The Real ROI of Business Coaching for SMEs

In Australia’s competitive economy, small business owners are under increasing pressure to grow, adapt and succeed. But with tight budgets and limited time, many ask, “Is business coaching really worth it?” This article explores the real return on investment (ROI) of business coaching for SMEs, with a sharp focus on results, costs, and how to choose the right support.

What Does Business Coaching Cost?

When considering business coaching, the first question most SME owners ask is: what’s the price tag?

Costs can vary significantly depending on the coach’s experience, delivery method and the depth of support. Business coaching packages in Australia typically fall into these categories:

• Hourly rate: $200 to $750 per hour
• Monthly retainers: $1,750 to $5,000 per month
• Project-based or performance coaching: Ranges from $5,000 to $50,000 over a set period

SBAAS’s Actually Supported Business Coaching offers tailored, high-impact programs that scale with your business’s stage and needs.

While coaching might seem costly at first glance, viewing it as an investment rather than an expense is essential.

Potential ROI

Productivity and Efficiency

Business coaching helps business owners identify inefficiencies, streamline operations and build productive habits. According to the International Coach Federation (ICF), clients report a 70% increase in individual performance and a 67% improvement in teamwork.

Australian SMEs working with SBAAS frequently experience:

• Faster decision-making
• Fewer operational bottlenecks
• Increased employee accountability

Explore how SBAAS helps streamline workflows for profitability and growth.

Revenue Growth

Increased focus, goal setting and accountability contribute directly to better financial performance. Reports suggest that businesses that invest in coaching see an average ROI of 5 to 7 times their investment, with some exceeding 20 times the initial outlay.

Results typically include:

• Growth in recurring revenue
• Improved client retention
• Enhanced pricing strategies

Risk Reduction

With clear guidance, SMEs are better equipped to handle compliance, staffing and market risks. SBAAS’s business coaching also includes insights into Fair Work compliance and regulatory navigation.

Strategic Clarity

Small businesses often get stuck working in the business instead of on it. A coach helps clarify vision, set strategic goals and maintain momentum.

What is the Value of Business Coaching?

Let’s look beyond dollars.

Confidence and Capability

Owners report improved self-confidence, leadership skills and decision-making capabilities. This reduces stress, improves retention of key staff, and builds a healthier business culture.

Independent Perspective

An external coach provides unbiased insights. Unlike internal stakeholders, a coach tells you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear.

Accountability

Having someone track your progress ensures goals don’t fall by the wayside. Accountability drives action.

Access to Expertise

You tap into years of business knowledge, proven systems and industry insights. It’s like adding a high-level strategist to your team without the full-time salary.

Real Client Examples

Brisbane-Based Trades Business

An electrician engaged SBAAS to streamline his quoting process. With coaching, he reduced quoting time by 40%, increased conversion rates and expanded his team from 3 to 6 within 18 months.

Regional Allied Health Practice

Facing burnout, the practice owner turned to business coaching to improve systems and balance. The result? A 30% increase in patient bookings, improved employee satisfaction and two additional locations.

Hospitality Group

Through coaching, this group identified brand gaps, optimised menus and implemented better rostering systems. Monthly profit grew by 22% over six months.

Read more about future-proofing your small business.

How to Choose the Right Coach

Not all business coaches are equal. Consider the following:

1. Proven Experience

Look for coaches with practical experience, particularly in the Australian SME market.

2. Industry Fit

Does the coach understand your industry, whether it’s trades, services, allied health or hospitality?

3. Coaching vs. Consulting

Understand the difference. This guide explains which model fits your business.

4. Tailored Packages

Off-the-shelf coaching often fails. Choose a program built around your business stage and goals. SBAAS offers custom business coaching packages that flex with your growth.

5. Measurable Outcomes

Insist on tracking and data. What gets measured gets improved.

Download our ROI calculator here

Is It Worth It for Your SME?

If you’re:

• Struggling with growth
• Juggling too many roles
• Facing staff or compliance issues
• Lacking strategic direction

Then yes, coaching is worth the investment.

The value doesn’t just lie in financial outcomes. It lies in time saved, confidence gained, and a business that works for you.

Australian SMEs face unique challenges. Whether navigating staffing shortages, rising costs or fast-changing digital demands, having a trusted guide can fast-track success.

Learn more about current small business trends for 2025 and how coaching can align your goals.

The Real Return

When viewed as a long-term investment, the real ROI of business coaching becomes clear. It’s not just about fixing immediate issues but transforming how you lead, operate and grow.

Ready to see what business coaching could do for you?

Explore Actually Supported Coaching or book a conversation with the SBAAS team today.

Sources

• SBAAS Actually Supported Coaching
• Fair Work Compliance for SMEs
• Future-Proofing Australian Small Businesses
• Small Business Trends 2025
• Streamlining Workflows
• 2024’s Top Workforce Trends
• Business Coaching vs. Consulting

International Coach Federation. (n.d.). Global Coaching Client Study.