In Guyana today, I’m seeing more and more business owners catching on to the idea that business coaching is a real competitive advantage.
And that’s a great thing. It shows that our entrepreneurs are thinking beyond day-to-day operations and are starting to focus on strategy, systems, and leadership.
With that growing awareness comes a serious warning: not everyone calling themselves a “coach” is actually providing coaching.
The Rise of the “One-Trick Ponies”
I’ve come across several business owners recently who’ve shared stories about so-called “coaches” that made me shake my head.
One told me their coach always started meetings by asking, “So, what are you working on this week?”
Sounds harmless until you realize the coach never asked why they were working on it. Without that “why,” you’re just busy, not strategic.
Another business owner said their coach advised them to copy another company’s job posting. Now, that’s not the worst idea if the post is performing well; if it isn’t getting results, that advice could be one of the dumbest moves you could make in today’s competitive hiring environment.
And then there’s my personal favourite: someone told me their coach recommended spending over GYD $2.7 million per month on online ads, yet when I asked about their customer acquisition cost, they looked blank.
That’s not coaching. That’s guessing and expensive guessing at that.
Coaching vs. Advice
Let’s be clear: professional coaching is not just about giving advice or throwing around motivational buzzwords.
A professional coach brings a structured, customizable business framework. One that’s been tested, refined and tailored to your specific goals, challenges and team dynamics.
It’s not about telling you what to do; it’s about guiding you to see what needs to be done and equipping you with the tools to do it effectively.
Why This Matters in Guyana
Guyana’s business landscape is growing rapidly. New industries, new partnerships, new competition. The difference between those who thrive and those who struggle often comes down to clarity, systems and consistent execution.
That’s where true coaching comes in. The right coach helps you design and implement systems that free you from daily chaos so you can focus on growth.
Anything less is just noise.
Beware of the “Snake Oil”
Back in the old days, we had snake oil salesmen; people selling fake cures and tonics that promised miracles yet delivered nothing.
Unfortunately, in today’s business world, some “coaches” are doing the same thing. Lots of talk, very little transformation.
If you’re going to invest your time and money in coaching, make sure it’s with someone who brings a proven process, not just enthusiasm and catchphrases.
Final Thought
Coaching, when done right, can change your business and your life. It’s not a one-size-fits-all exercise. It’s a partnership built on clarity, accountability and results.
So before you hire your next “coach,” ask yourself this:
- Do they have a structured approach?
- Can they measure success?
- And most importantly, do they challenge you to think differently?
If the answer is no, then they’re not a coach. They’re a distraction.
Be careful out there. Your future deserves the right guidance.