What is the difference between a business consultant and a business coach?
A business consultant knows a lot about a particular area. They find problems, offer ways to fix them, and sometimes do some work to solve the issue. As a business coach, the first thing I do is find out more about your challenges and what you want to achieve. I then ask you some hard questions to help you find your own answers. I also help you grow, stay on track, and believe in yourself.
In truth, I am a hybrid of a coach and consultant. My experience and expertise mean I can pinpoint the problems. But you're more likely to own and implement the solution if you work it out yourself. If you can't do it alone, I can help you learn how or find someone who can.
Do you offer a guarantee?
I can't offer a guarantee because your success depends on so many things. However, your first planning session with me is free. This initial meeting lets you experience what coaching with me will be like and helps you decide if it's a good fit for you. If we both think it is, we'll set goals and outline the steps to reach them. If, after six months, you feel that you're not making the progress we discussed during that first session, then the next month of coaching is on me—it's free.
What geographical locations do you cover?
I hold face-to-face meetings in Central London, North London, St Albans, Hemel Hempstead, Watford, Berkhamsted, and surrounding areas. However, if we're a good fit, I'm happy to work remotely with people all over the country and even overseas. Please ring me to find out more.
Why is your company called LJS Elite?
My initials are LJS, which stands for Lorna Jayne Smith. The word ‘Elite’ in my business name has a special story. I own a beautiful horse named Ellie, who means the world to me. She's a major source of motivation, so I wanted to include something that reminded me of her in my business name. The word ‘Elite’ stood out because it embodies high performance and subtly includes Ellie's name. Beyond that, the term embodies key values that are important to me: Education, Leadership, Integrity, Togetherness, and Empowerment. So, when I say ‘Elite’, it reflects my mission to educate and empower leaders with integrity, and together empowering them to be the best they can be.
What’s the point of business executive coaching?
Business coaching aims to boost your self-confidence, personal growth, and sense of responsibility while providing an unbiased overview of your business. Often, you're too engrossed in the day-to-day work to spot the key challenges. Or you may not be aware of aspects of your behaviour that affect your performance. A business coach allows you to step back and focus on ways to improve yourself or your business – and will hold you accountable for making the changes you want. A coach also acts as a sounding board, offering objective insights and advice on your business without being entangled in its operations.
Does business executive coaching work?
Business coaching produces meaningful results when you approach the process with an open mind, a genuine desire for change, and a commitment to doing the necessary work. It's not just about identifying areas for improvement; it's about actively participating in making positive changes, personally and professionally.
How can I find out more about what the personalised training involves?
Because the one-to-one programme will differ from person to person, the best way to find out more about it is to call me to chat things over. I’m always happy to have a conversation and answer any questions you have.
How can I tell if we’ll be a good fit?
Everyone has their own definition of a ‘good fit’ when it comes to business coaching. Decisions could be based on specific skills, industry knowledge, or simply good personal chemistry. That's why an initial informal meeting is crucial. This will give both of us the chance to see if we click. You'll instinctively know if I'm the right coach for you, and I'll be equally honest about what I think. If I feel I'm not the best fit, I won't hesitate to recommend another coach who might suit your needs better.