therapist role or provide case studies and concrete assignments to build tangible skills .
Tactics also range based on a client ’ s needs . Glassman ’ s work might include reading assignments on time management or hands-on “ blocking and tackling ” for big issues . Lang , who works with individuals and leadership suites , likes to use 360-degree reviews to develop a written coaching plan with set goals . In some cases , she refers clients to a marriage or family therapist for especially sensitive issues .
For Araujo Bézian , a good fit meant finding someone with a “ compatible outlook and style to ( the ) family .” The family knew they didn ’ t want anyone too flashy or aggressive . Araujo Bézian started reaching out to other family businesses she knew had sought coaches for advice and referrals . She interviewed several of the recommended candidates , including Lang . They hit it off .
Experts say turning to peers for recommendations is one of the best ways to find a coach for your family business . Premo says she frequently fields requests for referrals from members . And she ’ s happy to help point them in the right direction .
Cost can also be a factor too . Lang says she ’ s heard of coaches charging from $ 150 to $ 800 an hour . A monthslong engagement can cost tens of thousands of dollars . Although the price tag might seem like a barrier to some , Glassman says many family businesses see it as a long-term investment . A bigger barrier than cost , he says , is time . “ What we ’ re finding out now , it ’ s more about the time commitment ,” he says . “‘ I ’ ve got so many demands on my time . How am I going to get ( the most ) out of it ?’”
And be prepared to put in the work , sometimes for the long haul . Successful “ management development , active coaching ,” as Glassman describes the ideal setup , can stretch on for years . But advocates say the rewards are worth it .
Araujo Bézian ’ s family winery is a testament to that . For nearly two years , Lang helped the partners develop more effective communication skills and navigate new challenges , such as bringing in the first high-level hire from outside the family . Araujo Bézian found the experience so helpful that she continued on for one-on-one coaching with Lang . Having an external person to help process issues and bounce ideas off has been invaluable .
She now sees a coach as an “ essential tool in the family business toolbox ,” and a tool she personally plans to keep sharpening for years . “ It ’ s not a one-anddone thing ,” she says . “ It ’ s a resource that can be really helpful long term .”
Torey Van Oot is a freelance writer and a former political reporter for The Sacramento Bee . She also has written for Glamour . com , Refinery29 , Teen Vogue and other publications . On Twitter @ toreyvanoot .
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