Starting a Coaching Business from Scratch with Sarah Geraghty
The world of work is constantly evolving, and sometimes, that evolution can bring unexpected challenges. For Sarah Geraghty, a seasoned HR professional with over 20 years of experience, that challenge came in the form of redundancy. But instead of viewing it as a setback, Sarah saw it as an opportunity – a chance to finally pursue her long-held dream of starting a coaching business from scratch. Her journey, however, wasn’t without its hurdles. From financial anxieties to self-doubt, Sarah faced them all with unwavering determination. This is her story, a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the transformative potential of investing in yourself.
Sarah’s passion for coaching had been simmering for years. Even while working in the corporate world, she dedicated time to developing her coaching skills, recognizing its potential not just for personal growth but also for empowering others. However, life had a way of putting her entrepreneurial aspirations on the back burner. As a single parent, financial stability was paramount, and the demands of a full-time job often overshadowed her dreams of self-employment. The redundancy, while initially daunting, became the catalyst she needed to finally take the leap.
“It was definitely challenging,” Sarah admits. “When I committed to the certification program, I was still employed. I had mapped out how I would balance everything. Then, things changed. My role was made redundant, and suddenly, I was facing financial uncertainty. The thought of not being able to afford the program was terrifying.”
Many would have faltered at this point, retreating to the perceived safety of traditional employment. But Sarah’s commitment to her dream, coupled with the support she received, propelled her forward. “I remember having numerous calls, even though she was incredibly busy, with Anna [the program leader]. She helped me see how I could make it work, why it would benefit me in the long run. That support was invaluable.”
One of the biggest hurdles Sarah faced was the common struggle of self-doubt. Despite her extensive experience in HR, managing teams, and coaching individuals within the corporate setting, the transition to entrepreneurship brought with it a wave of imposter syndrome. “Even though I knew I could coach anyone placed in front of me, I questioned where I would find clients. There are so many coaches out there, and I struggled with self-belief. It’s that imposter syndrome – what other people see in us, we often don’t see in ourselves.”
Overcoming this self-doubt required a combination of inner strength and external support. The structured curriculum of the Classy Career Girl® Career Coach Certification program, along with the vibrant community of fellow coaches, provided the framework and encouragement Sarah needed to build her confidence. “The program was so comprehensive,” she explains. “It broke everything down into manageable modules, which was crucial for someone juggling multiple responsibilities. And the community was amazing. It felt like I had found my people. We shared wins, encouraged each other, and offered support through the challenges.”
The program’s focus on practical application was also instrumental in Sarah’s success. The requirement to complete a significant number of practice coaching hours allowed her to hone her skills and gain real-world experience. “The practice coaching was a game-changer,” she says. “It took the pressure off having to make a sale right away. I was able to work with volunteers, including business owners, and that gave me the confidence I needed to move forward.”
Since completing the program, Sarah’s business has flourished. She’s now working with clients on a variety of coaching needs, from career transitions to leadership development. She’s also leveraging her HR expertise to provide consultancy services to businesses. “I’m now networking, attending events, and even speaking at schools and business gatherings,” she shares. “These opportunities have led to new clients and exciting projects. I’m starting leadership coaching with a social enterprise next week, and I have business coaching and HR consultancy work lined up as well.”
Sarah’s story is a powerful reminder that career change is possible, even in the face of adversity. Her advice to anyone considering a similar path is simple yet profound: “Take action and get help. Don’t be afraid to invest in yourself and seek out the support you need. The journey may have its challenges, but the rewards are immeasurable.” And as Sarah’s experience demonstrates, sometimes, the biggest setbacks can pave the way for the most fulfilling reinventions. She’s not just a coach; she’s an inspiration, proving that with passion, perseverance, and the right support, you can build the career of your dreams.
If you are starting a coaching business from scratch this is your first step. The Career Coach Start up Kit: https://www.classycareergirl.com/careercoachwebinar/
