{Live Coaching Episode} How To Get Your First 10 Clients
If you’re a coach struggling to fill your client roster, this episode is for you. Today I’m diving into a powerful strategy that can transform your business—especially if you have a corporate background. I’ll be coaching Mel, a talented executive coach, and sharing actionable steps to help her (and you!) attract dream clients, build a sustainable business, and make a massive impact.
Let’s get into it.
Meet Mel: From Corporate America to Coaching
Mel’s story is one many of us can relate to. After 25 years in corporate America, she made the leap into coaching, focusing on helping executives and leaders who feel stuck or imbalanced. But like so many coaches, she’s hit a roadblock: filling her client roster.
Here’s the thing—Mel has a huge advantage. Her corporate experience isn’t just a background; it’s a goldmine of opportunity. And that’s where we started our conversation.
Why Corporate Coaching is a Game-Changer
If you have a corporate background like Mel, corporate coaching is a natural fit. Companies are investing in coaching now more than ever because it directly impacts key metrics like employee retention, engagement, and satisfaction.
For Mel, this means:
- Leveraging her expertise: She already speaks the language of executives and understands their pain points.
- Creating massive impact: Coaching in a corporate setting allows her to help not just one person, but entire teams and organizations.
- Scaling her business: Corporate contracts often mean higher-ticket, long-term engagements.
But how do you get started? Let’s break it down.
Actionable Steps to Get Your First 10 Clients
Here’s the exact strategy I walked Mel through:
- Create a Dream Client List
Start by identifying 10-20 companies or organizations you’d love to work with. Think about where your skills and experience align with their needs.
- Develop a Pitch Strategy
Craft a clear, compelling pitch that highlights the value you bring. Focus on measurable outcomes—like improved leadership, team cohesion, or employee satisfaction.
- Start with Warm Outreach
Reach out to your existing network first. Former colleagues, LinkedIn connections, or even friends who work in corporate settings can be your gateway in.
- Expand to Cold Outreach
Once you’ve warmed up your outreach muscles, start reaching out to decision-makers at your dream companies. Keep it concise, value-driven, and focused on how you can solve their problems.
The Power of LinkedIn and Networking
If you’re targeting corporate clients, you have to be where they are—and that’s LinkedIn. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Optimize your profile: Make it clear you’re a coach who specializes in corporate leadership and development.
- Engage consistently: Share valuable content, comment on posts, and join relevant groups.
- Network strategically: Attend virtual or in-person networking events where corporate leaders gather.
And don’t forget—networking isn’t just about finding clients. It’s also about staying connected and energized, especially when you’re running a solo business.
Addressing Loneliness as a Solo Business Owner
Let’s be real: building a coaching business can be lonely. That’s why I encouraged Mel to find an accountability partner—someone she can check in with regularly to share wins, challenges, and ideas.
Having a support system isn’t just nice; it’s necessary. It keeps you motivated, focused, and reminded of why you started this journey in the first place.
The Small Bite Offer: Your Secret Weapon
One of the most effective ways to build trust with corporate clients (or any clients!) is through a small bite offer. This is a low-cost, high-value package that gives potential clients a taste of your coaching magic.
For Mel, this could look like:
- A 60-minute leadership audit for a corporate team.
- A workshop on improving team communication.
- A mini-coaching session for an executive.
The goal? Deliver so much value that they’re eager to invest in your higher-ticket offers.
Your Next Steps
If you’re a coach with a corporate background (or even if you’re not!), corporate coaching is a massive opportunity. Start by creating your dream client list, crafting your pitch, and getting out there. And don’t forget to lean into LinkedIn and networking—it’s where your ideal clients are waiting.
Mel left our session energized and ready to take action. And I know you can too.
