1. Have very high expectations that they will be your coach, not necessarily your friend (though many of my clients have become my friends, my first responsibility is to be their coach and focus on their business growth).
2. Ask around to the people you know who have a coach, Google "business coach in (your city), or RSVP to the many coaches who have posted answers here (myself included: I offer a free strategy session to see if we're a fit, email brad@bradwarren.com)
3. Ask what their business background is, and are they a "pure" coach (who only asks you questions and never gives advice) or are they a hybrid coach (like me. I make a distinction between coaching, consulting, and training, and I do all three depending on what you the client needs).
4. Depending on whether it's by phone or in person, the frequency, their level of expertise, etc., the fees can vary from $400 to $2000 or more per month.
Hope that helps. Again, email brad@bradwarren.com for a no-obligation session with me over the phone.

There is lots to answer here. I think it would be easier if we had a quick chat by phone. If you are up for it, send me an email to gene@coreelevation.com

Until then. Gene

My recommendation is to go to the ICF (International Coaching Federation) site http://www.coachfederation.org

You will find great information and answers to your questions. I would recommend that you hire a coach who has invested in their profession by becoming certified or earning their ICF credential.

Most coaches offer a free call or meeting. Come prepared with your questions. Inquire as to the experience level of the coach in your particular area of interest or need. Fees range based on experience, credentials, client base and areas of focus.

Hi - Great question and you've already received some great answers.

Here is a great article, "Don't hire a business coach who can't answer these 7 questions."

http://emyth.com/blog/dont-hire-a-business-coach-who-cant-answer-these-7-questions/#.Uje5Y8u9KSN

The article is writting by an E-Myth coach which I am not certified by... I just happen to like his questions.

Certification, in my opinion, isn't relevant either (and I'm certified). What is relevant? Results.

Google is your friend. If you've short listed a few coaches - google them. Don't be impressed by what the coach is saying, look for what others are saying about the coach... Linkedin endorsements are good... Recomendations are the best. No news is not good news in my opinion. If a coach is good, he/she will leave a trail of positive info.

Where to find a coach? The mall of course ;-) Ask people who you admire and look up to - Do you have a coach? Who did you use? Or... search Linkedin. Do you need a face-to-face coach or would web based coaching be okay (different delivery but just as effective with apps like Skype, GoTo Meeting etc.

What to watch for? If it sounds too good to be true... run. If they guarntee results... run. If they themself don't have a coach... run. Remember, you're interviewing them as much as they're interviewing you - are they asking thought provoking questions??

How much sshould you expect to pay? The better question is, how much are willing to invest (innn YOU). I personally would avoid any coach who charges an hourly rate... I've never met an "hourly rate" coach who makes a full time living and has the wealth and time you're looking for. Look for a program fee... and "program" means that you have access to your coach coach above and beyond your designated sessions with out being charged more.

As well, experience isn't as important as results. You could hire a coach with 10 years experience but can't inspire someone to get results. Or you can hire someone with 9 months experience but has a digital trail of results... make sense?

Lastly, where to find a coach... well, for starters... me. Google me and then give me a call at 403-874-7376. There is no fee for asking questions.

That said, you have 4 other coaches who've answered your question so far who have invested time in YOU. Start with them

Lastly, I beleive in sharing knowledge without expectation... give me a call.

All the best... and congrats for even asking the question.

A great business coach will help you craft achievement that includes success in business and a personal life you can love. I mean what's the point of building power and wealth, if you have no one to share it with.