Starting a coaching business is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to begin. Whether you’re looking to help people transform their lives, build your own profitable business, or both, the good news is you don’t need a perfect strategy to get started—you just need a solid foundation.

This step-by-step guide on how to start your coaching business will help you get started with confidence, so you can make an impact and create the life you’ve always wanted.

Why Coaching? (And Why You’re Perfect for This)

Coaching is more than just a business; it’s a calling. The transformations you help people achieve are life-changing, and there’s no reason you can’t build a sustainable business around that passion. Starting a coaching business gives you the freedom to:

• Help others create real transformations
• Earn money while doing something meaningful
• Have total control over your schedule
• Work from anywhere

You don’t have to choose between purpose and profit—you can have both. If you’ve been wondering how to start your coaching business, this is the perfect place to begin.

Step 1: How to Find Your Coaching Niche and Attract Ideal Clients

One of the biggest mistakes new coaches make is trying to help everyone. If you want to stand out and attract clients, you need to find your coaching niche. Ask yourself:

• Who do I love working with?
• What specific problems am I best at solving?
• What results can I confidently deliver?

Example niches:

• Helping moms start online businesses
• Guiding burned-out professionals into purpose-driven careers
• Coaching entrepreneurs to overcome self-doubt and increase income

If you’re feeling stuck, take a look at this guide to finding your niche to help you pinpoint exactly who you’re meant to serve. 

The more specific you are, the easier it will be for your dream clients to say, “That’s exactly what I need!” This is the first step in how to start your coaching business and make a meaningful impact.

Step 2: Build Confidence (Even If You Don’t Feel Ready Yet)

You might be thinking, “What if I’m not good enough?” But trust me—you don’t need to be perfect to help people. Your unique life experiences and personal story already make you powerful.

If you want to build more confidence and credibility, here are a few ways:

• Workshops and books
• Practice coaching by offering free or discounted sessions to get testimonials
• Mentorships or group coaching programs to learn from others in the field

Just remember, you don’t need to have it all figured out on day one. Start with what you have and keep learning as you go.

Step 3: Plan Your Coaching Business Without Overthinking Everything

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the details. Let’s simplify it:

• Decide on your offers – Will you focus on 1:1 coaching, group programs, or online courses?
• Set your prices – Research what other coaches in your niche are charging and price accordingly. Don’t undervalue the transformation you’re providing.
• Create a schedule that works for you – You don’t have to be available 24/7. Find a balance that fits your lifestyle.

Starting small is perfectly fine. You don’t need to have everything in place to begin. With these steps, you’re well on your way to starting your coaching business.

Step 4: Market Your Coaching Business & Attract Clients

You don’t need a fancy website or a huge social media following to get started. Here’s what you do need:

• A simple website (or even just a booking page)
• A social media presence where you share value and connect with potential clients (Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook—pick one)
• Discovery calls or consultations to connect with interested clients

Show up authentically. Share your story. Offer value. And people will begin to trust you and want to work with you. This is the essence of how to start your coaching business and grow it into something impactful.

FAQ: Quick Answers to Your Biggest Questions

Do I need a certification to be a coach?
No, you don’t need a certification to start a coaching business. While some coaches get certified, many successful coaches have built their business without formal credentials.

How do I find my first clients?
Start by sharing what you do with your community, whether it’s on social media, through networking, or offering free discovery calls. Word of mouth works wonders, especially when you’re just starting.

How much should I charge as a new coach?
Pricing depends on your niche and target audience, but it’s important not to undervalue your services. Research what other coaches in your niche are charging, but remember: you are worth what you believe your transformation is worth.

Final Thoughts: Take the First Step

Starting your coaching business can feel scary, but every successful coach started where you are now—excited but unsure.

Your action step: Pick one thing from this guide and do it today. Define your niche. Post about your coaching. Offer a free session.

Taking the first step, no matter how small, is the key to building momentum. You’ve got this. Now, go ahead and take that first step to start your coaching business.

xo, Brittany