Starting a coaching business with no experience might sound intimidating. You might wonder, “Why would anyone pay me for advice when I’m not an expert?” But here’s the truth—every successful coach started from scratch.
Think about it: The best fitness trainers weren’t born with six-packs. The most inspiring life coaches weren’t always successful. They all had to start somewhere, build knowledge, and gain credibility.
Coaching isn’t about being the ultimate guru with decades of experience. It’s about guiding people through challenges you understand and helping them get results. If you’ve solved a problem in your own life or helped others in any way, you already have the foundation to become a coach.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the exact steps to start a coaching business from scratch even with no experience. I’ll also bust some myths, share practical strategies, and show you that you don’t need a fancy degree to make an impact.
Let’s get started!
1. Choose Your Coaching Niche: You Can’t Be Everything to Everyone
One of the biggest mistakes new coaches make is trying to help everyone with everything. That’s a recipe for frustration and failure.
Imagine you’re feeling stuck in your career, and you’re looking for a coach. Would you trust someone who says, “I help with career growth, fitness, relationships, mindset, and business strategy”? Probably not. But if someone says, “I help professionals land their dream jobs in 90 days,” that’s much more compelling.
How to Find Your Coaching Business Niche with No Experience
You don’t need years of experience to find your coaching business niche—you just need to solve a specific problem. Ask yourself:
- What do people naturally come to me for advice on?
- What challenges have I overcome in my life?
- What am I passionate about teaching others?
- What topic can I research and talk about for hours?
Examples of coaching niches:
- Life Coaching: Productivity, mindset, goal-setting
- Business Coaching: Entrepreneurship, freelancing, marketing
- Health Coaching: Fitness, weight loss, stress management
- Relationship Coaching: Dating, marriage, communication skills
- Career Coaching: Resume building, interviews, leadership
Don’t overthink it. Pick a niche that excites you and start from there.
2. Build Your Knowledge (Without Needing a Degree)
Some people believe they need a coaching certification before they can start a coaching business. While certifications can help, they aren’t required. Many successful coaches never got certified—they learned, applied, and built credibility through results.
How to Gain Knowledge Fast
The goal is to absorb knowledge and apply it. The more you practice, the faster you build confidence. Here are some good ideas:
1. Self-Education: Learn from Books, Courses, and Podcasts
You don’t need a formal degree to become a great coach, but you do need to invest in your own learning. Start by reading books written by successful coaches in your niche—these are packed with strategies, insights, and real-world examples. Online courses are another excellent way to build knowledge, whether through platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or specialized coaching programs like Coach Training Alliance and iPEC Coaching.
Podcasts are also a goldmine of wisdom. Listening to industry experts share their experiences and success stories can give you new ideas, keep you motivated, and help you stay updated on the latest trends. Some great coaching-related podcasts include The Life Coach School Podcast by Brooke Castillo and The Mind Your Business Podcast by James Wedmore.
2. Learn from Others: Observe and Model Successful Coaches
Success leaves clues. Instead of trying to reinvent the wheel, follow top coaches in your niche and study their methods. Watch their free webinars, read their blog posts, and analyze how they engage with their audience. Take note of their coaching frameworks and how they structure their programs. For example, coaches like Tony Robbins (TonyRobbins.com) and Marie Forleo (MarieForleo.com) offer valuable insights into coaching strategies and business growth.
With little or no experience, you need to pay close attention to the way these experts communicate, the problems they solve, and how they position themselves as authorities. Join coaching groups or online communities such as The International Coaching Federation (ICF) (coachingfederation.org) or Coaching Success Facebook Groups. Engaging in these spaces allows you to absorb lessons from experienced coaches, ask questions, and gain insights that you might not find in traditional courses.
3. Practice Coaching: Gain Experience by Offering Free or Low-Cost Sessions
The fastest way to become a confident coach is to start the coaching business, even if you don’t have any experience. Offer free or low-cost sessions to friends, family, or online communities to practice your skills and gain experience. This allows you to test your coaching style, see what works, and refine your approach in a low-pressure environment. Not only will you gain confidence, but you’ll also start collecting testimonials and success stories, which will help you attract paying clients in the future. The more you practice, the more natural and effective you’ll become as a coach.
3. Define Your Ideal Clients (Because You Can’t Serve Everyone)
Let’s get real: If you try to coach everyone, you’ll struggle to attract anyone. You need to define exactly who you want to help.
For example, saying, “I coach people on confidence” is too vague. But saying, “I help shy professionals become confident public speakers” is specific and powerful.
How to Define Your Ideal Client
Ask yourself:
- What kind of people do I love helping?
- What specific struggles do they face?
- What transformation do I want to provide?
Once you define your ideal client, everything—from your messaging to your marketing—becomes easier.
4. Create Your Coaching Framework (Don’t Wing It!)
Many new coaches make the mistake of offering sessions without a structure. Clients want a process, not just random advice.
Simple 5-Step Coaching Process Framework:
Having a structure makes you look more professional, even if you’re just starting out.
1. Discovery Call – A Free Session to Assess Fit and Goals
When I first started coaching, I quickly realized that not every client is the right fit—and that’s okay. That’s why I always recommend starting with a free discovery call. This is a no-pressure conversation where you and your potential client can get to know each other. I use this time to ask questions about their goals, struggles, and expectations while also sharing my coaching style. It’s important that both sides feel comfortable before committing. If I sense that I’m not the best person to help them, I’ll be honest and even recommend another coach who might be a better fit.
2. Goal-Setting – Defining What Success Looks Like
One of the first things I do when working with a new client is to help them define what success looks like. Without clear goals, it’s easy to feel lost and unmotivated. I encourage my clients to be specific about what they want to achieve—whether it’s building a business, improving productivity, or gaining confidence. I’ve found that when people have a clear vision, they are much more likely to stay committed. I also help them refine their goals using the SMART method (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) to make them more concrete and actionable.
3. Action Plan – Developing a Step-by-Step Strategy
Once the goals are clear, it’s time to create a plan. I always tell my clients that a dream without a plan is just a wish. I work with them to break their big goals into smaller, manageable steps so they don’t feel overwhelmed. Some people prefer a detailed structure, while others need more flexibility—I adapt my approach based on what works best for them. I also help them set realistic deadlines and encourage them to take small, consistent actions rather than waiting for the perfect moment. I know from personal experience that progress happens when we focus on taking one step at a time.
4. Progress Check-Ins – Regular Coaching Calls to Adjust the Plan
Coaching isn’t just about setting goals and walking away. I stay involved by scheduling regular check-ins—weekly, biweekly, or monthly—to help my clients stay accountable. In these sessions, we celebrate wins, troubleshoot obstacles, and adjust the plan if needed. I remind my clients that setbacks are normal and don’t mean failure. Instead, they’re opportunities to learn and grow. I’ve seen firsthand how a simple mindset shift can completely change someone’s progress. That’s why I always make sure to provide encouragement and motivation during these check-ins.
5. Final Review – Wrapping Up and Providing Long-Term Strategies
When it’s time to wrap up a coaching journey, I don’t just say goodbye—I make sure my clients feel confident moving forward. I reflect with them on how far they’ve come, celebrate their achievements, and provide them with long-term strategies. I want them to continue growing, even after our sessions end. That’s why I often give them resources, exercises, or journaling prompts they can use on their own. Some clients also choose to book occasional follow-up sessions, and I love seeing their continued progress. Coaching isn’t just about short-term wins—it’s about lasting transformation.
5. Establish Your Online Presence (Your Digital Reputation Matters)
Your online presence is your credibility. Even if you’re a total beginner, a well-branded website and social media presence can position you as an expert.
Essential Online Platforms:
Start with just one platform and grow from there. You don’t need to be everywhere—just where your ideal clients hang out.
1. Website – A Simple Site with Your Story, Services, and Testimonials
Your website should serve as a hub for potential clients to learn about your offerings and get in touch with you.
- Your Story: Include a section that highlights your background, expertise, and the personal journey that led you to coaching. Sharing your story helps build trust and relatability.
- Tip: Make sure your “About” page is authentic and emotionally engaging to resonate with your ideal clients.
- Services: Clearly outline the coaching services you offer with details such as the benefits, pricing, and what clients can expect from working with you. Include a call to action (CTA) on each service page so visitors know how to get started.
- Tip: Break down your offerings into different packages (e.g., 1:1 coaching, group coaching, and workshops).
- Testimonials: Add a dedicated page or section showcasing testimonials from your clients. Social proof is a powerful tool for building credibility and trust.
- Tip: If possible, use video testimonials as they are more personal and relatable than text alone.
- Blog: Regularly post valuable content related to coaching to improve SEO and provide ongoing value to your audience.
- Tip: Optimize each blog post for search engines by using relevant keywords and internal/external links.
2. Instagram/LinkedIn/Facebook – Share Valuable Content to Build Authority
Each social media platform offers unique ways to build your brand and connect with your audience.
- Instagram:
- Share bite-sized content like coaching tips, inspirational quotes, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and client success stories.
- Use Instagram Stories for quick, interactive content like polls, Q&A, and announcements about upcoming workshops or webinars.
- Reels and IGTV can be used to show short coaching sessions, tips, or even mini-trainings.
- Hashtags: Use targeted hashtags to increase your discoverability, and engage with followers by responding to comments and direct messages.
- LinkedIn:
- Focus on professional content that resonates with decision-makers and professionals. Share articles, case studies, and insights that showcase your expertise.
- Join LinkedIn groups related to coaching or your niche, and actively participate by offering advice or answering questions.
- Share thought leadership content like articles, long-form posts, or thought-provoking questions to encourage engagement.
- Facebook:
- Create a Facebook Business Page for your coaching services where you can engage with potential clients.
- Join Facebook groups related to coaching, personal development, or entrepreneurship, and offer value by providing free tips and answering questions.
- Use Facebook Live to host mini-webinars or Q&A sessions with your audience.
3. YouTube or Podcast (Optional) – A Great Way to Showcase Your Coaching Style
Using YouTube or a podcast allows you to connect with your audience on a deeper level and showcase your coaching style.
- YouTube:
- Create long-form content where you can dive deep into coaching topics, answer common questions, or share case studies and success stories.
- Use call-to-action (CTA) prompts in your videos, such as inviting viewers to join your mailing list or sign up for a free consultation.
- YouTube Shorts are a great way to share quick tips, behind-the-scenes, or motivational messages in a 60-second format.
- SEO: Optimize your video titles, descriptions, and tags with relevant keywords to increase your chances of ranking on YouTube.
- Podcast:
- Share interviews with clients, other experts in your industry, or discuss common challenges your target audience faces.
- Offer coaching tips and strategies in a more conversational format to engage listeners.
- Grow your community by encouraging listeners to join a private group (e.g., Facebook group) where they can connect with you and others in your niche.
- Podcast Promotion: Share snippets of your episodes on social media to create excitement and direct traffic to your podcast.
Additional Tips:
- Brand Consistency: Ensure that your website and social media profiles have consistent branding, including the same logo, colors, and messaging.
- Email Marketing: Consider collecting emails through your website and social media to keep potential clients informed about new content, special offers, and coaching programs.
- Content Calendar: Develop a content calendar to plan and schedule your posts, ensuring that you maintain consistency across platforms and provide valuable content to your audience.
6. Offer Free or Low-Cost Sessions to Gain Testimonials
Since you don’t have experience yet, the best way to build credibility is by offering free or low-cost coaching sessions in exchange for testimonials.
Where to Find First Coaching Clients with No Experience:
- Post in Facebook or LinkedIn groups.
- Ask friends and family for referrals.
- Offer a free mini-session on Instagram.
- Join networking events or online forums.
The goal isn’t just to get experience—it’s to collect amazing testimonials that build trust with future clients.
7. Set Your Pricing (Charge What You’re Worth, Not What You Fear)
A lot of new coaches undercharge because they feel inexperienced. But if you’re providing value, you deserve to be paid.
Pricing Strategy:
- Start with free sessions to gain experience.
- Offer a beta program at a discounted rate.
- Increase prices as you gain testimonials and results.
Instead of charging per session, consider packages:
- Starter Package: 4 sessions for $200
- Premium Package: 8 sessions + extra support for $500
- VIP Package: Full 1:1 coaching for $1,000+
The more value you provide, the higher you can charge.
8. Market Yourself (Because Clients Won’t Just Appear)
You can be the best coach in the world, but if no one knows you exist, you won’t make money.
Marketing Strategies for Beginners:
Marketing isn’t about selling—it’s about building relationships and providing value. Here are some strategies:
1. Post Valuable Content on Social Media
Consistently share high-quality content that educates, inspires, and engages your target audience. Use platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook to build authority.
- Share client success stories (with permission) to build credibility.
- Post quick tips and insights related to your coaching niche.
- Use video content for more engagement—live Q&As, reels, and short-form videos work well.
- Leverage hashtags to reach more people organically.
- Engage with your audience by replying to comments and DMs.
2. Run Free Workshops or Webinars
Hosting free workshops is an excellent way to showcase your expertise and attract potential clients.
- Choose a hot topic that your audience struggles with.
- Provide actionable takeaways so attendees feel they got value.
- Offer a special discount or bonus for your paid coaching program at the end.
- Collect emails and follow up with additional resources or a discovery call offer.
3. Ask Happy Clients for Referrals
Satisfied clients can be your best promoters. Encourage them to refer friends or colleagues who might benefit from your coaching.
- Create a referral program where clients get discounts or bonuses for successful referrals.
- Ask for testimonials and showcase them on your website and social media.
- Provide personalized referral messages they can easily send to friends.
4. Be a Guest on Podcasts or Blogs
Getting featured on other platforms helps you reach new audiences and build credibility.
- Find podcasts in your niche and pitch yourself as a guest with a unique angle.
- Write guest blog posts for industry websites with backlinks to your website.
- Offer valuable insights rather than direct promotions—people will naturally want to learn more about you.
- Use the exposure to grow your email list by offering a freebie to podcast listeners or blog readers.
9. Overcome Imposter Syndrome (Because You’re Good Enough!)
At some point, you’ll think, Who am I to be a coach? That’s normal. Before they start a coaching business with no experience, every coach has doubted themselves at some point. You might feel like you need more experience, more certifications, or more success before you can guide others. But the truth is, coaching isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about helping people find their own. The best coaches aren’t those who claim to be perfect; they’re the ones who listen, support, and genuinely care about their clients’ growth.
The secret? Focus on helping, not proving yourself. Coaching isn’t about showing off expertise; it’s about making a difference. If you can help one person get results, you’re already a coach. Your clients don’t need a guru—they need someone who understands their struggles and can guide them forward. Keep learning, keep improving, and don’t let fear stop you. The only way to gain confidence is to start.
Conclusion: You Don’t Need Experience—You Need Action
Starting a coaching business with no experience is completely possible. You don’t need a degree, years of training, or tons of certifications.
You just need:
- A clear niche
- A structured coaching process
- An online presence
- Testimonials
- The confidence to start
Every great coach started as a beginner. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t? They take action. They started a coaching business with no experience.
So, are you ready to start your coaching journey? The first step is yours to take. 🚀
For more similar blog post, check out:
- How to start a dropshipping business
- How to Drive Traffic to Your Blog Using Pinterest
- Free Resources For Online Entrepreneurs (This is our most read article).
