Are you stuck in the corporate world and want to be an independent CliftonStrengths® Coach? Do you need the courage to leave your full time job and set up a new business? Where do you start? The first tip is Don’t Quit – yet. Here are 10 essential steps to take before leaving your corporate job. Preparing your new business before your departure will give it the best possible start for your new career.
Dana Williams is a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach in Dallas, Texas. In addition to her experience in strategic brand marketing, she shapes her business around her strengths, giving her an advantage. Read her top tips to help you prepare your new business for success.
10 Steps Before Leaving Corporate to Become a CliftonStrengths® Coach
Three years ago, I left my corporate job to become a CliftonStrengths® Coach and Consultant. This journey has been both challenging and rewarding. Here are 10 crucial steps to prepare for your transition.
Remember, you don’t need to do everything yourself. Instead, surround yourself with a “Virtual Board of Directors” – trusted individuals whose strengths complement yours. Their perspectives can be invaluable as you navigate your career change.
1. Build Your Business Brand before you Leave your Job
At least a year before you leave your full time job, start working on your personal brand for your new business. Craft a unique mission statement that aligns with your CliftonStrengths® and defines your area of expertise. This spells out your Why – why you are setting up your business. In addition, it provides a clear direction to help with decision-making.
The support of a mentor and enrolling on a group workshop will help you clarify your brand and mission.
Update your professional profiles so they reflect your brand, and begin sharing content to showcase your knowledge and passion for strengths-based development within your organization.
See What is your Guiding Mission Statement?
2. Deepen Your CliftonStrengths® Expertise
While you’re still in your corporate role, invest time to deepen your understanding of CliftonStrengths®. Go beyond your certification by applying the concepts in your current work environment. Volunteer to lead strengths-based team-building sessions or offer informal coaching to colleagues. Study advanced CliftonStrengths® concepts, such as Theme Dynamics and Strengths-Based Leadership. The more you can apply and explain these ideas in real-world situations, the more confident and effective you’ll be when you launch your coaching practice.
Additionally, start collecting stories and case studies from your experiences. These will be invaluable testimonies when marketing your services and demonstrating the impact of CliftonStrengths® coaching to potential clients.
3. Build a Financial Safety Net
Transitioning from a steady paycheck to an entrepreneurial income can be challenging. Before leaping to quit your full time job, aim to save enough to cover 6-12 months of living expenses. This buffer will give you the peace of mind to focus on building your new coaching practice without immediate financial pressure.
4. Develop a Comprehensive Business Plan
Create a solid business plan that outlines your coaching services, target market, pricing strategy, and projected income and expenses. Research the market and identify your niche to differentiate yourself from potential competitors. Sharing this with your mentor and entrepreneurial colleagues will strengthen your plan for greater resilience.
Tools such as The Strengths Journal can help keep your plan on track reminding you to use your strengths every day.
5. Network and Build Relationships in the Coaching Industry
Expand your network to reach a greater audience. While you’re still employed connect with other coaches, join associations, attend conferences, and participate in online forums. Seek out mentors who have successfully made the transition from corporate to coaching. Their insights can be invaluable as you navigate this change saving you time and costly mistakes. Also, connect with others who are on your journey to share experiences.
See Effective Business Networking – for your Coaching Practice
6. Gain Additional Certifications and Training
While your CliftonStrengths® certification is a great foundation, consider complementing it with other relevant certifications or training. This could include additional coaching methodologies, business management courses, or specialized training in areas like team dynamics or leadership development.
7. Start Coaching Part-Time
Before the career change and you leave your corporate job, begin offering your CliftonStrengths® coaching services on a part-time basis. This approach enables you to gain experience, build your confidence, and start establishing a client base. It’s also a great way to test your coaching style and refine your offerings.
Leverage your current position to establish yourself as a thought leader inside and outside your company. Offer to speak at local and national events focusing on topics that align with your future coaching practice. This builds your credibility and helps you practice articulating the concepts you’ll use in your coaching career.
See Coaching Tips
8. Establish Your Online Presence
Create a professional website and social media profiles showcasing your expertise with success stories. Use your online presence to reflect your unique brand and the value you offer as a coach. Share insights about CliftonStrengths®, success stories from your part-time coaching, and valuable tips for personal and professional development.
9. Understand the Legal and Financial Aspects
Before fully transitioning to your new career, make sure you understand the legal and financial implications of starting your own coaching business. This includes choosing the right business structure, setting up proper accounting systems, and understanding tax obligations for self-employed professionals. Consider consulting with a lawyer and an accountant who specialize in small businesses.
10. Prepare for the Emotional Journey when you leave your job
To leave your job in the corporate world to start your coaching business is not just a career change — it’s a significant life transition. Be prepared for the emotional challenges that come with entrepreneurship, such as uncertainty, self-doubt, and the pressure of being solely responsible for your success. Develop strategies to maintain your well-being and resilience. Build a support network of fellow entrepreneurs.
Conclusion
Transitioning from a corporate career to starting your coaching business is an exciting journey that requires careful planning and preparation. By following these ten steps and leveraging your unique strengths, you’ll be well-positioned to succeed in your new venture. So remember, your CliftonStrengths® are your greatest assets — use them to guide your decisions, overcome challenges, and create a coaching practice that truly reflects your talents and passions.
Remember, the world needs more people working in their areas of strength. By taking this bold step, you’re not only transforming your own life but also empowering others to discover and leverage their unique talents. Embrace this journey, use your strengths, and get ready to make a lasting impact as a CliftonStrengths® coach.
Further Reading
Should I Start My Own Coaching Business?
What is your Guiding Mission Statement?
Top 10 Tips for a New Strength Coach
Header image Dana Williams
