Once you’ve established your coaching practice, made a mark in your niche, and defined your unique intellectual property, it’s time to consider what’s next. In a previous ICF Coaching World article, I described ways to grow your business. We explored four approaches — these are used as the foundational model for the work done in the ICF Business Development Series (BDS) 2024 Advanced program:
- Grow your market share.
- Create new offerings for your existing audience.
- Sell your coaching services to a new audience.
- Pivot or significantly evolve your practice.
In this article, I’ll provide examples of strategies that can help you grow your practice, success, and the joy you derive from your work! As an established coach, explore these 12 activities to stay relevant, expand your impact, and continue to meet the changing needs of clients and the marketplace:
Incorporate Technology
Embrace new technologies to enhance the coaching experience. This could include using AI-driven analytics to track client progress, employing virtual reality for immersive role-playing scenarios, or utilizing apps for regular communication and support. Technology can also streamline your business operations, freeing more time for coaching.
Develop Group Coaching Programs
Expand from one-on-one sessions to group coaching. This strategy can scale your practice, foster a community among clients, and facilitate peer learning.
Expand Your Suite of Offerings
Introduce additional services that complement coaching, such as retreats, workshops, or online courses. Expanding your offerings diversifies your client experience and may attract new clients.
Create a Certification Program
If you’ve developed a unique coaching methodology, consider training other coaches and offering certification in your approach. This extends your influence and creates a new revenue stream.
Write a Book
Author a book detailing your coaching philosophy or methodology. This strategy enhances your credibility, widens your audience, and reinforces your brand. The process of writing a book enables you to get clear on your intellectual property.
Adopt a Holistic Approach
Integrate wellness, mindfulness, or holistic health techniques into your practice. Addressing the mental and physical well-being of clients can differentiate your services. The bonus, according to Jordan Friedman aka The Stress Coach, is that “Helping your clients with mindfulness and stress reduction will make the coaching you deliver more impactful.”
Engage in Continuous Learning
Become a lifelong learner and stay informed of new developments in psychology, business, technology, and coaching. Staying current ensures you offer the most innovative solutions.
Leverage Social Proof
Use testimonials, case studies, and client success stories in your marketing. Demonstrating the transformational impact of your coaching attracts potential clients. And as a bonus, when clients provide a testimonial, they become more connected to your business.
Form Strategic Alliances
Collaborate with other coaches or professionals to offer comprehensive services. Partnering with a financial advisor, for example, can provide a holistic package for executive clients.
Host a Podcast or Web Series
Launch a podcast or web series to discuss challenges, solutions, industry leader interviews, and coaching insights. This boosts visibility and establishes your thought leadership. It also expands your network.
Implement Feedback Systems
Establish robust feedback systems to collect client insights. Use this information for data-driven enhancements to your practice and to reconnect with former clients.
Community Engagement
Build a community around your brand where clients can interact, share experiences, and support one another through online forums, social media groups, or networking events.
For more ideas on how to expand your coaching business, don’t miss the ICF BDS 24 Advanced On-Demand program.
