Coach helps small business owners find balance between life and work
The tough economy is driving an expansion of a company that assists smaller businesses thrive.
Business professionals operating franchise locations of Cincinnati-based The Growth Coach are busier than ever helping their clients.
Dave Ferguson, who owns the Lake County territory, reported that revenue has increased month over month since August. "As the economy suffers, people see the need of getting outside help," said Ferguson of Libertyville.
The Growth Coach primarily assists small business owners and self-employed professionals needing guidance to succeed. Calling itself a "recession-resistant business," The Growth Coach is capitalizing on the exploding $3 billion business coaching industry. Franchisees now operate in the St. Charles, Naperville and Oak Brook areas with plans for expansion.
The growth into the Chicago area is part of an aggressive nationwide plan for the company to open 400 franchises within the next five years. The company utilizes a unique year-round coaching and accountability process called the Strategic Mindset, designed to enhance the mindset, focus and results.
Franchisees offer one-on-one sessions or interactive group workshops designed to help business owners sharpen their focus, increase their effectiveness, grow their incomes and simplify their lives.
"I help people balance their life," said Ferguson, 59. He helps clients understand that "life interferes with business and business interferes with life."
The price for coaching services ranges from $200 to $600 a month.
"Coaching works for people who are ready to change," Ferguson said. "My role is to help them make those changes."
Computer tips: Need a little help navigating your computer? A program titled "Make Your Computer Work for You" may help. The program takes place from 8 to 11 a.m. June 3 at the Hilton Garden Inn, ACT Training Center at 4070 Main St., St. Charles.
Laura Siebold, of Martopia and Rose Canfield of Solutions Networking Corp., will lead the session. It will focus on "things you always wanted to know" about computers.
Reservations are required by calling (630) 584-8384.
Dinner made easy: Entrees By You has expanded into two satellite locations for customers looking for convenience.
The meals are made fresh at the Palatine kitchen at 335 W. Northwest Highway., just west of Smith Road, and then transported to the satellite locations at Vito's Café in the Buehler YMCA in Palatine and the Barrington train station, 201 S. Spring Road.
The owners found that the trend is moving away from kitchen sessions to the convenience of pick up orders.
Shape up: Butterfly Life is holding an open house from 6 to 8 p.m. May 22 at its new Wood Dale location at 333 W. Irving Park Road.
The women's fitness club concept offers exercise classes, 30-minute circuit training and coaching for weight loss. It opens June 2. Owner Lisa Ketter is trying to develop an integrated approach to women's fitness, weight loss and healthy living. For more, check out www.butterflylife.com.
Now open: Heat Nightclub recently opened at 616 E. Golf Road in Schaumburg.
The business features two floors, six bars, two VIP rooms, three private event rooms, a lounge and dance floor.