Choosing the right Internet marketing business coach begins with knowing yourself:

* What are your goals for your online marketing business?

* What kinds of people have you enjoyed working with in the past? In particular, make a list of your favorite mentors and list their qualities that made them your favorites.

* How do you learn best? Do you want someone who's good over the phone, who writes clearly, or who has been able to put together graphs and other visuals to help you grasp the concepts behind Internet marketing?

* How much support do you think you'll need? Are you looking for someone who's available daily, or can you wait for that weekly phone call or email session about online marketing?

* How self-motivated are you? Are you looking for straight information on Internet marketing, or do you think you're also going to need a cheerleader in your corner during your down days?

When you know the kind of person you're looking for, it's time to start your search for your Internet marketing coach.

But just because a particular coach seems to have the personal traits and offers the learning style you want, that doesn't make that person the right coach for you.

Here are 5 things to consider when you're searching for your Internet marketing coach:

1. Has this person been successful with their own marketing business? You're heard the joke that those who can't do something teach about it. You don't want a "teacher" when it comes to Internet marketing - you want someone who has actually done the things she or he is telling you to do.

2. What kind of reputation does the coach have in the business? Are others impressed by the coach's success both as an Internet marketer and as a coach?

3. How clear is the contract that the coach has written to define your relationship? Do you know exactly what you'll be getting for your money if you sign up to learn Internet marketing from this coach? Does this coach offer any guarantees or refunds if you're not satisfied with their work for you?

4. Does the coach's availability match your needs? How soon are questions answered?

5. Take a look at the coach's Internet marketing efforts. Are you impressed with his Web sites? Are her articles and other marketing materials put together well?

One reason that Internet marketing works so well for so many people is because the startup costs are so low. But whether you're new to this game or a seasoned player, you're going to want to invest in a coach to help you grow your business.

And like any investment, you want to be sure that the money you spend on your Internet coach is money well spent.

The decision about which coach to choose is almost as important as your decision to become an Internet marketer in the first place. The coach you choose can help you get off to a roaring start... or not. So take the time to find the right Internet marketing business coach for you. You'll be glad you did.