Why Business Coaching Fails Sometimes

Amy Atherton • August 20, 2025

Business coaching has the potential to unlock growth, clarity and real results.

But let's be honest -- sometimes it doesn't work out.

You invest the time and money, but nothing sticks. No real shift. No lasting impact. 


So, what gives? 


The truth is that coaching fails for predictable reasons - and most of them are preventable.  Here's how to spot the pitfalls and make couching actually deliver. 


  • You wanted a Shortcut, Not a shift

Coaching isn't consulting. It's not about outsourcing decisions - it's about becoming a stronger decision- maker. When leaders expect results without changing behavior or mindset, progress stalls. 

Solution: Be ready to challenge your habits, not just tweak your to- do list. 


  • You weren't fully in.

Coaching only works if you do the work. Skipping sessions, avoiding tough conversations, or treating it like an optional add-on guarantees frustration. 

Solution: Block the time. Take action. Treat your growth like a non-negotiable. 


  • You choose the wrong coach.

Anyone can call themselves a coach and not all coaches are the right fit. What works for one business may not work for yours.

Solution: Look for someone who understands your stage, challenges, and goals - ActionCOACH provides training and proven systems, so franchise coaches come with vetted methodologies. 


  • You (or your team) Weren't Coachable.

Coaching can't fix ego, blame, or resistance. 

If you're not ready to hear hard truths or change course, even the best coach won't move the dial. 

Solution: Ask yourself: Am I open? Am I honest? Am I ready to be challenged? 


When Coaching Works, Everything Gets Easier

  • You lead with clarity
  • Your team becomes stronger
  • You stop spinning plates and start building systems
  • Your business becomes more valuable - and less dependent on you 


Want coaching that actually works? Let's have a real conversation - no pitch, no pressure. Just clarify what's holding you back, and what's possible when coaching is done right. 


You don't need more advice. You need traction. Let's start there. 

5 Traits of the Best Business Coaches (Before You Hire One, Read This)

By Amy Atherton • August 24, 2025
Let’s face it — anyone can call themselves a “coach” these days. But when you’re investing serious time and money, you don’t need just any coach. You need the right coach. 1. Extensive Real-World Experience Theory alone won’t grow your business. The best coaches have been in the trenches — they’ve led teams, managed growth, and faced the same challenges you’re up against. They may not have built a business identical to yours, but the skills and lessons they’ve mastered are highly transferable. That outside perspective is often what helps you see solutions you’d miss on your own — practical advice grounded in experience, not just theory. 2. Business Acumen You Can Trust A strong coach understands how a healthy, thriving business should actually run. From financials to systems to strategy, they bring a 360° view that helps you spot blind spots and avoid costly mistakes. 3. Great Listening Skills The best coaches don’t just talk. They listen. They ask questions you hadn’t thought of, hear what’s behind your words, and help you see issues more clearly. Sometimes the breakthrough comes not from what they say — but from what they help you realize. 4. Accountability That Drives Results A good coach won’t let you drift. They’ll hold you accountable to your goals and push you beyond “good intentions.” That gentle (or not-so-gentle) nudge can be the difference between staying stuck and hitting the next level. 5. A Track Record of Results At the end of the day, results matter. Look for testimonials, case studies, and proven wins. Great coaches don’t just inspire — they help clients build measurable success. Final Thought The best business coaches combine wisdom, empathy, and accountability to help you achieve results you couldn’t reach alone. At ActionCOACH, we hold ourselves to these standards because coaching isn’t just about advice — it’s about transformation.

5 Reasons Business Coaching is Worth Every Penny

By Amy Atherton • August 24, 2025
Business coaching is about making your business into a valuable asset that runs smoothly, with or without you. You'll Gain Clarity in Your Business A coach will help you get clear on your roadmap for your business and keep you accountable to the action steps. You'll learn how to take your time back and have a healthy work life balance. Learn new skills. A coach can help identify skills you or your team needs and suggest tools and systems to move you and your team forward. Confidence and Peace of Mind Once you have your roadmap and your coach holds you accountable you have confidence in your business, so you rest peacefully at night. Your business will be transferable. ActionCOACH Dane County had 7 business that sold in 2022-2023

Business Coach vs Startup Accelerator/Incubator

By Amy Atherton • August 20, 2025
Business Coach vs. Startup Accelerator vs. Incubator: Which Is Right for You?

Business Coaching VS Business Training Courses

By Amy Atherton • August 20, 2025
Training Teaches. Coaching Transforms.

What If I Chose The Wrong Coach?

By Amy Atherton • August 20, 2025
The #1 Fear About Hiring a Coach (And How to Avoid It)

"I Don't Have Time For Coaching" Will It Take Too Much Time?

By Amy Atherton • August 20, 2025
If you're like most business owners/leaders, you're moving fast. Solving problems. Jumping between roles. Trying to squeeze productivity out of every hour. So, when someone suggests coaching, the reflex is: "I can't add one more thing." But what if that mindset is costing you more than it's saving?