Shara Gabaldon On The Top 5 Trends Shaping the Future of Coaching

An Interview With Chad Silverstein

Digital Transformation: The digital landscape is rapidly evolving, and beauty businesses need to keep up. Coaches are increasingly integrating digital tools and platforms into their coaching strategies to help salon owners and beauty entrepreneurs leverage social media, e-commerce, and online marketing. For example, a beauty business coach might guide a salon owner in creating engaging Instagram content to attract more clients and increase brand visibility.

The world of coaching is undergoing a seismic shift, with emerging trends set to redefine its boundaries and possibilities. From digital transformation and the integration of artificial intelligence to the growing emphasis on mental health and the global rise of coaching cultures within organizations, these developments are reshaping the landscape of personal and professional growth. As we navigate through these changes, understanding the forces that drive the future of coaching becomes paramount. I had the pleasure of interviewing Shara Gabaldon.

Shara is a serial entrepreneur who has founded businesses and worked for different companies. Throughout her years of experience, her biggest success to date is Luxe Beauty & Body Co. Luxe has empowered over 21,000 people to build iconic beauty businesses and unshakeable self-worth by providing in-person and online courses, supplies and coaching support.

Thank you for joining us. To start, could you share your “origin story” with our readers? How did you begin your coaching journey, and what challenges did you face in the early days?

My coaching journey began quite organically within the beauty industry. As a seasoned professional, I found myself consistently approached by eager students seeking advice, guidance, and mentorship. Given my extensive background in business and finance, it was only natural for me to offer insights beyond the realm of beauty techniques. Over time, my knack for coaching and mentoring became apparent, and I found immense fulfillment in guiding others toward their goals.

However, the early days of my coaching venture were not without challenges. Despite my evident success and the tangible value I could provide, I encountered a common hurdle: attracting clients willing to invest in their own growth. While there was a genuine desire for guidance and mentorship, many individuals perceived my services as an expense rather than an investment with a tangible return on investment (ROI).

It was a realization that struck a chord early on — the reluctance to invest in oneself often stems from a mindset shift that distinguishes between expenses and investments. My expertise had the potential to transform businesses and lives, yielding monetary results that far outweighed the initial cost. However, bridging the gap between recognizing the value of my services and embracing them as an investment required a nuanced approach.

Despite the initial challenges, I remained steadfast in showcasing the transformative power of my coaching. Through strategic communication, demonstrating tangible results, and emphasizing the long-term benefits, I gradually shifted perceptions and attracted clients who understood the true value proposition.

Today, as I reflect on my coaching journey, I am reminded that challenges are often opportunities in disguise. Each hurdle I faced propelled me toward refining my approach, strengthening my value proposition, and ultimately, empowering my clients to recognize the profound impact of investing in themselves.

You are a successful business leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?

Analytical Thinking:

• As a beauty business coach, my analytical thinking has been instrumental in deciphering the intricacies of the ever-evolving beauty industry. One notable instance was when a client approached me with declining sales despite having a seemingly successful product line. Through meticulous analysis, I unearthed that the issue lay not in the quality of the products but in the outdated marketing strategies. By delving into consumer trends, competitor analysis, and market research, I devised a comprehensive strategy that revitalized their brand image, resulting in a significant uptick in sales and market share.

Confidence:

• Confidence is the cornerstone of my approach as a beauty business coach. When a prominent beauty entrepreneur sought my guidance in launching a new service, my unwavering confidence in their potential and my expertise instilled trust from the outset. Despite initial skepticism from the entrepreneur regarding market saturation, I remained steadfast in my conviction and presented a compelling vision backed by data-driven insights. My confidence in their venture ultimately propelled them to take calculated risks, leading to the successful launch of a highly sought-after service that garnered rave reviews and loyal clientele.

Communication Skills:

• Effective communication lies at the heart of my interactions as a beauty business coach. In one instance, I encountered a client grappling with internal discord among their team members, hindering productivity and stifling innovation. Through active listening and empathetic communication, I facilitated open dialogue among the team, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual respect. By implementing regular feedback sessions and constructive communication channels, I not only resolved existing conflicts but also nurtured a cohesive team dynamic conducive to creativity and growth. This transformation not only revitalized the client’s business but also empowered their team members to realize their full potential.

Can you share your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Why does that resonate with you so much?

One of my favorite life lesson quotes is by Coco Chanel: “Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.” This resonates deeply with me, especially in my role as a beauty business coach. In the beauty industry, authenticity is key. Clients are drawn to genuine connections and products that reflect their true selves.

This quote serves as a powerful reminder that true beauty is not found in conforming to societal standards or trends, but rather in embracing and celebrating one’s individuality. As a business coach, I encourage my clients to harness their unique strengths and personalities to build successful beauty brands that resonate with their audience authentically.

Furthermore, from a business and finance perspective, this quote underscores the importance of authenticity in building a strong brand identity. In an industry saturated with products and services, businesses that stay true to their core values and beliefs often stand out and attract loyal customers.

Ultimately, “Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself” encapsulates the essence of my approach to both beauty and business — embracing authenticity as the foundation for success and fulfillment.

What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now? How do you think that might help people?

As a beauty business coach with a keen eye for entrepreneurship and a background in business and finance, I’m currently involved in an array of exciting projects that aim to revolutionize the beauty industry. One particularly exhilarating endeavor I’m immersed in is participating in the reality show “The Blox.”

“The Blox” is a dynamic bootcamp-style event designed to nurture and elevate up-and-coming entrepreneurs like myself. Being selected as one of the 80 businesses out of over 80,000 applicants is an incredible honor and speaks volumes about the potential impact of my work. This opportunity not only promises to be a week filled with intensive learning and skill-building but also offers unparalleled networking prospects.

Through “The Blox,” I anticipate gaining invaluable insights and strategies to further empower and support beauty entrepreneurs worldwide. By honing my expertise and forging new relationships within the industry, I aim to enhance the success and sustainability of beauty businesses on a global scale.

Moreover, my involvement in “The Blox” underscores my commitment to continuous learning and growth, which directly translates into better guidance and support for my clients. As I expand my knowledge and network, I am better equipped to provide tailored solutions and mentorship to aspiring beauty entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the complexities of starting and scaling their businesses.

Ultimately, my participation in “The Blox” is not just about personal advancement; it’s about leveraging collective experiences and expertise to drive positive change in the beauty industry. By sharing insights, fostering collaboration, and fostering innovation, I am confident that we can empower individuals to turn their beauty business dreams into reality.

Without saying any names could you share a particularly memorable success story from your coaching career?

I’m a beauty business coach, and I met someone who was really good at doing beauty treatments but wanted to start their own business. They knew how to make people look amazing, but they weren’t sure how to run a business. So, they came to me for help.

Together, we figured out how they could make their business work. We planned things like how to manage money, how to make their services even better, and how to attract more customers.

One big moment was when we came up with new services that nobody else was offering. It got people excited, and soon their business was taking off!

As their coach, I was there every step of the way, helping them when things got tough and celebrating their successes. Now, they’re a big success in the beauty world, showing others that with a bit of help and hard work, they can achieve their dreams too.

Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview about coaching. How has your approach to coaching evolved over the years, and what personal learnings have you applied to your own development?

As a beauty business coach with a background in business and finance, my approach to coaching has evolved significantly over the years. Initially, I relied heavily on traditional business strategies and financial acumen to guide my clients. However, I soon realized that success in the beauty industry requires a unique blend of artistry, entrepreneurship, and interpersonal skills.

One of the most significant shifts in my coaching approach has been the emphasis on personal development. I’ve come to understand that success in any business, especially in the beauty industry, is deeply intertwined with personal growth. I now focus on helping my clients cultivate a mindset of abundance, resilience, and self-belief.

Another key learning has been the importance of holistic coaching. In the beauty industry, success is not just about financial gains but also about fulfillment and well-being. I now incorporate strategies for work-life balance, self-care, and mental health into my coaching practice, ensuring that my clients thrive both professionally and personally.

Additionally, I’ve learned the power of community and collaboration. The beauty industry is incredibly diverse and dynamic, and I encourage my clients to network, learn from each other, and collaborate whenever possible. This sense of community not only enriches their professional lives but also fosters a sense of belonging and support.

Overall, my journey as a beauty business coach has taught me that true success comes from a balance of business savvy, personal growth, and community support. By evolving my coaching approach to encompass these principles, I’ve been able to help my clients not only achieve their business goals but also lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

How do you incorporate feedback into your coaching practice to continuously improve?

In the beauty business, getting ahead means always finding ways to improve. As a beauty business coach who knows her way around finances and running a business, I’ve learned that listening to feedback is key to making my coaching better.

Feedback is like a treasure map. It shows us where we’re doing great and where we need to work harder. So, I make sure my clients feel comfortable sharing what’s on their minds. We chat regularly to see what’s working and what needs fixing. Maybe it’s changing how they promote their products or making their customer service even better. Feedback helps us figure it out together.

I also tell my clients to ask their customers and friends for feedback. Hearing from others helps us see things we might have missed. By making feedback a normal part of our talks, we create a team effort where everyone helps each other improve.

But feedback isn’t just about finding problems; it’s also about celebrating successes. I make sure to cheer on my clients for every little win. It boosts their spirits and makes them want to do even better.

In the end, getting better in the beauty business is all about listening to feedback. By doing that, I help my clients reach new heights in their beauty businesses.

Can you discuss an innovation in coaching that you believe is currently under appreciated but has the potential to significantly impact the field?

Certainly! One innovation in coaching that I believe has tremendous potential, yet is often underappreciated, is the integration of psychological principles into beauty business coaching.

Traditionally, beauty business coaching has focused heavily on practical strategies like marketing techniques and financial management. While these are crucial aspects, the psychological aspect of entrepreneurship is often overlooked. Understanding the mindset and emotional well-being of beauty business owners can profoundly impact their success.

One specific innovation in coaching that merges business acumen with psychological insights is the use of mindset coaching techniques. This approach delves into helping beauty business owners identify and overcome limiting beliefs, fears, and self-doubt that may be hindering their growth. By addressing these psychological barriers, coaches can empower their clients to take bolder actions, make clearer decisions, and persist through challenges with resilience.

Another underappreciated innovation is the incorporation of mindfulness practices into beauty business coaching. Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and visualization, can help entrepreneurs reduce stress, enhance focus, and foster creativity. In the fast-paced and often high-pressure beauty industry, these practices can be invaluable for maintaining a balanced perspective and preventing burnout.

Furthermore, there’s a growing recognition of the importance of holistic wellness in entrepreneurship. Coaching programs that emphasize not only business success but also personal well-being, including physical health, relationships, and work-life balance, are gaining traction. By addressing the whole person, coaches can cultivate greater fulfillment and sustainable success for their clients in the beauty industry.

In summary, while traditional strategies like marketing and finance are essential, innovations in coaching that prioritize psychological well-being, mindfulness, and holistic wellness have the potential to revolutionize the beauty business coaching field. By tapping into these underappreciated approaches, coaches can empower their clients to achieve not only financial success but also fulfillment and happiness in their entrepreneurial journey.

In what ways can coaching address the evolving mental health needs of diverse populations in a digitally connected world?

In today’s digitally connected world, where the pressures of success often amplify stress and mental health challenges, coaching has emerged as a powerful tool to address these evolving needs. As a beauty business coach with a background in business and finance, you’re uniquely positioned to understand the importance of mental wellness in a high-paced industry.

Coaching offers a personalized approach, providing individuals with the support and guidance they need to navigate complex challenges. In the beauty industry, where competition is fierce and trends evolve rapidly, the need for mental health support is more critical than ever.

One key aspect of coaching is its ability to cater to diverse populations. People from different backgrounds and cultures have unique mental health needs, and coaching can be tailored to address these specific challenges. Whether it’s helping a beauty entrepreneur overcome imposter syndrome or assisting a stylist in managing work-life balance, coaching can provide the tools and strategies needed for success.

Furthermore, in a digitally connected world, coaching can transcend geographical barriers. With virtual coaching sessions, individuals can access support from anywhere, making mental health resources more accessible to diverse populations.

By incorporating coaching into mental health care, we can ensure that individuals receive the support they need to thrive in today’s fast-paced, digitally connected world.

How do you foresee artificial intelligence and machine learning transforming the coaching industry in the next decade?

Personalized Coaching: AI and ML algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to create personalized coaching plans tailored to each client’s specific needs. These plans can include strategies for marketing, finance, and operations, ensuring that each beauty business can maximize its potential.

Predictive Analytics: By analyzing trends and patterns, AI can help coaches predict market changes and consumer behavior, allowing them to advise their clients on how to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing industry. This foresight can be invaluable in making informed business decisions.

Enhanced Customer Insights: AI-powered tools can provide coaches with deep insights into customer preferences and behavior. This information can help beauty businesses create targeted marketing campaigns and develop products and services that resonate with their target audience.

Streamlined Operations: AI can automate routine tasks, such as inventory management and scheduling, freeing up time for coaches to focus on more strategic aspects of their business. This efficiency can lead to higher productivity and ultimately, greater success for their clients.

What role do you believe ethical considerations and privacy concerns will play in the future of coaching, especially with the increased use of digital platforms?

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the role of coaching has evolved significantly. As a beauty business coach with a strong foundation in business and finance, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of coaching in guiding entrepreneurs towards success. However, with the increasing reliance on digital platforms for coaching services, ethical considerations and privacy concerns are becoming paramount.

Ethical considerations are at the heart of effective coaching. Coaches are entrusted with sensitive information and are tasked with providing guidance and support that aligns with their clients’ best interests. In the beauty industry, where competition is fierce and personal branding is crucial, maintaining ethical standards is essential for fostering trust and credibility.

Privacy concerns also loom large in the digital age. As coaching moves online, clients may be understandably wary of sharing personal details and business strategies over digital platforms. Ensuring the security of client data and maintaining confidentiality are non-negotiable aspects of ethical coaching practice.

As we look to the future of coaching, striking a balance between leveraging digital platforms for accessibility and ensuring ethical standards and privacy protections is paramount. Technology can enhance the coaching experience by facilitating communication and providing valuable resources, but it must be wielded responsibly.

In my practice as a beauty business coach, I prioritize transparency, consent, and confidentiality. By implementing robust privacy measures and adhering to ethical guidelines, I aim to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can thrive.

Ultimately, the future of coaching lies in our ability to adapt to evolving technological landscapes while upholding ethical principles and safeguarding client privacy. By staying informed, proactive, and committed to ethical practice, coaches can navigate the digital era with confidence and integrity.

Could you list and briefly explain “Top 5 Trends Shaping the Future of Coaching” based on your experiences and insights?

1. Digital Transformation: The digital landscape is rapidly evolving, and beauty businesses need to keep up. Coaches are increasingly integrating digital tools and platforms into their coaching strategies to help salon owners and beauty entrepreneurs leverage social media, e-commerce, and online marketing. For example, a beauty business coach might guide a salon owner in creating engaging Instagram content to attract more clients and increase brand visibility.

2. Holistic Approach: Beyond just focusing on business strategies, coaches are embracing a holistic approach that considers the overall well-being of their clients. In the beauty industry, this means addressing both professional and personal development. A coach might help a beauty entrepreneur not only refine their marketing tactics but also prioritize self-care practices to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

3. Diversity and Inclusion: The beauty industry is becoming increasingly diverse, and coaches are recognizing the importance of inclusivity in their coaching practices. They’re emphasizing the value of representing diverse perspectives and catering to a broader range of clientele. For instance, a beauty business coach might work with a salon owner to develop inclusive marketing campaigns that celebrate diversity and appeal to a wider audience.

4. Sustainability and Eco-consciousness: With growing concerns about environmental sustainability, beauty businesses are shifting towards more eco-friendly practices. Coaches are guiding their clients in adopting sustainable initiatives, such as using organic products, reducing waste, and implementing energy-efficient practices. For example, a beauty business coach might help a spa owner transition to eco-friendly skincare lines and promote their commitment to sustainability as a unique selling point.

5. Remote Coaching and Flexible Learning: As technology enables seamless communication, coaching is becoming more accessible than ever before. Beauty business coaches are embracing remote coaching platforms to connect with clients worldwide, offering flexible learning opportunities tailored to individual schedules and needs. Imagine a scenario where a beauty entrepreneur based in a rural area can access personalized coaching sessions via video conferencing, allowing them to receive guidance and support from experts regardless of their geographical location.

How do you envision the integration of coaching within organizational cultures changing the landscape of leadership and employee development?

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the integration of coaching within organizational cultures is poised to revolutionize leadership and employee development. As a beauty business coach with a solid background in business and finance, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of coaching to drive meaningful change and growth.

Imagine a workplace where leaders aren’t just managers, but also mentors and guides, empowering their teams to reach their full potential. That’s the vision that coaching brings to the table. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, coaching transforms the traditional hierarchical structure into a dynamic ecosystem of support and collaboration.

One of the most significant shifts we’re seeing is in how leadership is perceived. No longer is leadership solely about authority and control; it’s about empathy, understanding, and inspiration. Through coaching, leaders learn to cultivate these essential qualities, becoming not just effective managers, but true visionaries who inspire their teams to greatness.

Moreover, coaching isn’t just for the C-suite. It’s for everyone, from entry-level employees to seasoned executives. By providing personalized guidance and support, coaching empowers individuals at all levels to overcome challenges, develop new skills, and achieve their goals.

But perhaps the most exciting aspect of coaching is its ability to tap into untapped potential. In today’s competitive market, organizations can’t afford to leave talent on the table. Coaching unlocks hidden talents and strengths, unleashing a wave of innovation and creativity that propels businesses forward.

In essence, the integration of coaching within organizational cultures is more than just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in how we approach leadership and employee development. By embracing coaching, organizations can create a workplace where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, driving success and growth in the process.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing the coaching industry today, and how might we overcome it?

As the beauty industry continues to expand, the demand for specialized guidance in the form of beauty business coaching is at an all-time high. However, this burgeoning field faces a significant challenge: the need for credibility and standardization.

The biggest hurdle facing the coaching industry today, particularly in the beauty sector, is the lack of standardized qualifications and credentials. With a low barrier to entry, many individuals can brand themselves as coaches without the necessary expertise or training. This can lead to ineffective guidance, misinformation, and ultimately, a negative impact on the businesses they aim to support.

To overcome this challenge, industry leaders and organizations can take proactive steps to establish and promote recognized standards and certifications for beauty business coaches. By setting clear guidelines for education, experience, and ethics, these standards can help differentiate qualified professionals, instill trust in clients, and elevate the overall reputation of the coaching industry.

As the beauty business coaching industry continues to evolve, it’s essential to address the challenge of credibility head-on. By establishing standardized qualifications and promoting a commitment to excellence, coaches not only enhance their own practices but contribute to the growth and success of the businesses they serve.

What is one long-term goal you have for your coaching practice, and how are you working towards it?

As a beauty business coach with a passion for empowering entrepreneurs, my long-term goal is to impact the lives of 10 clients per month consistently throughout the year. This translates to reaching and positively influencing 120 individuals annually.

My journey into coaching stems from a solid background in business and finance, where I recognized the need for tailored guidance within the beauty industry. Witnessing the potential for growth and success in every aspiring entrepreneur, I embarked on a mission to bridge the gap between passion and business acumen.

To achieve this ambitious goal, I’ve implemented a multifaceted approach. Firstly, I focus on refining my coaching methodologies continuously. This involves staying updated with the latest industry trends, refining my expertise in business strategies, and fine-tuning communication techniques to effectively connect with my clients.

Moreover, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment is paramount. Each client journey is unique, and I strive to provide personalized attention, offering not only business insights but also emotional support and encouragement along the way.

Collaboration is another cornerstone of my strategy. By forging partnerships with industry experts, fostering a community of like-minded individuals, and leveraging networking opportunities, I aim to create a robust ecosystem where entrepreneurs can thrive and learn from each other’s experiences.

Furthermore, embracing technology plays a pivotal role in scaling my coaching practice. From virtual workshops and webinars to leveraging social media platforms for outreach, I leverage digital tools to extend my reach and connect with aspiring beauty entrepreneurs worldwide.

Ultimately, my long-term goal isn’t just about numbers; it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals who dare to dream and pursue their passions. By empowering 120 entrepreneurs annually, I aspire to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the beauty industry, fostering innovation, creativity, and sustainable growth.

How can our readers continue to follow your work?

Visit Luxe’s website and sign up for our e-newsletter at https://luxebeautyandbodyco.com/. Follow us on social media on Instagram @luxebeautyandbodyco and Facebook @LuxeBeautyNBodyCo.

Thank you for offering such valuable insights into the future of coaching. We look forward to seeing your work continue to reach new heights, and we wish you continued success.

About the Interviewer: Chad Silverstein, a seasoned entrepreneur with over two decades of experience as the Founder and CEO of multiple companies. He launched Choice Recovery, Inc., a healthcare collection agency, while going to The Ohio State University, His team earned national recognition, twice being ranked as the #1 business to work for in Central Ohio. In 2018, Chad launched [re]start, a career development platform connecting thousands of individuals in collections with meaningful employment opportunities, He sold Choice Recovery on his 25th anniversary and in 2023, sold the majority interest in [re]start so he can focus his transition to Built to Lead as an Executive Leadership Coach. Learn more at www.chadsilverstein.com