ByNan Business Solutions is your go-to coach

LAURIE WEIR

Kevin Savoy is an engineer by trade, and has turned his passion for business into helping others. Named after his sons, Byron and Nathan, ByNan Business Solutions is based in Merrickville, but Savoy is all over the map, both virtually and figuratively. 

After a recent Small Business Advisory Centre business bootcamp for the Starter Company Plus program where Savoy offered six weeks of coaching to recipients of small business grants, he sat down for a Q&A with one of the recipients (WeirView Media) for a peek at what he does and how he helps business owners. 

Here’s our recent Q&A. 

WeirView Media: What inspired you to start ByNan Business Solutions? Was there a specific moment or experience that led you to pursue business coaching?

Savoy: After spending 25 years in leadership, sales, management, and small business coaching roles, I realized that my true passion lay in helping other entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of running a business. The inspiration for ByNan Business Solutions came from witnessing countless business owners struggle with challenges that could be overcome with the right guidance. There wasn’t a single defining moment, but rather a series of experiences where I saw the transformative impact of effective coaching. I wanted to create a company that not only provided solutions but also became a true partner emotionally invested in each client’s success.  I also thought that by naming the company based on our two boys (Byron and Nathan) that it would also reflect my dedication to family and reminding me that their names are associated with it, so make sure the reputation is never sullied.

WVM: What is your unique coaching philosophy, and how does it differ from other business coaches in the industry?

Savoy: My coaching philosophy is built on a solutions-based, systematic approach tailored to each client’s unique needs. What sets me apart is my commitment to being that “unreasonable friend” who pushes you beyond your comfort zone to achieve extraordinary results. Unlike traditional coaches who may offer generic advice, I dive deep into the intricacies of your business and become emotionally invested in your success. I believe that by challenging conventional thinking and fostering a collaborative partnership, we can turn your business into a vehicle that enhances your quality of life.

WVM: You work with businesses across a variety of industries. Are there common challenges you see business owners face, regardless of their industry?

Savoy: Absolutely. Regardless of the industry, many business owners grapple with similar challenges: scaling operations, managing cash flow, retaining talent, and balancing work-life commitments. A common thread is the struggle to move beyond day-to-day tasks to focus on strategic growth. This is where my approach becomes invaluable, allowing business owners to identify bottlenecks and implement effective strategies for sustainable success.

WVM: How do you customize your coaching strategies to fit the needs of businesses of different sizes or sectors?

Savoy: Customization starts with active listening and a thorough understanding of each client’s goals, challenges, and industry dynamics. I conduct an in-depth analysis to pinpoint specific areas that need attention. By leveraging my extensive experience across various sectors, I tailor my coaching methods to align with the unique demands of each business. This ensures that the strategies we implement are not only effective but also sustainable, regardless of the company’s size or industry.

Process and Approach

WVM: Can you walk us through your typical coaching process? What steps do you take to identify the key areas where a business needs improvement?

Savoy: The coaching process begins with a comprehensive assessment where we delve into your business’s current state, including financials, operations, and organizational structure. I also take the time to understand your personal aspirations and how they align with your business goals. By identifying gaps and opportunities, we develop a customized action plan that targets key areas for improvement. This systematic approach ensures that we’re not just treating symptoms but addressing the root causes of challenges.

WVM: Goal-setting is a huge part of coaching. What’s your approach to helping clients set realistic and actionable business goals?

Savoy: I believe in setting SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. We start by defining what success looks like for you, both professionally and personally. Then, we break down larger objectives into smaller, manageable milestones. This makes the journey less overwhelming and provides clear markers of progress on the roadmap. Regular reviews and adjustments are part of the process to ensure that goals remain aligned with evolving business landscapes and personal aspirations.

WVM: You mention holding clients accountable for their commitments—how do you help them stay on track and motivated, especially during difficult times?

Savoy: Accountability is a cornerstone of my coaching approach. I establish regular check-ins to monitor progress and address any obstacles. During challenging times, I offer both emotional support and practical solutions to keep clients motivated. As that “unreasonable friend,” I encourage them to push past perceived limitations while reminding them of the bigger picture—the improved quality of life that awaits them through their business success.

WVM: How do you balance providing emotional support with offering tough love when needed?

Savoy: It’s about building a relationship based on trust and mutual respect. I strive to create a safe space where clients feel comfortable sharing their fears and challenges. While empathy is essential, I also believe in being candid when necessary. Tough love is about offering honest feedback and challenging clients to rise above their comfort zones, all while supporting them emotionally through the process.

Impact on Clients

WVM: Can you share a success story of a client whose business was transformed through your coaching? What were the biggest changes they saw after working with you?

Savoy: One of my clients was a small retail business owner struggling with declining sales and high team member turnover. Through our coaching sessions, we identified that the root issues were ineffective marketing strategies and a lack of team engagement. We implemented a targeted marketing plan and introduced team-building initiatives. Within six months, the business saw a 40 per cent increase in sales and a significant improvement in team member retention. The most rewarding change was the owner’s renewed passion for the business and a better work-life balance, which enhanced their overall quality of life.

WVM: What feedback do you often receive from clients after they’ve worked with you? What results do they value most?

Savoy: Clients often express gratitude for the personalized, solutions-based approach that not only addresses their business challenges but also impacts their personal well-being. They value the emotional investment and accountability that help them achieve goals they initially thought were out of reach. Many highlight how their businesses have become vehicles for a better quality of life, allowing them more freedom, financial stability, and personal fulfillment.

Industry Insights and Trends

WVM: In your experience, how has business coaching evolved over the years, especially with the shift to more digital and remote work environments?

Savoy: Business coaching has become more accessible and dynamic due to technological advancements. The shift to digital platforms has allowed for more flexible coaching arrangements, including virtual sessions and real-time collaboration tools. This evolution has also expanded the reach, enabling coaches to work with clients across different regions without geographical constraints. Additionally, there’s a growing emphasis on integrating digital strategies into business models, making it imperative for coaches to stay updated with the latest technological trends. We are actually in the beta development stages of what will become the most accessible business coach in the world —24/7 custom business coaching for the price of a streaming service. Keep an eye out for iTrepreneur.AI!

WVM: What trends or challenges do you see emerging for small business owners in the region?

Savoy: Small business owners are facing increased competition and the need to adapt to digital marketplaces. There’s a rising trend of consumers preferring online shopping and services, which requires businesses to enhance their digital presence. Additionally, attracting and retaining skilled team members is becoming more challenging due to urban migration. However, there’s also a strong sense of community support that businesses can leverage by participating in local events and partnerships.  The biggest challenges however are not geographical in nature, they are rooted in the habits and behaviours of the business owners and that is a big part of our dedicated custom approach.

Personal Insights

WVM: What is the most rewarding aspect of your work as a business coach?

The most rewarding aspect is witnessing the transformation of my clients—not just in their businesses but in their personal lives. Knowing that I’ve played a part in helping them achieve their dreams and improve their quality of life brings me immense satisfaction. It’s fulfilling to see clients break through barriers and reach milestones they once thought were unattainable.

WVM: What advice do you have for new entrepreneurs or business owners who may hesitate to invest in a coach?

Savoy: Investing in a coach is investing in your future success. A coach provides not just expertise but also accountability and emotional support. They can help you avoid common pitfalls, accelerate your growth, and turn your business into a vehicle for a better quality of life. If you’re hesitant, consider the cost of missed opportunities and prolonged challenges versus the benefits of guided, strategic growth. Now keep in mind that anybody can call themselves a coach.  There are no structured certifications. That being said, if a prospective coach can’t show you a tangible, structured and clear plan of how they will help you achieve massive results, then you should probably look for a different coaching solution.

WVM: How do you stay motivated and continue growing in your role as a coach?

Savoy: Continuous learning and personal development are essential. I stay motivated by engaging with other professionals, attending workshops, and keeping abreast of industry trends. I would also say that MY business coaches have had the most positive impact on my business and my desire to maintain my motivation and growth mindset over the past 13 years.  Each client presents a new challenge and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, which fuels my passion. Seeing the tangible results of my coaching in my clients’ successes is a constant source of inspiration.For more with Kevin Savoy, or to set up some business time, email www.bynanbusinesssolutions.com or visit his website: coach@bynanbusinesssolutions.com