How to start an Online coaching business From Scratch (that makes Money Fast!)

As of 2024, the coaching industry continues to boom. It is currently valued at $5.34 billion, with an expected growth rate of 15.43% within the year.¹ This growth reflects a greater demand for personal and professional development.

Ready to join the movement? Want to help others while aiming for a six-figure income?

Are you wondering: how to start an online coaching business? In this article, I will give you all the insider tips. Drawing on my expertise, I’ve helped over 600 coaches launch successful online businesses. You’ll learn proven strategies that work.

what is an online coaching business?

Online coaching business involves delivering transformative products and services via the internet. These sessions can occur through video calls. Whether you’re coaching in life skills, business, or fitness, you can connect with clients globally from your home.

Running an online coaching business is rewarding and profitable. There’s a big market and high demand for personalized online coaching. This creates great opportunities for coaches.

Benefits of Running An Online Coaching Business

Wider Client Base: Online coaching breaks geographic barriers, enabling coaches to reach clients beyond their local area.
Flexibility of Location: Coaches have the freedom to work from anywhere, whether it’s their home, a local café, or while traveling.
Increased Profitability through Specialization: Specializing in niche areas can lead to a more lucrative business as it caters to specific client needs and preferences.
Low Start-up Costs: Starting an online coaching business requires minimal investment, primarily needing only stable internet access and a functional device.
Scalability: Online coaching provides various scalable options, from one-on-one sessions to group coaching or creating digital products, allowing for diverse revenue streams.

Begin Your Online Coaching Journey in 5 Steps

Select A Niche
Set Up Your Website
Create Your Coaching Program
Choose a Platform
Build Your Network

1. Select A Niche

A study by the ICF (International Coach Federation) found that an astonishing 82% of coaching businesses fail within the first two years.² A major reason why coaches fail is because they don’t choose the right niche. In an online coaching business, focusing on a specific niche is key. Instead of coaching broadly, target clients who need specific help in your area of expertise.

Here’s a simple way to identify your niche. Here, we make use of the Niche Diamond:

Are You Passionate About Your Niche?
You need to be passionate about who you are helping. Your passion will drive you to understand your clients’ needs, dreams and fears. This will help you find better coaching solutions for your clients.

Is Your Niche Abundant And Easy To Reach?
Find a niche that can give you abundant clients. Don’t select a niche that has very few people or isn’t easily accessible.

Can They Pay You?
Determine whether your clients have the financial capability to pay you or not. For example, let’s say your niche is to help people get people back on their feet after filing for bankruptcy. Your clients are already in a financially distressed state where they are struggling to make ends meet. Do you think they will be able to pay you though you might deliver immense value to them? So, always select a niche where clients can pay you for your coaching services.

Are You Solving A Problem Worth Paying For?
How much someone pays to fix a problem depends on how much it bothers them. Make sure your clients really feel the pain of their problems. Only then they would be willing to invest in you.

2. Set Up Your Website

Your website is the most important detail for attracting potential clients. It’s an ideal platform to promote your services and resources. Create content that clearly shows how you can help improve people’s lives.

Here are some dos and don’ts for your coaching website:

If you’re considering starting or revamping your coaching website, you might find my article on the best WordPress themes for coaches quite useful. It’s packed with tips to enhance your online presence.

Businesses with simple websites often perform better than those with complex, flashy designs. Research indicates that given 15 minutes to consume content, two-thirds of people would prefer to engage with a website that is beautifully simple rather than overly complex.

3. Create Your Coaching Program

Your coaching program should reflect your unique selling proposition (USP). Design it to help clients overcome specific challenges in your niche. Focus on common issues. Provide solutions and resources to manage and overcome these problems effectively.

Set Objectives: Start by defining what your program aims to accomplish. Think about the specific improvements or changes you want participants to experience.

For example, if you’re coaching new managers, your objective could be to enhance their team leadership skills effectively within three months.

Develop the Program Content: Organize your coaching material into a series of progressive steps or modules that build on each other. Include practical examples and interactive elements to keep learners engaged.

For instance, for a management skills program, you might have sessions on communication, delegation, and conflict resolution.

Decide the Pricing: Choose a pricing strategy based on your target audience. For low-ticket clients, you should offer a basic package that’s more affordable.

For high-ticket clients such as corporations or top professionals, set a higher rate. For example, a basic course could be priced at $200. A comprehensive program offering extensive personal coaching could be priced $2000.

4. Choose the Right Platform & Tools

To deliver online coaching, you need the right technology. I have created a roadmap to help you understand just what needs to be done.

Like I said before, first, you need a website. This is where clients find you and learn about your services. For creating your website, you can use WordPress. It’s easy and flexible.

Next, choose a Content Management System (CMS). This helps you create and manage your digital content. You can build your coaching program modules using platforms like Teachable or Kajabi. These tools let you design courses online easily.

Make sure your website has a clear call to action (CTA), like “Enroll Now”. This button makes it easy for clients to know how to sign up for your coaching.

For scheduling appointments, use Calendly. This tool helps you book sessions without conflicts or missed appointments. You can set it up so clients choose from available times.

For conducting sessions, use Zoom or Google Meet. Both platforms are great for video calls, and they let you interact with your clients face-to-face, online.

Finally, manage your tasks with Asana. It helps keep your coaching tasks organized and on track.

5. Build Your Client Base

Building your client base is essential for your business’s longevity. Running an online business is challenging—you must market, convert prospects and retain clients.

It’s important to showcase what makes you unique. Highlight your distinct qualifications, experiences, and your personal journey—this can resonate strongly with potential clients.

Marketing Strategies That Work

Use Email Marketing: Most people check their email daily. If you’re a nutrition coach, for example, you could send out weekly emails with tips on preparing healthy snacks quickly. Include a call to action (CTA) in each email encouraging sign-ups for your coaching program.

Create Extra Value: Offer additional resources like an ebook or an infographic. This approach helps establish you as an expert and demonstrates your ability to provide value. You could offer these resources for free on your website to attract more visitors.

Leverage Testimonials: Testimonials are powerful tools. They back up your claims and prove your legitimacy. Since 70% of online shoppers read reviews first, having testimonials can be an effective way to enhance your credibility.

Encourage Referrals: Ask your current clients to refer you to others. This can be one of the most effective ways to gain new clients if you provide incentives for referrals.

How much does it cost to start an Online coaching business

The cost to start an online coaching business can vary widely but generally ranges from $1,000 to $5,000. This includes expenses for legal fees, website creation, and initial marketing efforts​​.

These costs are initial investments for setting up your online coaching business.

Cost of Registering your Business (depending on your location): You need to register your coaching business name. The cost will vary according to location. For example, forming an LLC (Limited Liability Company) typically involves fees from $50 to $500.

Laptop and Internet Access: I assume you already have a laptop and who doesn’t have internet these days.

Website: You can spend up to $1000 to build a professional website. I recommend new coaches to have a simple website that just reflects your brand.

Online Platforms and Tools: Some popular platforms and tools are worth investing in for virtual meeting space. These include Zoom ($14.99/month for Pro plan), Kabaji ($119/month for Basic plan) and Thinkific ($49/month for Basic plan).

My top 3 Tips Success

Scaling up your online coaching business requires strategic effort and smart planning. Here are my 3 top tips for expanding your coaching business effectively.

1. Adopt The Edutainment Principle

Education + Entertainment = Edutainment

When you develop your course material, aim to educate while entertaining. No one wants to listen to boring lectures. Use stories, humor, and interactive elements to keep your audience engaged.

Offer sneak peeks of your courses with video pop-ups or sample lessons to entice potential students. Make these previews lively and engaging. Offer them a glimpse of how you can transform their lives.

2. Seamless User Experience and Clear CTAs 

Ensure your website is intuitive and straightforward, with prominent CTAs like “Enroll Now” or “Book A Call.” Every step from browsing to enrollment should be smooth.

Often, potential students or customers might see your content but not know how to proceed. Your CTAs should be unmistakable and guide users exactly where they need to go next. Use simple, direct language to ensure no one is confused about how to take the next step.

3. The 2 Call Process

The two-call process consists of an opening call where you build up the need for your coaching services, followed by a closing call to finalize the deal.

First Call – Open Their Eyes
In your first call, your main job is to chat with the potential client and really dig into what they need help with. Show them how your coaching can solve their problems and get them excited about the possibilities. Think of it as setting the stage—your goal is to make them see why they need your help. Make sure you end this call by scheduling a follow-up, which leads us to the second call.

Second Call – Seal the Deal
Now, in your second call, it’s all about getting a commitment. You’ve already talked about their needs and how you can help, so this call should focus on clearing up any doubts and locking in the agreement. Be clear and confident, reiterate the key benefits, and guide them on how to officially sign up.

Avoid these 4 mistakes

Coaching is a highly competitive industry. What may seem like minor oversights can significantly impact your business. Be mindful to avoid these common pitfalls.

1. Trying to make a product for everyone

This will only amplify your problems. Don’t go for this ‘one size does fits all’ approach. For example, as a health coach, you might create a weight loss program that you believe could suit both retirees and women suffering from PCOS.

However, these two groups have distinct needs and challenges. Retirees might require a gentler exercise regimen due to age-related physical limitations. In contrast, women with PCOS may need a program that addresses insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance.

By trying to make a one-size-fits-all solution, the program fails to effectively address the specific health concerns and goals of each group. Resulting in dissatisfied clients and bad reviews.

2. Not knowing your ideal clients

You should have a clarity of what kind of clients you want to work with. Begin by mapping out their demographic and psychographic profiles.

These profiles include basic statistics like age and occupation. They also cover values, challenges, and aspirations. Understanding these aspects helps determine the best channels for outreach.

For instance, if your target audience includes working professionals, LinkedIn could be a key platform for engagement.

3. Not taking into account the client’s feedback

Your client’s feedback is the ideal way of knowing what is going good and what has to be refined. This will help you to improve your services.

I personally like the idea of anonymous feedback since it gives the client the opportunity to put his/her opinion freely. (try it once!)

4. Worrying much about how to scale fast

Many new coaches make this fatal mistake of scaling fast. Concentrate on building a value coaching business rather than a vanity one.

Just keep hustling. Understand that slow and organic growth is the need of the hour. Rome wasn’t build in a day!

Daily Challenges In Life Of An Online Coach

Every online coach faces obstacles. Here’s how you can handle some of the most common ones effectively.

1. Client Acquisition

Finding clients is a common challenge for new online coaches. To attract clients, focus on building a strong online presence. Create valuable content, such as blogs or free workshops, that showcases your expertise.

Engage on social media platforms and consider paid advertising to reach a broader audience. Networking with other professionals can also lead to referrals.

2. Time Zone Differences

Dealing with time zone differences can be tricky, especially when scheduling sessions with international clients. 

Use scheduling tools like World Time Buddy to easily compare time zones and find suitable meeting times. Communicate clearly and plan sessions in advance to avoid confusion and last-minute cancellations.

3. Maintaining Client Engagement And Retention

Keeping clients engaged and ensuring they return can be a significant challenge. To boost client retention, ensure that each session delivers value and is tailored to the client’s specific needs and goals.

Regularly check in with clients via email or messaging platforms to keep them engaged and motivated between sessions. Consider implementing loyalty programs or special offers that reward clients for their continued business. 

These strategies can help maintain interest and commitment from your clients, making them more likely to stick with your coaching over time.

These practical steps can help you tackle common challenges in online coaching. They make your practice more efficient and expand its reach to a wider audience.

How Is An Online Coaching Business Different From An Offline One?

Offline coaching businesses have been around for many years, and they are still a popular option for people who want to receive personal training. 

However, online coaching businesses offer some unique advantages that set them apart from traditional offline businesses.

1. Flexibility And Location

One of the key differences between an online and offline coaching business is the location of the business. An offline coaching business is typically run from a physical location, such as a studio, office or home.

An online coaching business can be run from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. This is great for those who are busy or live in different time zones, as they can access your services 24/7.

2. Technology And Equipment Requirements

You’ll need to invest in to make your online coaching business successful. This may include a website, online coaching software, communication tools and a payment gateway.

For offline coaching, having the right equipment and infrastructure is crucial to delivering effective training sessions. Physical setup like comfortable seating, adequate lighting, and appropriate climate control can significantly impact the learning environment. 

Traditional tools such as whiteboards, flip charts, and projectors are essential for visual presentations. The physical space for offline coaching needs to be versatile to suit various coaching styles, whether it’s group workshops, individual sessions, or larger seminars. It’s essential to ensure that every participant can fully engage with the content being delivered

3. Price Points

The pricing models between online and offline coaching can vary considerably. Offline coaching often involves higher overhead costs due to physical space requirements, which can lead to higher prices for clients. 

In contrast, online coaching eliminates many of these overhead costs, potentially allowing for more flexible and lower price points. This affordability can make services more accessible to a broader audience, increasing the coach’s potential client base. 

Furthermore, online coaches can offer a range of pricing tiers, from one-time consultation fees to subscription models, providing options that can suit different budget levels.

So, what’s the verdict? An online coaching business has several key advantages over an offline one, including affordability, 24/7 access and global reach. If you’re looking to start a coaching business, it’s definitely worth setting it up online. It might seem a little scary at first, but you’ve got support. We’re here to help you make a business that changes lives and makes you money.

Conclusion

All you need to set up an online coaching business is a laptop and internet connection. This completely remote coaching model as gained significant popularity post-pandemic.

I’m here to help you with your online coaching business. Feel free to leave comments and ask for any advice!

1. Business Coaching Industry Statistics: Market Size 2024.” ProfileTree, 2024, https://profiletree.com/business-coaching-industry-statistics/. ↩︎
2. International Coach Federation. 2016 ICF Global Coaching Study: Executive Summary. 2016, https://coachfederation.org/app/uploads/2017/12/2016ICFGlobalCoachingStudy_ExecutiveSummary-2.pdf. ↩︎