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Business Coaching vs. DIY School of Hard Knocks: Which One is Better?

Starting a business – particularly in the automotive industry – can be a challenging and rewarding experience, but it’s also essential to get it right from the beginning. The two main approaches to starting a business are: working with a business coach or going the DIY (do-it-yourself) route. Both options have advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to consider which is best for your circumstances.

Business Coaching

Business coaches are professionals who work with shop owners to help them start and grow their businesses. They provide guidance, support, and advice on various aspects of business, including marketing, sales, finance, and operations. They help auto repair shop owners develop business plans, set goals, and make informed decisions. Additionally, they can provide mentorship and support during the early stages of a business.

Advantages:

1. 1. 1. Expertise and experience: Business coaches have a wealth of experience and knowledge they bring to the table. This can save people who are new to owning a business a lot of time, money, and effort.
      2. Access to networks: Business coaches often have extensive contacts and can introduce shop owners to potential customers, partners, and investors.
      3. Objectivity: Business coaches provide an outside perspective and can help entrepreneurs avoid common mistakes and blind spots.

DIY School of Hard Knocks

The DIY School of Hard Knocks approach involves starting a business without the help of a coach. Business owners learn through trial and error and by seeking advice from friends, family, and online resources.

Advantages:

1. 1. 1. Cost: Going the DIY route is often less expensive than hiring a coach.
      2. Ownership and control: Auto repair shop owners have complete control over their businesses and can make decisions and take action without relying on anyone else.
      3. Personal satisfaction: Technicians and Service Advisors who want to run their own company, and who choose the DIY route often feel a greater sense of pride and ownership in their business, as they’ve built it from the ground up.

Which is Better?

Both business coaching and the DIY School of Hard Knocks have plusses and minuses. The best approach for you will depend on your circumstances, including your goals, budget, and learning style.

If you have a clear vision for your business, a strong work ethic, you don’t have a budget to hire a coach, and the ability to learn quickly, then the DIY School of Hard Knocks may be the right choice. However, if you are new to the business world, have limited time and resources, or would benefit from the expertise and support of a coach, then working with a business coach may be the better choice.

Whether you choose business coaching or the DIY School of Hard Knocks, the most important thing is to take action and start building your business. Both approaches have their benefits, and the key to success is finding the best process for you.

How Can NWACA Help My Business Grow?

One of the primary advantages of joining NWACA is access to auto industry-specific resources. Many associations offer their members access to a wealth of information, including business coaches, research, reports, and industry news. Membership with NWACA is an invaluable resource for staying up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the automotive industry.

We encourage you to join our NWACA meetings, for we are a great community of like-minded individuals. Within NWACA, you’ll meet plenty of shop owners who took the DIY approach to business, as well as get coaching from others. Whatever route you choose, you can expect your business to benefit by becoming an active Northwest Auto Care Alliance member. 

For more information about becoming a Northwest Auto Care Alliance member, you will find answers to most of your questions on our website. If you have questions, contact our Executive Director, Brenda Wolslegel.