Many advisors have found that a coach can help them reach their long-term business and personal goals. Before you enlist the help of a coach, it is a good idea to understand what to expect — and what will be expected of you.

> Make sure you have a clear idea of your goals. Consider more than the size of your business or revenue; think about personal objectives, such as family, work/life balance and your succession plan.

> Develop a vision for your practice and an accurate way of putting it into words. Your coach will help you bring that vision into focus and articulate it. His or her job will be to work with you to make that vision a reality.

> Expect to be accountable — both to your coach and to yourself. A coaching relationship is like a partnership; you will both be expected to fulfill certain obligations.

> Don’t wait until it becomes obvious you need to make changes; by then, it may be too late. Bring a coach on board when things are going well.

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