When someone goes to climb a mountain, they don’t venture the climb alone. They rely on a Sherpa. The elite mountaineers are known for their efforts helping early explorers of the Himalayan region, especially those venturing up Mount Everest.

The term today has expanded to refer to any kind of guide for mountaineering expeditions.

It is hard to imagine going on an upward climb without this type of mentor to guide you along each step of the way, but too often in many industries, including real estate, professionals do not always seek the guidance of a skilled coach.

Some real estate agents might feel they’ve been in the game a long time and don’t need any help, or they might be new to the industry and not ready for a coach. I have found that agents at all levels can benefit from their own sherpa.

You can’t reach the top without others to push and encourage you to live your best life possible. I have two coaches, and I have even had three coaches at different times in my life. This is also why my brokerage has implemented performance coaches for all our agents.

Why a coach is worth it

Here are four reasons why a coach can be vital to your real estate business: 

• Experience: A coach has been around the real estate industry long enough to see scenarios and situations arise. The experience a coach brings to your situation can save you countless headaches, as well as save you time and money.
• Honest answers: Sometimes fellow real estate agents may just tell you the answer you want to hear. It can help to hear the opinion of someone outside your circle. A coach can provide you with the unbiased truth, although not always easy to hear, it can provide the insight you need to learn and grow.
• Accountability: A coach will hold you accountable! A real estate agent wears many hats each day, and it can be easy to stray away from your business goals and get caught up in menial day-to-day tasks. A coach will check in with you and discuss the steps needed for you to stick to your goals.
• Motivation: When business slows down, it might be easy to lose motivation. A coach understands the highs and lows of the real estate industry and can help encourage you to stay motivated.

4 tips for finding the right coach for you

There are many real estate coaches out there and some amateurs using the title as well. Unfortunately, we are seeing the trend of too many digital nomads identifying themselves as “life coaches” without any cause and effect, almost tainting the title.

It’s important to not only find a professional, but also find a coach who aligns with your goals. When looking for a coach, here are some considerations:

1. Figure out your goals

First, think about the area of your business you are looking to improve upon.

• Are you trying to rebrand yourself?
• Or are your sale skills weak?
• Are you trying to scale your company?

It’s important to determine your main objectives right now so you can find a coach who is the guru in that specific area and can help you on your path to becoming successful.

2. Ask about experience

There are many real estate coaches out there, and many people claiming to be “a coach.” A coach needs to have a track record of helping other agents become successful.

Do your research independently. Ask if you can talk to other clients who have had success. It’s important to find someone who is able to train others and also has experience in the real estate industry.

Has he or she ever sold a house? Personal experience can be powerful and definitely something you want a coach to provide. Additionally, ask what professional training he or she has undergone to receive the title.

3. Talk about process

A coach should be able to describe his or her process and an outline for how your time together will look. Ask a coach how accessible he or she is and how often you plan to typically meet.

Find out how much preparation and homework is expected from your coaching sessions, so you can take full advantage of the knowledge you gain.

Finally, find a coach who will keep you accountable, or you’ll be wasting your time. The purpose of a coach is to make you do the things you find uncomfortable, and when you become uncomfortable, you grow.

4. Look at the fine print

Gaining a coach can do wonders for your business, but it is also an investment. Find out the price of coaching sessions upfront. Also, ask if there is a contract you can view, so you can learn about cancellation policies and other terms of the agreement.

Even if Mount Everest isn’t on your bucket list, consider adding a coach to your business plan. Not just athletes and actors need help. We all can learn from the experience and guidance of others.

Joshua Lybolt is president and co-founder of Lifstyl Real Estate. You can follow him on LinkedIn or YouTube.