If you’ve ever looked for help growing your business, you’ve probably come across the terms business consultant and business coach. They often get used as if they mean the same thing, but they’re actually quite different.
Both can be really useful, but they serve different purposes. One focuses on helping the business run better. The other focuses on helping you run the business better.
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What’s the key difference?
A business consultant helps the business itself. They look at things like operations, strategy, systems, or finances and offer specific solutions to improve them.
A business coach works with the person behind the business — the founder, the owner, the leader. Coaching is more about supporting your thinking, helping you make better decisions, and giving you space to step back and see the bigger picture.
What does a business consultant do?
Consultants are usually brought in when there’s a clear problem to solve or something specific to improve. You might bring in a consultant if:
- Your systems or processes aren’t working well
- You’re unsure if your pricing is right
- You want to scale, but your operations are holding you back
A consultant will come in, assess the situation, and offer recommendations. Sometimes they’ll even help implement them. It’s a practical, focused, hands-on role. You’re hiring them for their expertise.
What does a business coach do?
A coach takes a different approach. Instead of fixing the business, they help you think more clearly about it. Coaching is helpful when:
- You feel overwhelmed or stuck
- You’re not sure what to prioritise
- You’ve grown the business but don’t feel in control of it anymore
Coaching is less about giving answers and more about asking the right questions. It’s about giving you space to reflect, challenge your thinking, and make decisions with more clarity and confidence.
Can someone be both?
In some cases, yes. Some professionals have the experience to switch between coaching and consulting depending on what’s needed. That can be useful, especially in more complex situations where you need both practical help and space to think.
But the important thing is knowing what kind of support you need. Good professionals are clear about the difference and won’t try to blur the lines just to sell you something.
In many cases (like if you work with me) you might start with a coaching like initial discussion which will identify different areas where you need support. Some may be personal and require coaching and mentoring. Others may be consulting, such as improving profit or implementing AI to optimise efficiency.
How do you know which one you need?
Here’s a simple way to think about it:
- If there’s a specific issue in your business you want to fix — get a consultant.
- If you’re looking for clearer thinking, better leadership, or personal growth as a business owner — work with a coach.
- If you’re not sure — that’s okay too. A good coach or consultant will help you figure out what kind of support makes the most sense for your situation.
What matters most is not the label, but finding someone who understands where you are and can genuinely help you move forward.
Looking for help with your business?
If you’re a business owner in Yorkshire and looking for a business coach or business consultant then get in touch and let’s have a chat over a coffee and see if I can help you and your business.