Frequently Asked Questions
We've done our best to answer the most common questions prospects have had prior to requesting a session. Click on your question and you'll be taken directly to the answer.
- How Much Do You Charge?
- Where Do I Begin?
- How Do I Ensure That Our work Together Remains Confidential?
- How Do I Pay You?
- What Do You Deliver To Clients?
- What's The Difference Between a Consultant And Coach?
- What Beneifts Do Your Services Provide To Companies and Their Staffs?
- What is Coaching?
- It Didn't Work Before, Why Would It Work Now?
- How Do I Gain The Time I Need To Do It?
- Why Would I Need Your Services If I'm Already Successful?
- How Do You Work With Me If I Don't Want To Create a Strategic Plan?
- What is a Professional Service Business?
- What's a B2B?
- Why Would I Want Email Coaching, Too?
- Do You Want With Men?
- Who Do You Not Want To Work With?
- I Don't Live Near You. How Would I Work With You?
- When I Hire Your Company, Will I Work With Maria?
- Are Your Services Tax Deductible?
- What If I Can't Afford It?
- How Do I Start The Process Hiring Elevating Your Business?
If you don't see your question, please click here to email us.
How much do you charge?
Our fees depend on the type and length of the engagement, along software, number of Performance Systems, CDs, etc. However we charge a flat fee (monthly or by the project) because we don't like to be clock watchers and we want you to know what you need each month to keep your budget in order. All this enables our clients to contact us when they need to without having to worry about the time on the meter. We provide each client with a proposal and contract outlining what's included and we charge separately for travel related expenses.
Here are the ranges of or most popular packages and programs:
- Strategic Planning: $1200 to $15,000 per year
- 1:1 Coaching: $600 to $1999 per month, one year committment
- Groups: $447 to $999 per person
Where Do I Begin?
There are many things to discuss prior to tailoring a program that will provide the results you're looking to acheive. That's why we provide a Exploratory Session to prospects and you can request yours now. We'll talk for 15-20 minute.
How do I ensure our work together remains confidential?
Confidentiality is a hallmark of the work we do with clients (although we appreciate your referrals and testimonials). You not only have my absolute word that our work with you remains confidential, we'll give you a signed Confidentialty Agreement. We will only share information with others when you provide us with written permission.
What payment options do I have?
We accept checks, and major credit cards.
15 Coaching Deliverables
At Elevating Your Business we deliver on these 15 core coaching concepts:
- Perspective: Provides fresh or alternative ways of looking at a situation or context.
- Validation: Validate via encouragement and acknowledgement.
- Message: Share fitting knowledge, opinions, or wisdom.
- Energy: Provide energy and support as needed.
- Solution: Share a solution to a problem or issue.
- Plan: Co-develop a plan of action with the client.
- Structure: Provide support and a check-in structure for the client.
- Resource: Suggest/refer client to experts, books, tools, assessments.
- Options: Expand the number of options the client has available.
- Caring: Care via listening, patience, safety and love (with a NY attitude).
- Training: Train clients in personal and business skills.
- Advice: Provide advice via recommendations and suggestions.
- Strategy: Develop or co-develops a personal or business strategy.
- Challenge: Provide challenges to the client to stretch or make a change.
- Feedback: Offer feedback, observation, insight, ideas and opinion. Maria does this confidentially, with 100% honesty, and her usual no bull-shit let's-get-it fixed appoach.
©1999 CoachU, for use by graduates or students only. Adapted by Maria Marsala, an April 2000 Coach U Graduate
What's the Difference Between a Consultant And Coach?
Here's an analogy to explain the differences between a therapist, coach, consultant and mentor. (NOTE: Maria is not a trained therapist, counselor, accountant, or lawyer - but she can refer you to them!)
- A therapist or counselor helps people to explore their past and fears.
- A consultant will create a plan and tell you what to do with your fears.
- A coach or advisor will provide you with tools, honesty, and support as you move past your fears, step-by-step.
- A mentor will show you how to be courageous.
Six Benefits of Working with a Coach
Coaching is proven to work when two factors are present:
- You are willing to grow.
- There is a huge gap between where you are now and where you want to be.
That's all that is necessary for you and your coach to solve problems, create goals which reflect your values, and above all design then implement a plan of action. You can create a new life direction or plan to ensure that you have what you need to get more of what you want.
With a Coach You Will:
- Take Action - BECAUSE YOU SET THE GOALS YOU REALLY WANT:
Ultimately, humans do only what they really want to do, when they want to do it. Finding out exactly what it is that you really want for yourself and your business is our first task together. Maria will help you to distinguish between what you 'coulda, shoulda, oughta and have-to' from what you truly want for yourself. Once you create the ideal goal that is designed to act in concert with your highest values, you're more likely to naturally and consistently take actions to reach it. - Have a Balanced Life - BECAUSE YOU DESIGNED IT "SELFISHLY":
Sorry, but having it all means starting with a balanced life and you know what that means. It's time to be very, very Selfish. Not egotistical, but Selfish with a capital S. We will show you how to be selfish yet responsible; and how to get your needs met and still be liked by other people! This process is called establishing your Personal Foundation and there are only 25 steps. You'll love building your foundation because you know you're worth it. You need this base if you are to be your Self. - Make & Keep More Money- YOU ARE WORTH MORE THAN YOU'RE MAKING:
Money, money, money! You gotta have it and have a lot more of it than you think. We'll help you increase your business, fill your practice, pay off old bills, set up a financial plan, and design strategies for you to earn more from your professional efforts. (Yes, you really can double your income!) - Reach for More, Much More - AND DON'T BE CONSUMED IN THE PROCESS:
When a client has a partner they can trust, they will always reach for more because they have a foundation of strength, and support. We provide you with experience, feedback, and tried and true methods for success. - Make Better Decisions for Yourself and Your Business: BECAUSE YOUR FOCUS IS CLEAR:
Every single client of Elevating Your Business is smart, smart, and smart! Yet, they still use us. Why? Because they know the value of sharing ideas with someone who understands. Just talking about your options with someone who can listen objectively is enough to have it all become very clear. You'll always be given honest opinions and constructive ideas. - Have a Lot More Sustainable Energy - NO MORE CHUGGING ALONG:
When you're happy, productive, and free from tolerations and problems, you are going to feel better. It's that simple!
©1999 CoachU, for use by graduates or students only. Adapted by Maria Marsala, an April 2000 Coach U Graduate
What Is Coaching?
- The client and coach strive to create a relationship based on trust, that's challenging and supportive.
- The client uses coaching as a resource, taking action weekly to accomplish desired results.
- A coach expects a lot from the client, but will never put the results ahead of the relationship.
Coaching is a Technology of Development
- A coach develops a client's personal foundation so their natural gifts and talents are leveraged and appreciated.
- A coach helps the client find a balance of fully experiencing the present while planning for the future.
- A coach uses advanced personal development tools to assist the clients in their work, and to promote personal, and professional growth.
Coaching is a Form of Consulting
- Like consulting, the client discusses challenges and opportunities and asks for information and advice.
- The client pays a fee, usually monthly for services rendered.
Coaching Focuses on the Entire Person
- A coach helps the client to balance and integrate all areas of life so they work harmoniously.
- A coach helps the client strengthen their communication and relationship skills.
- A coach helps the client clarify values, set goals, develop action plans, and implement them.
©1999 CoachU, for use by graduates or students only. Adapted by Maria Marsala an April 2000 Coach U Graduate
Been There, Done That Already and it Didn't Work
We've seen it all too often, clients who have already invested a lot of time in training and other coaching programs that didn't help.
Maria Marsala is a life-long learner, and has had it happen to her too! Yes, Maria hired coaches and consultants to help her business grow; because there is always something new to learn or something that can be done better. We're not just delivering coaching; we're delivering EdVising™ a mixture of coaching, consulting, advising, and training. Over time, we've found this to work best for our clients.
Action alone is not enough; without the right plan and the right process, it won't work. With our 1:1 or group coaching programs you will create two plans to use as your guides- a life plan and business plan. We provide knowledge, experience, resources, and support to get you through the necessary steps in your businesses development. Many of our clients have told us that they get more in resources from us in 1 week, in their Welcome Kit, than from their previous coaches over 6-12 months. Every resource you receive from us will be used during our time together. And most importantly, you'll take consistent action to reach your goals!
I Don't Have a Minute of Extra Time to Add More Work to My Full Schedule
Here is our guess: You are doing what we call "to doing", in a constant scramble to "get things done". You may never seem to catch up. You aren't focused on the key things that will bring you the most money or free time.
One thing we can guarantee is that when you become focused on strategies that will bring you profits, you will have the time to do more than you ever thought possible. How? We will provide you with tools to get focused! You will eliminate whatever is not working. You will concentrate your time and efforts on those high pay-off activities that will bring you the results you deserve.
If I'm Already Successful, Why Should I Want to Work With You?
If you are here reading this, then chances are, that deep down you want more than you have. You might be like "Mary" who wanted to double her already terrific revenues. Or "Theresa" who wanted to set her business up so it generated 16 million in sales, while she only worked 1 day a month. "Barbara" originally said she wanted to open one branch office; but after prodding her on her "big audacious goals", she admitted that she wanted at least 6 offices! On the other hand, maybe you want to make your business sellable in "x" years and get the most money for your investment. Maybe you want to create products or speak or write a book
No mater what your goals are, we can hel you attain them faster. Let's talk, and find out which program would be the best fit for your situation. Schedule a free Discovery Session today.
I Don't Want to Create A Life, Business or Marketing Plan because ____________ (your excuse here).
Sorry, we're unable to help you. It's imperative that you create plans. We run a tight ship and have a proven system. We will not take on new clients who won't create a roadmap to their greater success.
What is a Professional Service Business?
A service business is a business, company, or executive working as an agent for company whose income is derived by the sale of knowledge, skills, experience, or information. Some service businesses sell products as an extra money making venture. Service businesses range in size with zero to hundreds of thousands of employees.
They go by other names such as well, such as "trusted advisors", "agents", "principals", "service professional" and "independent service professionals." and of course, business owner, CEO and president as well.
Learn more about our Ideal Clients here.
What's a B2B?
It's so interesting to know that many B2B's don't know that they are a B2B! A B2B is a business, company or an executive at a company whose income is derived primarily from working with other businesses or corporations. B2Bs can sell products or services; for instance a CPA who only works only with small business owners, or a copier company who sells to other businesses.
Why Would I Want Email Coaching, too?
As you implement the ideas and strategies we discuss during our phone sessions, you will most likely come up with other questions. You may need a critique on something you're working on, or need another opinion. Email coaching provides you with the option to contact us between calls with questions or requests for feedback. Some clients never contact us in between sessions while others contact us twice a week.
We'll be just an email away, ready to provide you with support. Need something A.S.A.P.? Put "RUSH" in the subject line, otherwise we'll get back to you within 24 hours during the business week.
Do You Work With Men?
Yes, we work with men, We also help non-B2Bs craft a strategic plan or increase your Internet presence. If you feel that the things you've read on this website pertain to you, contact us. We'll provide you with a free 20-minute consultation to see if we're a good match. You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain!
Whom Do You Not Work With?
We no longer work directly with start-ups or solo-business owners who are very happy doing all the work in their businesses themselves. We do work with solo, micro, and small/mid size owners who are growing businesses bigger than themselves (an empire a size of their choosing) and who want a staff, have staff and whose sales are under 10M per year. However, my library of products and programs has a long history of transforming entrepreneurs and small business owners around the world. View the library here
I Don't Live Near You. How Would I Work With You?
We work with clients via phone, Skype, video conferencing, and in person. Years of results have proven that meeting in person is not mandatory. In fact, we have clients that we've never met and other clients we've met during our travel across the county. We've also worked with clients from Canada, Netherlands, New Zealand, Korea, Australia, and the UK.
Maria can travel by plane, car, and train to work with clients and their staff. We can conduct consultations with your staff, conduct workshops, business plan classes, retreats, or conferences. We also conduct a variety of trainings via virtual workshops and webinars
Some of our clients prefer to meet in person at their offices, our offices, in Seattle, or at a favorite retreat center.
Many of our clients will send a photo, which makes our working together a bit more personal. And you know what Maria looks like from viewing the top of this website.
When I Hire Your Company, Can I Choose To Work With Maria?
Yes! You'll work directly with Maria, although you might occasionally hear from her assistant. We will provide you with information or schedule any sessions that you haven't scheduled online. Although Maria does license her products to be used by other coaches and consultants, it's Maria who answers her phone, and Maria who partners with you to help bring you greater success.
Are Your Services Tax Deductible?
Typically small business coaching, consulting, and training is tax deductible as a business expense. Save your receipts for tax time. Executive coaching maybe tax deductible, but it depends on your situation. If you are not sure of the tax consequences, check with your CPA, EA, or accountant BEFORE hiring us.
What if I Can't Afford It?
This is the #1 concern of clients globally (isn't this what you hear most often from prospects as well?) And sometimes it's true, you can't afford our services. But if this is your main concern, the question we have for you is, "What has it cost you to NOT get help?"
If you truly can't afford coaching, we have two special time slots open for clients like you and will put you on a waiting list if you qualify. Click here.
How Do I Start The Process Of Hiring Elevating Your Business?
If you're looking to hire a coach in the next 14 days, complete our Exploratory form or request that we call you to complete the form and schedule a session here.
Is Your Business Ready For Some Coaching?
Learn if your business needs a coach today. Give your business a Business Checkup and learn if you're coachable.
Are You Ready For A Breakthrough?
It's time to become the CEO of your life and business. If you're ready MOVE AHEAD FASTER and ACHIEVE REAL RESULTS, this program is for you.!
