyle Holcomb
    Twitter:
    September 15, 2014 at 10:49 am #

    This was a great blog and I fully agree with the content that you wrote. I have invested in several books and a couple training systems that I am actively a part of. I think that getting some personalized coaching to my specific needs could make a huge difference in the profits that I make each and every month. I also watched the video and read all of the content on you “VIP Club” page. You offer a tremendous amount of value and a really low cost! I would like to talk to you more about your club to see what you suggest with my current situation. Thank you for sharing!

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 19, 2014 at 2:28 pm #

      Hi Kyle,

      Welcome to my blog.

      Yes, we do have to invest in books, training systems and the like. But when we are ready to really push our business forward, have that clear idea of where we want to be, then it is time to have one to one coaching, or a service such as our VIP club.

      Good to know you liked it.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Take The Next StepMy Profile

  5. Andy Lockhart
    Twitter:
    September 14, 2014 at 10:09 pm #

    Donna

    Great article, it is so important to have a coach if you want to be top of your game. Every profession has them so why wouldn’t you in Network Marketing.

    Thanks for sharing.

    Andy
    Andy Lockhart recently posted..12 Ways to Get More Subscribers to Your BlogMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 19, 2014 at 2:26 pm #

      Hi Andy,

      So true, to be on the of the game one does need a coach. Every profession has them!

      That being said, we need them too.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Take The Next StepMy Profile

  6. Sue Bride
    Twitter:
    September 14, 2014 at 11:56 am #

    I haven’t formally got into coaching but do offer free support to individuals who need help.

    I’ve joined various mass coaching programs and just took the plunge to invest in an advanced program but partly to become an affiliate. Apart from when I was starting out I’ve gained more from smaller group coaching where more individual help is given.

    One size doesn’t fit all. Training such as your Whirlwind Success is great. I’ve watched your WS recorded webinars, which are really useful and will eventually make it to a live training session. 🙂
    Sue Bride recently posted..Very Easy WordPress ShortcodesMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 15, 2014 at 12:11 am #

      Hi Sue,

      Helping others is a great start to coaching! It’s a great way to gain experience.

      I know what you mean by joining smaller groups…whenever I have joined small groups or one to one coaching I got more out of it too.

      Yes, one size does not fit all!

      I’m glad you like the trainings on Whirlwind Success! Remember we do have a one to one session whenever you are ready. Just get in touch with us (you know how) and we can set up a G+ or Skype session to plan out some strategy.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  7. David Merrill 101
    Twitter:
    September 14, 2014 at 11:53 am #

    If anyone knows about coaching, it is you, Donna.

    I know you’ve been coaching people for many years, both in your private consulting practice and in your latest online mentoring business.

    Beyond your expertise, some people just have a natural gift for communicating with people in a special way… a way that makes them feel better about themselves, and truly gives them the hope for better things, and the encouragement to take the steps they need to attain them.

    And, most of all, you always make people happy that they spent time with you, whether it was an hour or 15 minutes.

    All the different coaching models you outlined work for different people on different levels, but they’re only as good as the coach herself.

    That’s why you always have such a loyal following.
    David Merrill 101 recently posted..List Building With Video | Introducing Breakthrough VideoMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 15, 2014 at 12:06 am #

      Hey David,

      Thank you for your kind words, especially here with your comment. You always told me that I make people feel good! Hey, you would know lol.

      You, along with others tell me that I have a natural way of communicating with people and I appreciate that.

      It is one thing when we talk about it, and another when you write it down here in my comment section.

      I appreciate YOU,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  8. Donna Merrill
    Twitter:
    September 14, 2014 at 10:45 am #

    Hi Dexter,

    When we first get into blogging it saves so much time and energy to be coached. I went through that pain lol.

    As for my comments…I usually get a lot of good ones. Thanks!


    Donna
    Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  9. Dexter Roona
    Twitter:
    September 14, 2014 at 10:03 am #

    Nice post this and your getting a stack of comments…. i have pretty much coached myself really to where i am and i know i could of used some fast tracking when i first started regards Dexter

  10. William Earl Amis Jr III
    Twitter:
    September 13, 2014 at 11:23 pm #

    Donna, you have put it the straight forward way!

    I understand this and have supported so many with challenges. They, can learn about continued support vs. short term. Either way, we all need people to move to the next stage.

    As in business growth and development. Get with people who have and are doing well. Why ask someone about purchasing a home, when they never have ownership experience? It is just the same in getting the right coach.

    Always, complete due diligence on the person and get some feed back from people who have experienced their services. One advantage, it will only cost you time and not money for completing this vital step.

    Thank you Donna for the years of support. We all should be grateful for your guidance now and in the future.
    William Earl Amis Jr III recently posted..Be A User, Not A Sales Person?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 14, 2014 at 10:21 am #

      Hi William,

      I like the analogy you have given about asking someone about purchasing a home. It is very true and you put this post into perspective in that one sentence…thank you!

      Yes it is vital to give people more time than they ever expected. I’ve done so for years with my consulting business off line. Not everyone can stick to a time line. It all depends on the person I talk to.

      When I hear the anxiety in their voice that they may be taking too much of my time..I say WAIT… our consultation may be for one half hour…but you need more…I cannot charge you for that….I am making a decision so slow down…lol

      Thank you William!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  11. Mi Muba
    Twitter:
    September 13, 2014 at 2:05 pm #

    Hi Donna

    Wonderful post with detailed description of each way of coaching to provide a wide variety of options to those who want to adopt this opportunity.

    Online entrepreneurship is not a thing of art one can learn it with practice or something in his gene make him expert of it as we see several great singers were by birth singers or many painters created their first painting when they were kids. Online entrepreneurship is a very formal profession with several permanent principles and a lot of changing dynamics. So we can’t say it can be learnt by any DIY basis. Yes it’s a little knowledge can be acquired on do-it-yourself basis but not the expertise.

    All the four options you mentioned are best fit for a person to person according to his requirement, his previous background and his business objectives.

    Thanks for sharing a very informative post.

    Have a nice weekend.
    Mi Muba recently posted..3 exotic styles to massively promote your blog post for freeMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 14, 2014 at 10:15 am #

      Hi Mi Muba,

      Indeed, online entrepreneurship is a formal profession with many principles and constant change. If one is trying to DIY, then there will be a little knowledge or worse, too much from every direction which will lead them to overload.

      Yes, the above are many different ways of coaching and it is up to the individual to choose the one that meets their requirements.

      We are all unique and come online with various experience. Coaching must be chosen wisely, and not because it is “the latest and greatest.”

      Thank you for coming by,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  12. Leslie Denning
    Twitter:
    September 13, 2014 at 11:58 am #

    Hi Donna. I’ve been in several coaching classes over the years – group, individual, and automated. Never would have thought of dynamic marketing. What a great idea!

    I’m very tempted to sign up, but I’m working with three coaches now. I just like to keep learning! I’m very confident that you will be able to help lots of people on the path to their dreams.

    All the best,
    Leslie
    Leslie Denning recently posted..Further Niche Research for Your ProductMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 14, 2014 at 10:10 am #

      Hi Leslie,

      Like you, I like to keep on learning too. Wow…working with three coaches? Girl you are amazing!!! Because David and I are a team, he was working with some coaches and I others. Sometimes it takes a bunch of learning curves in order to produce a goal.

      Thanks for your support,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  13. Lillian De Jesus
    Twitter:
    September 13, 2014 at 8:32 am #

    Hello Donna,

    You’re absolutely right! Every online entrepreneur needs a coach. I learned that about 6 months into my journey. I have had a few and it is best to choose one in your niche. I love my coach! She’s awesome and she does do dynamic coaching where we’ve done one-on-one coaching and I’m part of three of her groups on Facebook and LinkedIn. The groups provide even more coaching at no cost. This was a great post and hope others will look for a business coach for their success.

    Take care,
    Lillian
    Lillian De Jesus recently posted..How To Use HitTail For Your Business BlogMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 13, 2014 at 11:04 am #

      Hi Lillian,

      It is good to know that you learned that having a coach is important in only 6 months into your journey. Some bloggers will take a few years to figure that one out lol!

      Also it is great to be part of groups..I’m in one of the ones your in too! We do learn a lot from them.

      Thank you for coming over to my blog!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  14. Sherman Smith September 13, 2014 at 1:30 am #

    Hey Donna,

    Thanks for pointed this out. I haven’t realized that there are different levels of coaching, which I should’ve known. I actually paid for a big group a couple of years ago. It was a little over $400 which I believe is not too bad, but I learned quite a big.

    That same year, I another coached that I know of charged over $10K for you to come to his house for the weekend. I thought wow! Some people must be either rolling in the dough and just adamant about becoming successful with their business that they’ll find ways to pay that much. I’ve always wondered if coaches that charge this much would teach them the same thing as with a more inexpensive coach.

    Thanks for letting us know about the different levels of coaching again! I hope you’re having a great weekend!
    Sherman Smith recently posted..Paying Homage To Some Influencial BloggersMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 13, 2014 at 11:02 am #

      Hi Sherman,

      Yes, David and I both were coached from the mid range price of $400 to the one on one Guru that was 6K.

      Then there were those folks I knew – old blogging buddies that switched up from blogging to marketing and we bought into that too.

      I could go on and on, but for the life of me, I cannot remember how many there were. David had been coached by some people and I with others. So together, we could put our first product out “Blogging Fever” to teach newbies as well as seasoned bloggers to get traction.

      We then created our “dynamic” coaching at a low price just for now…so those can come in and be grandfathered at that price point. It is an ongoing one. Keeping things new and fresh because things on the internet change and we need to teach our clients the new trends.

      Yes, you will be surprised how many people out there will spend the big bucks for coaching. We did and in comparison to others, we learned the same darn thing.

      When coaching with a “guru” one has to consider their overhead. They have a team they hire, and that is why you are paying the 10K. There are others, that are doing it from their home office with no team, and have less of an overhead. That’s where one can get a better deal.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  15. Barbara Charles
    Twitter:
    September 12, 2014 at 10:55 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    One of my biggest fears is getting the right coach. I know it’s the right way to go, but have always been afraid of the big wigs and not getting my money’s worth. I’m so glad you explained everything here.

    I like the dynamic coaching. Seems like that has all the components of everything I need. Great details and just what I needed to know. I’ll be in touch for your pre-launch. Very interested.

    You’ve come such a long way and now are coaching and I’m very interesting working with you.
    Talk to you soon.
    Barbara
    Barbara Charles recently posted..A Tribute To 9-11My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 13, 2014 at 10:54 am #

      Hi Barbara,

      I’ve been through the very expensive “guru” coaching, the mid range coaching, but it was not until David and I hired a one on one coach to produce our product (which was quite the pretty penny lol) that we started to gain traction.

      Honestly, it wasn’t easy! But we worked on it for 30 days and nights straight. Then the marketing part: OMG…so many different coaches.

      But at the end of the day, the best learning edge for us was to apply each and every method we have learned. Oh yes, mistakes were made, but we fixed them, learned from them. Now we are focused on production.

      Yes, we both came a long way, but behind the scenes of blogging and social media, we were working on this for two years.

      So here we are lol!

      Thanks so much!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  16. Chery Schmidt
    Twitter:
    September 12, 2014 at 6:40 pm #

    Hello Donna, What an Awesome Article..When I first got started online I joined a company that talked alot about coaching yet they never really provided any real coaching HUM??

    I did stick with this company for 14 months, I guess it was at this point I decided I needed to go it alone. I was tired of spening money and not getting any kind of realy help..

    Well another year went by and I was no further ahead then I was when I first started out, It was at this point that I found me a real coach and he helped me in so many way that I dont even know where to begin.

    He taught me how to let go and start again, to learn from my mistakes and Yes to BE ME!

    I loved your video Donna, You and David are doing an Awesome Job, I am truly blessed to have met you and call you friend..

    Thanks for sharing..Chery :))
    Chery Schmidt recently posted..Manifesting More of What You Want With Your LifeMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 13, 2014 at 10:49 am #

      Hi Chery,

      I think most of us started that way and that’s why I just don’t want anyone else to begin blogging and marketing like I did…A long time with no direction…no personal coaching!

      Thank goodness you found someone to set you in the right direction. Yes, we must be told to learn from our mistakes…being ourselves. Sometimes we just need “permission” from someone else that we hire to do so. Guess it is easier said than done lol.

      That’s why coaching is a must in this industry. Which ever way or who you are attracted to…go for it…because it does make a huge change in business.

      Thanks for liking our video Chery! and I too am blessed to have you as a friend.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  17. Moumita Ghosh
    Twitter:
    September 12, 2014 at 8:48 am #

    Hello Donna,

    Thanks for sharing such an informative article. You have discussed all things which are flashed in mind of a new entrepreneur when he/she search a coaching. I basically learn from Google and also ask questions to other bloggers when I face a problem in blogging work. They help me lots. I am also searching a coching for learning technique to make money online through a blog. Thanks again for sharing these information.

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 12, 2014 at 11:36 am #

      Hi Moumita,

      There is plenty of free information out there that can help you. When it comes to other bloggers and social media, there is always someone there that can give you help.

      I understand how confusing it can be to try to make money through your blog. But know this: It is possible, but there is also the marketing edge that you have to learn. Your blog is a good way to do some native advertising and also to have an optin box on the sidebar of you selling something.

      But the other side of it is marketing. So, I would say that if you are trying to find out information without a coach or a coaching system, keep your eyes out for marketing techniques.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  18. Nathaniel Kidd
    Twitter:
    September 11, 2014 at 11:03 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I like your points on why most people do not get coaching. For me I also thought great coaching would be too expensive and I also was not sure what I would get out of coaching because I was not quite sure what questions I should ask a coach.

    I am a member of your VIP club and I definitely can attest to what you call dynamic coaching. I have joined other coaching membership sites and most of the coaching is static and very impersonal. What I love about your coaching is it is engaging, personal, well priced, really down to earth, and most importantly it is relevant to TODAY and not techniques that use to work.

    Thank you again for offering such a wonderful service!
    Nathaniel Kidd recently posted..How to Reduce Your Cable BillMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 12, 2014 at 11:32 am #

      Hi Nathaniel,

      Yes, there are many ways people coach. I am so glad you are with us on our VIP Club. It was such a pleasure to talk to you at first and answer questions you had.

      I’m glad you like our dynamic coaching because it is engaging, personal, well priced, and of course, we are down to earth kinda folks.

      Yes, we set it up so it is relevant to TODAY’s Techniques and not ones that used to work because the internet changes rapidly. What has worked in the past is not working now.

      This is why we set it up that way for ongoing information. Glad you are part of our team and remember if you are ever stuck on something..contact us. We are here for you my friend.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  19. Gladys
    Twitter:
    September 11, 2014 at 8:46 pm #

    Hi Ms. Donna
    Such an informative post!

    I love how you broke down the different types of coaching.

    I am familiar with all of them. Through my coaching business, I have events for group coaching, where I coach young people from ages 10-13. I help them with their vision boards which includes some of their goals.

    Currently I have clients and their coaching is One and One. These are all local in the area which I reside.

    I totally agree, everyone needs coaching.

    Ms. Donna,ni love your picture.

    Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience.

    Gladys
    Gladys recently posted..Consistency Consistency ConsistencyMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 12, 2014 at 1:12 pm #

      Hi Gladys,

      As a coach yourself, you know quite well all the different types of coaching. That is so wonderful that you coach such young people 10 – 13 with their vision boards helping them with their goals.

      When taught at that age, it will be so beneficial for them as they grow. What a joy that must be for you to be a part of that age group.

      Coaching one to one is awesome. I know how well you can do that just by knowing part of “your story” and you are a warm open hearted person.

      Blessings,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  20. Arleen
    Twitter:
    September 11, 2014 at 11:27 am #

    Donna- First I want to tell you I love your new picture. I always wanted to lift you up in your thumb nail so I could see all of you.

    Before I started on my new blog site a year ago, I hired a coach to help. It was the best thing I ever did. I can’t stress enough the importance of trying to continue to grow your business is not do it alone. Yes price always plays an important role, but if you want to be successful, my suggestion is to go to experts like you. The money you spend upfront will be recouped two fold. There is an old saying “You have to spend money, to make money.”

    I wished I had met you first. Your enthusiasm for life is catching.
    Arleen recently posted..Win Your Clients Love With a Few Simple StepsMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 11, 2014 at 11:50 am #

      Hi Arleen,

      Thank you about my new picture! It took a while to find a good photographer and also I had too many different pictures of me all over the place. I needed conformity. Finally..I got around to that to do and here I am!

      You summed it all up when you quoted “You have to spend money, to make money.” This applies to just about anything. Off line, online, wherever we want to build a business.

      We need a mentor, a coach, along the way of our journey to success!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  21. Kumar Gauraw
    Twitter:
    September 11, 2014 at 9:26 am #

    Hi Donna,

    All famous sports stars have coaches while average people who play on streets have no coaches. Business tycoons have mentors while average entrepreneur is driven by society in general.

    Average people remain average because they are driven by opinions of other average people just like themselves. On the other hand, success driven people to understand this principle, associate and learn from those who are already there and they want to be. Success driven people have mentors/coaches.

    Congratulation on your WhirlWindSuccess program and as far as I am concerned, I know for sure that people who are looking for help online cannot go wrong with you. David and yourself have a tremendous experience as entrepreneurs and anybody can draw energy from that knowledge and experience and move on in their business.

    I highly encourage people to take your program seriously and take your business to the next level.

    Regards,
    Kumar
    Kumar Gauraw recently posted..5 Reasons To Create Your Own Products To Succeed As A BloggerMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 11, 2014 at 11:24 am #

      Hi Kumar,

      Thank you for that analogy! If one is a successful driven person, one will hire a coach. Just like an athlete!

      Mentors and coaches are a must if one wants to be successful at anything! This is why coaching is a must do for an online business.

      Thank you so much for your kind endorsement of our WhirlWindSuccess VIP program. We haven’t done a launch yet…still in beta form, but I wanted to give my readers and friends a chance to be grandfathered in at a low cost at this time.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  22. Kathleen McCormick
    Twitter:
    September 10, 2014 at 4:30 pm #

    Thanks, Donna, for this very useful post. I always think I have to do things on my own! I got used some plug and play videos to set up my website 9 months ago and have learned by trial and error. Your descriptions of the types of coaching, the rationale for coaching and getting what you need when you need it have made things clearer to me. I appreciate this clarification…

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 11, 2014 at 10:53 am #

      Hi Kathleen,

      It is so great to know that the descriptions I have given made things clearer for you! Oh boy, if I had to do everything on my own, I think I will still be writing my blog with no visitors. lol.

      Deciding on which coaching method to do to keep up to date with your online business is mandatory because if there is one thing we can count on…it is the internet always changes.

      Thank you so much for stopping by,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  23. Nisha Pandey
    Twitter:
    September 10, 2014 at 3:46 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Nice topic shared. Coaching is for online entrepreneurs is really important. Because, they need to expertise in the their niche/business. Coaching can give them better understanding and promoting with their business.

    I would like to add internet marketing/affiliate marketing course to my online business. It is helpful for bloggers to establish their blog and earn some bugs.

    Thanks for sharing.

    Have wonderful day!
    Nisha Pandey recently posted..Get Your Blogging Career on Track with Community Feature @Aha!NOWMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 11, 2014 at 10:50 am #

      Hi Nisha,

      Indeed, coaching is a must for online entrepreneurs! It is something that never ends, as we evolve in our business and as the internet is always changing. We need to stay up to date with our online business, just like any other business.

      Take a teacher for example, they are always going to required seminars to learn new ways of teaching their students. Lawyers also are required to take seminars to keep up to date with new laws changing.

      So, are we, as internet entrepreneurs the same? We sure are.

      I’m sure you will be great at teaching a course!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  24. Deborah Tutnauer, MEd, MSW
    Twitter:
    September 10, 2014 at 12:59 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Great thorough overview of coaching options for Entrepreneurs.

    Many do get stuck between that proverbial rock and hard place when balancing the desire for coaching with the cost and alternatives. That alone can cause people to do nothing, or to invest in a program that hit them with good marketing when they were at a low point – and then to find out it was not a good fit.

    As a business coach (and former psychotherapist), I have come to conclusion that you must do your coaching with someone you resonate with and who offers some type of one-on-one or one-on-group live interaction. I myself have purchases many “programs” over the years that I go through on my own, or get dripped content that was pre-recorded. There is value in it – yet I’ll bet if you surveyed entrepreneurs out there as to how many of these programs they purchased vs. how many they actually complete, the actual would an abysmal number.

    Your concept of dynamic coaching is one I too embrace in a similar fashion in my work. At the very least, I want people searching for mentoring and coaching to also experience an interaction with their potential coach and be able to ask questions. Thus, strategy consults are well worth searching for too when searching for an ideal fit.

    Thank you for a thought provoking post Donna.

    Warmly,
    ~Deborah
    Deborah Tutnauer, MEd, MSW recently posted..4 Reasons Why your WHY Won’t Make you Successful in your Entrepreneur BusinessMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 10, 2014 at 10:23 am #

      Hi Deborah,

      I too have purchased those pre-recorded programs. Some I sucked up like a sponge and then took action on it. Others, well, they just fizzled out somewhere on my computer. I believe that a pre-recorded program works only if the buyer wants it to. I’m sure that some never get around to it.

      The concept of Dynamic Coaching is one that I like to do. There is the one to one, but some cannot afford it. With Dynamic Coaching, people get a chance to have an initial conversation to figure out where they want to go…what they want to accomplish. Usually, after that chat, digging deeper into that person, they come to realize it can be something totally different.

      Each person is unique and that’s why it’s important to get to know them and help them get on their way. And yes, they are able to ask questions, so that we can answer them. It’s not so generic.

      Thanks for stopping by,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  25. Don Purdum
    Twitter:
    September 9, 2014 at 6:30 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Very informative article on coaching.

    As you may know, this last year I started coaching web designers, developers, social media companies and graphic designers on how to build a six figure income and beyond. I’ve been in the industry for ten years and I still own my web design/develpoment company so the things I ask my clients to do are the same things I do every single day.

    You can imagine some of the hard lessons I’ve learned over the last ten years!!!! It’s been an awesome experience.

    I also added another program to coach offline businesses coming online on how to properly message themselves. It’s going gangbusters. It your definition I would say it’s a combination of the 1-1 and dynamic models.

    I love this so much that it appears my business model is starting transition away from web design more and more. I am actually negotiating with a few large companies in Maryland / DC to consult with them. Talk about exciting!!!!!!

    But I really start-ups and small companies. Nine months into it and I have several raving fans who are introducing me to their friends. I can see where a small group coaching program may have to come in at some point in the future.

    However, do to the challenges of learning what business you’re “really” in and learning how to transition to a business owner from a technician make it virtually impossible in my opinion to effectively do an online training program that is not interactive.

    If I’m going to take that route, I may just continue my speaking around the country and then write a book to compliment it and go that route for now until I can figure out a feasible way to bring a training program online that I’m comfortable with and is unique.

    Great post Donna!!! We should chat sometime soon. Perhaps I can share some future coaching opportunities with you that I can’t take or aren’t a good match for me but would be for you?

    Hope you have a wonderful evening and an amazing week!

    ~ Don Purdum
    Don Purdum recently posted..4 Obstacles I Overcame to Blog from ParadiseMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 10, 2014 at 9:56 am #

      Hi Don,

      Your business is fantastic! I like the way you can get those companies to be online. That takes a lot of one on one coaching. You can teach them to do it themselves, or do it for them (I like the latter lol)

      I think that continuing to speak around the country and write a book to compliment that is a wonderful idea.

      You have to be unique in your training program. It’s all up to your target market. Give the people what they need!! There are many ways to do so.

      Yes we should chat and do that. If I get someone that is not a “fit” for me I can send them to you and vise versa. This is how we both can please our customer’s needs.

      I’ve worked like that for decades in my off line business. If a person wasn’t a “fit” for me, I would send them to a trusted person to fulfill their needs. I find that doing business that way not only helps the client/customer, but also brings appreciation to us.

      Talk soon…

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  26. Andrew M. Warner
    Twitter:
    September 9, 2014 at 4:01 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I didn’t know there were various types of coaching other than Individual and group coaching. But you laid out some pretty interesting one here.

    Yes, coaching is very important and I think that there are so many benefits to coaching, as you pointed out, especially the group coaching that has the “hot seat” because you get constructive criticism from various people who have various ideas and opinions.

    That knowledge is HUGE for any individual.

    Have I considered bring coaching into my business? The more comfortable I get with writing and the more positive feedback I continue to get then the more comfortable I’ll be that I can coach someone and actually really help them. That’s what I’m really all about … helping people.

    I feel as though I’m close to that point and may consider starting some sort of coaching in the future.

    This was a superb share, Donna. Good luck with your coaching program as I’m sure that you provide top-notch value from it.

    – Andrew
    Andrew M. Warner recently posted..The Shocking Truth About Every Piece Of Blogging Advice You ReceiveMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 9, 2014 at 11:17 pm #

      Hi Andrew,

      You would make a fantastic coach! You share so much in your blog and are very knowledgeable. I’m sure that if you asked your readers “would you like me to coach you” You would get a bunch of Yes Yes Yes…

      But it is a separate business altogether. There is a lot you need to set up as a platform for coaching.

      Once you are ready, I know it will happen!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  27. Mark
    Twitter:
    September 9, 2014 at 4:01 pm #

    Great read Donna!

    As I’m was reading your extremely well written post, I couldn’t help but think how many of the different styles of coaching programs over the years, that I’ve personally be involved in.

    And more importantly, which style of program(s) that I feel have definitely helped me the most.

    And there are at least two of the different coaching styles you describe, that I have personally benefited from the most.

    More importantly, I really like the way you shared some of the retail cost considerations as well.

    Which may not be so readily apparent, especially to a green as grass newbie!LOL!

    When you point out, that part of what you’re really paying for when you enroll into one of the bigger name coaches ongoing coaching/mentoring programs, is the enormous (and constantly expanding) overhead!

    After all, they,re in the coaching/mentoring business. So they have expensive sales reps that constantly work commercially licensed installed phone lines for them!

    They’ve got expensive office space to pay for.

    And part of your enrollment fee (as you also pointed out) helps pay that affiliate/sales rep commission for enrolling you!

    And then there’s the constant retail type advertising they do! Somebody’s gotta help defray those costs as well!

    And a better alternative (as you also pointed out), might be to go with a entrepreneur/ coach that hasn’t quite more reached guru status yet!

    Because they’re able and willing to add significantly more personalized services, because they’re still building their reputation! Really great advice!

    I may just have to take you & David up on your dynamic coaching approach!

    Because one things definitely for sure for me to this point!

    My results have literally been upwards of the 200% plus range, since I was wise enough to apply the proven concepts and strategies that I’ve learned from you two thus far!

    Thanks coach! Always my pleasure share my results with other prospective student/customer/ potential long term clients etc!

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 9, 2014 at 10:41 pm #

      Hi Mark,

      Oh yes, there are many styles of coaching. The ones from gurus are priced higher because of all you have stated above. So when it comes down to it they do have to charge a higher price point.

      And…if it is an affiliate program, things go wild on the internet. I’ve taken a course or two like that and felt a little impersonal. I did learn so much and grateful to them, but I needed more than a generic way.

      David and I both had gone through coaches during the past years. It was not until we did invest in a one to one coach that got us going. Gave us the confidence level, tools, and everything we needed to get our first product out…The one you have! 🙂

      Now we are growing and the more people want, the more we produce. I think we have done 4 or 5 other products since then. They are paid webinars. It threw some people off because they are used to going to a free webinar to learn something, but at the end, there is ALWAYS that sales pitch.

      In the VIP Club, each and every product produced is free and we follow up with a Q&A every week. We are also available for questions people have along the way. Like we did when we first met you and had a great conversation.

      I am so glad your results went up 200% since you have purchased our product. But as a good coach I can only say it was because YOU made it happen.

      Thanks so much,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  28. Ryan Biddulph
    Twitter:
    September 9, 2014 at 3:45 pm #

    Wow Donna, are we on the same wavelength 😉

    I just went live with my blog coaching services yesterday. A few folks had inquired about it, and someone who read my eBook and loved it became a client, and I knew it was time to get the page up. Heck, I even linked in through my comment here, all set to paste it, then voilia….I read your post.

    Perfect!

    Dynamic coaching sounds awesome. Like, you’d make a connection through DC like you would thru no other approach….save maybe 1 on 1 coaching.

    You’re an energy molding master so these sessions are probably quite awesome, inspired and I know your clients receive massive benefits from receiving your advice, and more importantly, through absorbing your energy. Go 1 on 1, or go dynamic, to really make an impact.

    The price is worth it, and if you can avoid struggling for 4 or 5 years, tell your ego to shut the heck up, pay, and prosper.

    Awesome Donna, love the share.

    I’ll tweet in a bit.

    Ryan
    Ryan Biddulph recently posted..Why Avoiding this Disastrous Blogging Mistake Accelerates Your Success (and How to Cure Underdog Syndrome)My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 9, 2014 at 10:32 pm #

      Hi Ryan,

      That is fantastic! I’m sure that your blog coaching services are wonderful. Proof is in the pudding…you are a master blogger! So why not coach? You have come a long way and have learned so much and have much to give others.

      Thanks for your kind words about my energy! ((blush)) It does get down to that. People who resonate with David and I are the most awesome folks we met. It’s that law of attraction that brings in our clients that we enjoy working with.

      Thanks again!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  29. Neamat Tawadrous
    Twitter:
    September 9, 2014 at 3:07 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I love how you explained each type of coaching. I know of the large group coaching and the small group coaching, which is sometimes called inner circle group, and of course the one on one coaching.

    As you explained, the large group coaching with a member site is good for newbies until they get going. As you said the information is generic, but there will come a time where they need specific coaching tailered for their needs and the generic will not do anymore, and that is where the one on one coaching comes handy.

    I agree with all the previous commenters that your dynamic coaching sounds to be the right one. It’s worth the time and money to shrink the learning curve.

    Thanks Donna for sharing this with us. Have a great week ahead.

    Be Blessed,

    Neamat
    Neamat Tawadrous recently posted..What Matters Most? Good Reputation Or Riches?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 9, 2014 at 10:27 pm #

      Hi Neamat,

      Yes, most newbies will come in with the large group coaching with a member site until they get going.

      I had come in years ago with something similar. But as we grow, we need different types of coaching.

      When I did a one to one, which was expensive, it completely changed my world.

      David and I came up with Dynamic Coaching and so far many have been happy with it. It is not officially launched yet, but our members are pretty happy when they get to talk to us and plan a strategy.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  30. Ravi Chahar
    Twitter:
    September 9, 2014 at 2:22 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    You know I am also the one who never took any coaching from anyone to build my business.
    I work my own. I just do what I feel like to do.:)

    I agree with you that people who want to become an entrepreneur should know the basic ides about building their business. For beginners it’s a do must thing.

    Newbies should find any coach who can guide them for building their business in a better form.
    There may be many type of coaching according to the number of people but personally if I would go for coaching then I would prefer to be single.

    Thanks a lot for this wonderful post.

    Hope you have an awesome week ahead.

    ~Ravi
    Ravi Chahar recently posted..10 Killer Tips To Provide Customer Service Via Social MediaMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 9, 2014 at 10:24 pm #

      Hi Ravi,

      That is amazing..no coaching and you always give great content, are consistent and a real go giver. You are just made for this!

      Yes, Newbies are coming in fast and furious, that’s why I like to help them out. There are so many mixed messages they get that can be such time wasters. I’ve seen people shut down their blogs after a few months, put another up and still walk away. I’ve also seen newbies coming in with information from a company they are working with and it is all about sales. There is no balance.

      This is why I had to create my first product “Blogging Fever” which is a multitude of video tutorials.

      I too prefer single coaching. I had them all, but the one on one was the best of all. It was pretty pricey, but worth it to me.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  31. Harleena Singh
    Twitter:
    September 9, 2014 at 3:31 am #

    Hi Donna,

    That surely was an informative post 🙂

    I never knew there are so many kinds of coaching, though I did learn about most of them from the coaching I just recently started, just as I’d mentioned in one of my earlier posts and interview with Berry.

    Yes, you have the personal one to one coaching, which was what they advised would be more personalized and were offering to have a coach right with you to guide you through, while the other usual kinds require you to spend a couple of hours studying their material and getting someone ready to be coached by you. I guess it differs from the type to another one. Never heard of group coaching and I wonder whether that would be as effective, without any personal attention as such.

    Your dynamic coaching does sound the right one for starting off and excelling in ones field. Thanks for sharing this with us. Have a nice week ahead 🙂
    Harleena Singh recently posted..What Can You Learn From GrandparentsMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 9, 2014 at 10:20 pm #

      Hi Harleena,

      Group coaching is done on a Google+ hangout or a Facebook Event …anything on that platform. It is a group of people that are getting coached…somewhat like a classroom.

      It is quite effective. Actually all mentioned are, but it all depends on a person and what they need at that moment.

      One to one coaching is best of all! But…many people cannot afford it. This is why when coaching, we need to have several different kinds to give people. Different price points, but ALWAYS OVER DELIVER!!!

      Dynamic coaching offers a one to one consultation to plan out a strategy, but then goes on to webinars teaching various subjects. Not webinars that teach and then give a sales pitch lol.

      It is followed up by a Q&A so people can be on going learners, and of course, if someone gets “stuck” we are available to help them out.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  32. Sue Price
    Twitter:
    September 9, 2014 at 3:08 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Coaching is important for everyone. You mentioned large corporations engaging coaches but even when we had small businesses we had coaches for us as business owners and for our team. Not all the time but at various stages of the business.

    Most people do not understand the different levels of coaching that are available and you have detailed them beautifully here.

    Most of the really successful people I know have spent a lot of money in coaching and it is great to know you can help people without charging them a huge amount. I know anyone who does your coaching will be in excellent hands and you will help there business.

    Great post and video Donna.

    Sue
    Sue Price recently posted..Online vs Brick and Mortar BusinessMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 9, 2014 at 1:43 pm #

      Hi Sue,

      Yes indeed, David and I spent our share of money in coaching ourselves. In order to coach, one must make the investment of a huge learning curve. We did have coaching from all the above.

      Remember when David went to Daegan’s for a one to one coaching? Although it was pretty pricy, it was worth more than ever.

      When producing our first product “Blogging Fever” we hired a coach to help us. Not an easy task because we worked so hard and had to meet deadlines and then tweaked it over and over again until our coach told us we were ready. I was banging my head against the wall, but it was all worth it.

      I always found that having someone to talk to was helpful that’s why we have built this into our VIP Club.

      Thanks for your kind words,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  33. Brittany Bullen
    Twitter:
    September 9, 2014 at 12:41 am #

    Donna,

    What a fantastic design for your coaching business! I’ve been trying to figure out to structure mine. My struggle is that because my niche is full of people who aren’t all that willing to spend money on coaching, I don’t quite know how to price it.

    Right now I’m doing a whole lot of consulting for free and I no longer have the time to handle it. Just not quite sure what the next step should be. How do you put a value on what you know?

    It sounds like you’ve got it figured out. Well done! I’ll be sure to share.

    Brittany
    Brittany Bullen recently posted..Why Mommy Bloggers Make So Little MoneyMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 9, 2014 at 1:38 pm #

      Hi Brittany,

      If you are giving your time and energy out for free, those people won’t pay you a nickle! What you are attracting are those who only want free help. If you asked them for a dollar, they will run.

      I know…I have an off line business and had learned this many decades ago. But…the good thing is that you have gained experience working with people.

      Now, it may be time for you to target an audience out of your realm and get that pay to play approach. Know that if you are helping someone and put a price on it, that they will value it and learn from it more than getting it for free. It’s human nature!!!

      I think you have to sit down and put a value on your knowledge and time. That’s up to you. But stand strong and don’t budge!!!

      Come out of that “fear box” and put value on your self girl!

      You are not alone on this one. Many of my clients share the same problem. It is difficult at first, but don’t be afraid. Put a price on what you do, and then go out and find a target market. They won’t be your friends, but rather new faces in the crowd.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  34. Susan Cooper
    Twitter:
    September 9, 2014 at 12:04 am #

    Hi Donna, I think the dynamic coaching sounds like a great approach – with the what’s working now, up to date info. Coaching is definitely worth the time and money. It is just so hard to move ahead and figure things out on your own without it, especially when you are first starting out. You don’t know which way to turn for advice or who to listen to, so a great coach is worth their weight in gold.

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 9, 2014 at 1:32 pm #

      Hi Susan,

      You said it! Especially when first starting out, it feels like you are in one of those mirror mazes at a carnival. You get so much information and can’t find your way.

      One has to have a goal, plan, or something to start to move forward. Coaching is the way to go!

      And as things change so quickly on the internet, we could look up one thing and it doesn’t apply to today’s market. This is why coaching has to have the most up to date information.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  35. Dr. Erica Goodstone
    Twitter:
    September 8, 2014 at 11:13 pm #

    Donna,

    Since 2008 I have received all sorts of coaching, some individual with high level “gurus” and some fully automated coaching. Each one of these offered value in its own way and depending upon where I was at and what I was ready to hear or to create, I may or may not have accomplished my goals. The bottom line, no matter what type of coaching we choose to follow, there comes a point when we have to do the work – to actually write the sales letters and autoresponder messages, to create the free report and the course, etc.

    When seeking a coach, one needs to know the answer to a few questions. What is my budget? What type of coaching do I need for right now or for later one when my early steps are completed?

    Sometimes a top level, guru-type coach, can be intimidating and actually stifle a newbie’s creativity. Someone who is just one or two steps ahead may be more empathic and more willing to give the time and attention that is needed.

    Your dynamic approach to coaching sounds like the perfect way to help someone get going and start creating.

    Warmly,

    Dr. Erica
    Dr. Erica Goodstone recently posted..All You Need Is LoveMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 9, 2014 at 1:02 pm #

      Hi Erica,

      Thank you for adding so much value to this post. I too had one to one coaching from top “gurus” and also lots of automated coaching. Yes, it does depend on where you are at.

      We can first start with some automated coaching, and then find ourselves needing to hire a one to one coach to get that job done!

      So true…one has to ask themselves first what is their budget? And what type of coaching is necessary right now!

      I think coaching is an on going process. As we grow, we need to keep on learning and getting coaching is the best way to do so.

      I’m several steps ahead of my target audience so that is why I’ve created the products necessary to get someone going at a pretty affordable price.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  36. Monna Ellithorpe
    Twitter:
    September 8, 2014 at 8:51 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    This post today just reinforces the conversation today with you and David. I am so motivated after talking with the both of you and looking forward to learning more.

    Have a great evening.
    Monna Ellithorpe recently posted..Be Consistent With Branding YourselfMy Profile

  37. Sylviane Nuccio
    Twitter:
    September 8, 2014 at 7:52 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Well, even as a coach I had never really thought about the different types of coaching as you detailed them here.

    I would never want to do robotic fit all type coaching for anyone. Each one of my client is a single and specific individual with his or her own needs.

    I don’t really believe in group coaching, because you really need to go inside each individual’s head and issues, so to speak. Group coaching can be a waste of time and money in my book.

    Also, I wanted to add that there are still one on one coach that are affordable, it’s just that people don’t shop around enough at times and they feel that they’re all the same, but we’re not 🙂

    Nicely done!
    Sylviane Nuccio recently posted..How To Help Your Blog On Top When Blogging Takes Second Row In LifeMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 8, 2014 at 9:30 pm #

      Hi Sylviane,

      Aha..shopping is the key! There are some that are sky high with their price points and others that make it affordable.

      It is all about who we want as a target market. If I know someone is new to blogging, I need to make a price point that is affordable. There is a lot of research that goes into that one.

      I too agree that we are all individuals. I have paid the big bucks in the past for one to one coaching on product creation and marketing. But in the end, it was all worth it for me.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  38. Marquita Herald
    Twitter:
    September 8, 2014 at 5:42 pm #

    It’s so exciting to see how you continue to grow your business helping bloggers and online entrepreneurs Donna! I couldn’t agree more with you about the importance of finding the right fit when it comes to coaching – not only the style but the personality of the coach as well. Your new VIP Club sounds exciting and I wish you all the best as I’m sure there will be many smart entrepreneurs not want to miss out on this opportunity!
    Marquita Herald recently posted..Taking the Scenic Route to Achieve Your Goals?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 8, 2014 at 9:27 pm #

      Hi Marquita,

      We all need coaching in one way or another. I am a great believer in it. But we do need to find the right fit for ourselves. I had many along the way from personal development to marketing. Some were great and I still am a fan, others just weren’t a fit for me.

      Thank you for our kind words about our VIP club.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  39. Adrienne
    Twitter:
    September 8, 2014 at 5:20 pm #

    Hey Donna,

    Wow, when you name all the different types of coaching and lay them all out there for us, I guess I didn’t realize there were so many different kinds.

    I know that I drug my feet a lot in this area too so I’m very guilty. I have done some one on one coaching but it was mostly for me and not my business. The rest has been membership sites that drip the content to you but what I was needing at that time seemed to work for me.

    Since I do coaching myself I can sympathize with those that need that one on one attention and more direction. I’m actually very proud of them for reaching out and wanting the help. Like you said there comes a time when you need the help because you’re not going to be able to get much further ahead alone.

    Great share on this and I know that your coaching program is top notch. I hope that those that really need it will see the value here.

    I wish you the best.

    ~Adrienne
    Adrienne recently posted..Why Being Everywhere For Traffic Is A LieMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 8, 2014 at 7:52 pm #

      Hi Adrienne,

      I have been though so many different types of coaching for one thing or another. It was not until I got the one to one coaching I needed, that pushed me into making my first product. I had to meet deadlines, was getting pushed to my limits and oh boy…just when I thought I got it, more tweaking… But I’m sure glad I did because I needed someone to be pushing me. 🙂

      Even when it comes to marketing, David studies one way, and I another. I remember when he first started doing a one to one with a “guru” coach. It was pretty costly, but something clicked and from then on he was on his way.

      I hired other coaches in my circle to get production done, and so on. I don’t think as a consumer, it ever ends. Now my latest to do is to do more speaking. (Like I don’t stop talking enough lol)

      But as a coach myself, I need to keep on learning to give my customers the latest edge. The internet keeps on changing and it is my responsibility as a coach to keep ahead of the game.

      Phew….

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

  40. Christi Johnson September 8, 2014 at 4:21 pm #

    I love this, Donna! I am just starting out with my coaching, and so far, it’s going really well for me. I was surprised that month one was so successful. I love that you put the information out here in such a concise way for everyone to follow and make a quality decision about working together with you.

    I an in complete agreement with you that coaching is a smart way to jump start your earning potential and also be of service to your community.

    Powerful article, lady!
    Christi Johnson recently posted..Christi’s August, 2014 Income ReportMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 8, 2014 at 7:46 pm #

      Hi Christi,

      Just read your latest post and Congratulations! How wonderful you are doing my friend. I know you will be a fabulous coach because of all your experience.

      Choosing a coach for whatever your goals are is so important and I strongly believe we cannot go it alone.

      There are so many different types of coaching programs out there and people need to be aware what is the right “fit” for them.

      Glad you liked this post,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

      • Karmakar
        Twitter:
        September 9, 2014 at 2:50 pm #

        Hi Donna

        Thanks a lot for this article… Wow… I never knew that one can actually categorize the “Coaching” in so many ways… Really there are so many things to learn in this blogger world and that is the reason why I am here… 🙂

        Some people might say that I am an old school but I will always prefer One-To-One coaching… I gives me more confidence and I can have 100% concentration of my coach.

        @Christi,

        Just saw your blog… You really deserve to be the Number 1 commenter on this post… 🙂

        Regards…
        Karmakar recently posted..Zero Backlink Vs Quality Content – My Ranking Experiment resultMy Profile

        • Donna Merrill
          Twitter:
          September 13, 2014 at 12:21 pm #

          Hi Karmaker,

          I wanted to bring to light how many different forms of coaching one can choose from. Coaching I believe is necessary when building a business on line.

          There may be bloggers that are in it just for the fun of it, but most are trying to create relationships and sell!

          I too prefer the one to one. Believe me…I’ve did them all!

          -Donna
          Donna Merrill recently posted..Do You Have Loyal Customers?My Profile

    • Sue Bride
      Twitter:
      September 27, 2014 at 4:07 pm #

      Hi Christi, what form does your training take? One to one or group, webinars or direct contact …. ?
      Sue Bride recently posted..Sueblimely Succinctly SummarizingMy Profile

Leave a Reply

CommentLuv badge

Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy
error: Content is protected !!