Why You Should Avoid Coaches Who Refuse to Answer Questions
Let me tell you a quick story. A friend of mine in Atlanta—let’s call her Sarah—was looking for a life coach to help her navigate a career transition. She found someone with a flashy website and glowing testimonials. But during their first call, the coach dodged every question Sarah asked. “Trust the process,” they said. “You don’t need to know everything upfront.” Spoiler alert: It didn’t end well. Sarah felt dismissed, frustrated, and ultimately wasted her time and money.
Here’s the thing: A good coach doesn’t just talk—they listen. They answer your questions because they understand that you’re the one investing in your growth. If a coach refuses to answer your questions, it’s a red flag. Period.
What Does It Mean When a Coach Avoids Questions?
It’s simple. If a coach can’t or won’t answer your questions, it usually means one of three things:
- They’re hiding something. Maybe they don’t have the experience they claim, or their methods aren’t as effective as they say.
- They don’t respect your time. Your questions are valid. If they brush them off, they’re not prioritizing your needs.
- They’re not confident in their approach. A confident coach can explain their process clearly and address your concerns without hesitation.
Think about it. Would you hire a contractor to remodel your kitchen if they refused to explain their plan? Probably not. The same logic applies to coaching.
Real-Life Example: The Atlanta Coach Who Got It Right
Let’s flip the script. Another friend—let’s call him Marcus—found a coach here in Atlanta who was the complete opposite. From the first conversation, the coach welcomed Marcus’s questions. “What’s your approach?” “How do you measure progress?” “What happens if I don’t see results?” The coach answered every single one, no hesitation. Marcus felt heard, valued, and confident in his decision to move forward. And guess what? He got results.
That’s the kind of coach you want. Someone who’s transparent, confident, and genuinely invested in your success.
FAQs About Choosing the Right Coach
What questions should I ask a potential coach?
Start with the basics: What’s their experience? What’s their coaching style? How do they measure success? Don’t be afraid to dig deeper. If they can’t answer these, walk away.
What if a coach says, “Just trust me”?
Run. Seriously. Trust is earned, not demanded. A good coach will explain their process and give you a clear idea of what to expect.
How do I know if a coach is legit?
Look for credentials, testimonials, and a track record of success. But also pay attention to how they communicate. Are they open and honest? Do they make you feel comfortable? That’s just as important.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, you’re the one in control. If something feels off—like a coach who won’t answer your questions—listen to that feeling. Atlanta is full of amazing coaches who are transparent, experienced, and ready to help you succeed. Don’t settle for less.
Remember, coaching is about you. Your goals, your growth, your future. Choose someone who respects that.