Coaching is not a new profession by any means, but we are seeing a surge in the last few years. Between 2019 and 2022, the industry’s revenue shot up by 60%, growing from $2.85 billion to $4.65 billion. And it’s not slowing down anytime soon.
So, if you’ve been dreaming of turning your passion for helping people through coaching into a business, this might be the perfect time. Imagine transforming your skills into something that truly changes lives. Coaching isn’t just about offering advice; it’s about empowering people, helping them overcome challenges, and unlocking their potential in ways they never thought possible. Yes, it can feel like everyone’s a coach these days, but here’s the thing: there’s always room for people who bring real value and transformation to people.
For my coaching journey, I started my career coaching company Workhap in 2019 as a side hustle while working my full-time HR role. I did both for a few months and took it step by step: experimenting with content, figuring out what worked, and building from there. I eventually took the leap and went full-time on my coaching business after building up my personal brand and getting a few client wins under my belt.
Those first couple of years were especially tough as I worked long days and struggled to turn the practice into a profitable business. But in 2021, our video content caught a big break on social media, and operations started falling into place. Thanks to the hard work of my amazing team, we eventually grew Workhap to a six-figure business by our third year.
Your journey will likely have a similar rhythm: slow (or no) progress at first, then a breakthrough over time. To help you get there, here are five tips that helped me and that can help you successfully grow your coaching practice to a six-figure business in 2025.
Define Your Niche And Expertise
Success starts with knowing your lane. What do you excel at? What’s that thing you’re so good at it feels like second nature? Narrowing down your niche not only makes you the go-to expert but also helps you attract clients who trust you to deliver results.
Focus on what excites you most. When you build your coaching business around something you love, you set yourself up for long-term success and a bigger paycheck. When you’re genuinely passionate about what you do, clients feel that energy, and that’s what keeps them coming back for more.
Picture this: you’ve spent ten years running killer social media marketing campaigns. Now, you decide to coach small business owners on leveling up their marketing game. Sure, your expertise makes you credible, but it’s your confidence in yourself and how you relate to your client that seal the deal. Clients want to work with coaches who have been in their shoes and know how to walk the walk. Speak directly to them with your content and messaging, and you will be top of mind when they are thinking of working with a coach.
Create A Business Plan
A clear business plan is your blueprint for turning your dreams into action. Get things rolling by outlining your goals, the services you want to offer, and why you’re stepping into this space. Your mission statement or bio should make it obvious how you’re here to help. When your clients see that clarity, they’ll trust you to deliver.
Next, get to know your audience. Who are your ideal clients? What are they struggling with? The more you know about their needs, the easier it’ll be to shape your services and craft messaging that speaks directly to them. Once you’ve got that nailed down, decide on your coaching model: solo sessions, group programs, or maybe even a mix of both. This choice will shape how you deliver results and manage your schedule.
To take your business to the next level, map out your operational needs, such as software, estimated expenses, and revenue streams. Plan for marketing and future growth, but keep things flexible to stay open to new opportunities. A solid plan keeps you focused and helps your business grow in the direction you want, but don’t get overwhelmed at the beginning. Just starting and having a plan is already a big win.
Build Your Online Presence
Your online presence is your storefront, first impression, and credibility all in one. First up, your website. Think of it as your online home base. It should highlight your services, show off your experience, and include client testimonials that back you up. Add features like a blog or booking system to make it easy for clients to engage with you. There are lots of different options out there, but my personal favorites for simple website builders are Squarespace, Leadpages, and Beacons.
Social media takes things to the next level. Platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook give you the space to share tips, insights, and your unique approach to coaching. Post consistently, jump into conversations, and engage with authenticity. The more genuine you are, the more people will connect with you and your message. In terms of type of content, video is still my favorite form and there is still plenty of room for everyone to win in this space. Your first video will not be great, but that goes for everyone! Just aim to get a little better with each one.
When you combine a simple website with a strong, genuine social media presence, you build trust, credibility, and a community of people excited to work with you. Now, it’s time to deliver on that value!
Offer Free Sessions Or Beta Programs
Trust is everything in coaching. One of the best ways to show people the value you bring is by letting them experience it firsthand through free sessions or a beta program.
A beta program is like a sneak peek of what you offer. You work with a small group of clients, providing your services at a reduced rate or complimentary in exchange for feedback and testimonials. It’s a win-win: you refine your approach while building credibility.
Free offerings can also be effective as you grow your business and your confidence as a coach. Whether it’s workshops, guides, or Q&A sessions, these efforts position you as a helpful, trustworthy coach. Even a single, impactful 1:1 session can showcase the transformation you provide and help clients understand what you truly offer.
Share Your Wins
Building an amazing coaching program is just the start. Growth happens when people know about your work and trust you to deliver. And social proof can make all the difference. Share your clients’ success stories and testimonials wherever you can. Let potential clients see the real impact of your coaching, and if possible, highlight case studies or direct feedback from clients. Hearing about results from someone you’ve helped is far more compelling than anything you can say yourself.
Referrals are another powerful way to grow your business. When clients achieve results they’re excited about, they’re likely to recommend you to others. You can encourage this by creating a referral program that rewards them for spreading the word. Offer perks like additional sessions or complimentary digital guides as a way to show your appreciation and keep the momentum going.
You’ve got the skills, the passion, and the plan. Now’s the time to step up, share your brilliance, and build a coaching business that transforms lives, including your own. Excited to see you grow as a coach in the new year!