How to get your first (or next) 3 coaching clients

Author

Kavit Haria
November 26, 2024

Hey there,

If you’re a coach struggling to get your first clients—or just hit a dry spell—I’ve got good news. You don’t need a fancy website, ads, or a massive following to land your next three clients.

You just need a system that works.

Step 1: Start With Your Warm Network

Most new coaches skip this step because it feels “awkward” or “not professional enough.” But here’s the truth: the people who already know you are the most likely to trust you.

Here’s what to do:

  1. Make a list of 20 people who would either be interested in coaching or know someone who might be.

  2. Send them a simple message:

“Hey [Name], I’m launching a coaching program to help [specific type of person] achieve [specific result]. If you know anyone who might be interested, I’d love for you to connect us. Thanks so much!”

Keep it simple and personal. You’ll be surprised how many leads this generates.

Step 2: Create a Quick Win Offer

People love to say yes to something small and tangible. Instead of pitching long-term coaching packages, start with a 60-90 minute paid session focused on solving one specific problem.

Here’s an example:

  • For a health coach: “Book a 90-minute session to create your personalized meal plan for the next 30 days.”

  • For a business coach: “Let’s spend an hour mapping out your strategy to hit your next $10K month.”

Price it low enough to feel like a no-brainer but high enough to position you as an expert. (Think $97–$297.)

Promote it on your social media, send it to your email list, or offer it directly to warm leads.

Step 3: Leverage Social Proof

Even if you’re just starting, you can use testimonials, case studies, or personal stories to build trust. If you don’t have past clients, ask your beta clients or peers for feedback on how you’ve helped them.

Post a short story like this on social media:

“Just wrapped up a coaching session with [Client’s First Name]. They came in feeling [problem] and left with [specific outcome]. Helping people get these kinds of results is why I do what I do. If you’re looking for support with [topic], let’s chat.”

Better yet if you include a pic or video testimonial. 

Step 4: Make Direct Offers

Most coaches wait for clients to find them. Don’t. Proactively reach out to people who you think might benefit from your coaching.

Try this:

  1. Identify 5–10 people in your network who fit your ideal client profile.

  2. Send them a direct, thoughtful message:

“Hey [Name], I’ve been thinking about you because [specific reason they’re a good fit]. I’m offering coaching to help [specific problem they have], and I think it could be a great fit for you. Would you be open to chatting about it?”

Personalization is key here. Focus on how you can help them, not just on selling your service.

Step 5: Offer a Free Workshop

This is your chance to showcase your expertise to a larger group while building trust and relationships.

Here’s how to set it up:

  • Pick a topic your ideal clients care deeply about (e.g., “How to Overcome Self-Doubt and Build Unshakable Confidence”).

  • Host a 30-minute Zoom session.

  • End with an invitation for attendees to book a 1:1 coaching call with you.

You can promote this workshop on social media, through your email list, or by personally inviting your network.

The Bottom Line: Getting your first (or next) coaching clients doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Start by leveraging the people and tools you already have, focus on creating quick wins, and don’t hesitate to make offers.

The truth is, people need what you have to offer. Your job is to show up and let them know you’re here to help.

- Kavit 

P.S. Here are a few more ways I can help you whenever you’re ready…

→ Launch and grow a profitable 6-, 7- or 8-figure coaching business

→ Turn coaching into a productised, systemised business

→ Build a “coaching flywheel” to attract clients magnetically

→ Launch & scale a membership community of your dream clients

→ And lots more… a