From Networking to Digital: 9 Places to Get Coaching Leads
Getting more coaching leads can be a real puzzle. You try different things, but sometimes it feels like nothing sticks. Maybe you’ve posted online, sent emails or even gone to networking events, but the results are hit or miss. You want your calendar full, not just with anyone, but with people who are a great fit for what you do.
It’s normal to feel frustrated when your efforts don’t pay off right away. Chasing every new marketing tip can leave you feeling overwhelmed. The truth is, you don’t need a complicated system to get more coaching leads. You just need the right steps, done in a way that feels natural and doable.
Simple, steady actions are what really make a difference. When you focus on building trust and showing up where your ideal clients spend time, you’ll start to see better results—without having to guess what works.
In this guide, you’ll find out:
- The overlooked networking move that helps you get remembered
- One easy online habit that puts you in front of the right people
- The partnership tip that brings new opportunities to your inbox
- How a simple live session can turn curiosity into real conversations
- The subtle profile update that helps people find you when they’re ready to hire
Let’s make getting coaching leads feel simple and achievable, one step at a time...
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Proven Way #1: Go to Local Events for Coaches
Go to local events to meet potential clients in person. Face-to-face meetings build stronger trust than online messages. Most coaches try to find clients online, but meeting people in your area works better for gaining trust.
At these events, you can learn what your local market needs, see what other coaches aren't offering, and understand what problems people face. This helps you improve how you talk about your services.
A report from University of Michigan shows that face-to-face meetings have a 40% conversion rate for turning prospects into customers. That means every handshake is a chance to stand out and get remembered.
Industry Expert Perspective
"I've found that local networking events are where I make my most valuable connections. People remember a good conversation and a follow-up coffee much more than an email pitch." — Sarah Lee, Business Coach
Quick Implementation Guide: Local Networking for Coaches
- Find relevant events using platforms like Meetup and Eventbrite.
- Prepare a short, value-focused introduction about what you do and who you help.
- Focus on listening first, then share your expertise when it’s helpful.
- Collect contact info and follow up within 48 hours with a friendly, non-salesy message.
Common Mistake to Avoid
- Talking too much about yourself instead of asking good questions and listening. People remember how you made them feel, not just what you said.
Measurement Tip
- Track how many meaningful new contacts you make at each event and how many follow-up conversations lead to a discovery call or referral.
KEY INSIGHTS
- Local events are a proven way to build trust and get remembered by potential coaching clients.
- Success comes from listening first, then sharing your expertise.
- Follow-up is where many coaches drop the ball, so make it a priority after every event.
What kind of local event would help you meet your next client? Share your ideas or experiences below.
Proven Way #2: Join Online Groups Where Your Clients Hang Out
Join online groups where your ideal clients spend time. Places like Facebook Groups and Reddit are full of people discussing their problems and goals.
Be helpful by answering questions and sharing useful tips instead of just promoting yourself. When you consistently help others, group members will see you as an expert and start reaching out for your coaching services.
TINT's survey shows that 76% consider online communities influential in product recommendations. Meaning, every answer or resource you share can turn into a potential lead.
Case Example
A career coach joined a mid-sized LinkedIn group for professionals in transition. By answering questions weekly and sharing a free resume checklist, she booked 8 discovery calls in her first month—without ever pitching directly.
Quick Implementation Guide: Building Authority in Online Groups
- Identify 3-5 groups where your target clients are active. Look for engagement, not just size.
- Introduce yourself with a value-focused post, not a sales pitch.
- Answer questions weekly and share one helpful resource or story per month.
- Offer to host a free Q&A or mini-class to showcase your expertise.
Common Mistake to Avoid
- Posting generic messages or links without context. Instead, tailor your advice to the group’s needs.
Measurement Tip
- Track engagement: monitor replies, direct messages, and group members who connect with you outside the platform.
KEY INSIGHTS
- Active participation builds trust and visibility in online communities.
- Focus on groups with real engagement, not just large numbers.
- Consistent, helpful contributions lead to more direct inquiries and qualified leads.
Which online group will you participate in this week to boost your visibility?
Proven Way #3: Team Up with Other Professionals
Work with other professionals to reach new clients and get warm referrals. When coaches partner with therapists, trainers, or consultants, referrals from trusted colleagues convert much better than cold leads.
These partnerships work when both people benefit and serve similar clients. Regular marketing often feels useless, but a referral from a respected peer matters. Build lasting partnerships by offering value back—share your skills or co-host events together. According to our article on lead generation for coaches, offering free—but valuable—resources to your potential clients or customers will help you generate more leads for your coaching business.
Base from a study by the American Marketing Association, leads from referrals have a 30% higher conversion rate than leads generated from other marketing channels. This means a single partnership can be more effective than months of solo outreach.
Referral Partnership Builder: Step-by-Step
- List 3-5 professionals who serve your ideal clients but aren’t direct competitors.
- Reach out with a personalized message that highlights mutual benefits.
- Suggest a simple joint offer, such as a free session for each other’s referrals.
- Track referrals and follow up to strengthen the relationship.
Common Mistake to Avoid
- Failing to clarify expectations or benefits for both sides. Always communicate openly.
Measurement Tip
- Record the number of referrals received and the conversion rate for each partnership.
KEY INSIGHTS
- Referral partnerships offer higher conversion rates and trust than solo marketing.
- Success depends on clear communication and providing value to your partners.
- Tracking your results ensures your partnerships stay productive.
Who could you partner with this month to exchange leads and grow your client base?
Proven Way #4: Host Free Online Classes or Live Demos
Host free online classes or live demos so people can see how you coach. Live sessions let you interact, answer questions, and build trust right away. This works well for coaches because people can try before they buy without any risk.
Many coaches skip this, thinking it's too hard or takes too long. But simple sessions work best—focus on one problem and keep it short. Use Zoom or Google Meet and make it practical.
Event Marketing Statistics reported that 87% of live event attendees are more likely to buy products or services after completion of the particular event. This shows that live demos are one of the most effective ways to move leads closer to a decision.
Live Demo Launchpad: Step-by-Step
- Pick a common challenge your audience faces and craft a 30-45 minute session to address it.
- Promote your event through email, social media, and your existing network.
- Engage participants by answering questions and offering live feedback.
- End with a clear call-to-action, such as booking a discovery call or downloading a resource.
Common Mistake to Avoid
- Focusing only on presentation slides and not interacting with attendees. Make it a conversation.
Measurement Tip
- Track sign-ups, attendance rate, and how many attendees take the next step after the event.
KEY INSIGHTS
- Live online events convert leads more effectively than static content.
- Simple, interactive sessions outperform long, lecture-style webinars.
- Always end with a clear next step to maximize conversions.
What topic could you teach in a live session that would attract your ideal client?
Proven Way #5: Be a Guest on Podcasts or YouTube Shows
Be a guest on podcasts or YouTube shows to reach new people and build credibility fast. These platforms let you share your story and expertise with audiences who don't know you yet. Hosts always need good guests who bring value to their listeners.
Many coaches don't try this, but a good pitch can get you great exposure. Target shows that match your coaching area, and prepare talking points about real results or unique ideas.
76% of podcast listeners say they’ve taken action after hearing a podcast advertisement, whether by visiting a website, making a purchase, or seeking more information about the advertised product or service, base from Edison Research study. This means your appearance can drive real engagement and inquiries.
Media Outreach Playbook
- Research 5-10 shows in your niche and review recent episodes to understand their style.
- Send a personalized pitch highlighting your expertise and what you can offer their audience.
- Prepare stories and actionable advice to share during your appearance.
- Give listeners a clear next step, like visiting your website or downloading a free resource.
Common Mistake to Avoid
- Not providing a way for listeners to follow up with you. Always mention a website or contact method.
Measurement Tip
- Use unique URLs or codes to track traffic and leads generated from each appearance.
KEY INSIGHTS
- Media appearances expand your reach and build credibility fast.
- Personalized pitches and actionable stories make you a sought-after guest.
- Clear calls-to-action turn listeners into leads you can nurture.
What podcast or YouTube channel would be a great fit for your expertise?
Proven Way #6: Send Helpful Email Newsletters
Send helpful email newsletters if you want to nurture leads and stay top-of-mind for when potential clients are ready to act. Email remains one of the most effective ways to build relationships over time, especially when you share stories, tips, and exclusive content that your audience can't get elsewhere.
While many coaches rely on social media, your email list is an asset you own and control. Regular newsletters let you segment your audience and personalize your messaging, which increases engagement and conversions.
DMA (Direct Marketing Association) found segmentation-driven campaigns achieve a 760% increase in revenue. This means that sending the right message to the right people pays off.
Do This / Not That
- Do This: Share client wins, actionable advice, and personal stories/Not That: Send generic updates or only promote your services
- Do This: Segment your list and personalize your emails/Not That: Send the same message to everyone
- Do This: Include a clear call-to-action in every email/Not That: Leave readers without a next step
Common Mistake to Avoid
- Neglecting to follow up with readers who engage or reply. Responding quickly builds trust and shows you care about their progress.
Measurement Tip
- Track open rates, click-throughs, and replies. Aim for at least a 20% open rate and 2% click rate as benchmarks for a healthy list.
KEY INSIGHTS
- Email is a direct, personal channel for nurturing coaching leads.
- Segmentation and personalization dramatically increase engagement and results.
- Measurement and quick follow-up set you apart from other coaches.
What story or tip could you share in your next newsletter that would help your audience take action?
Proven Way #7: Share Your Ideas on LinkedIn or Medium
Write articles on LinkedIn or Medium to reach professionals who want expert advice. Publishing on these sites makes you look like an expert and helps you find people looking for what you offer.
Unlike short posts, longer articles let you explain problems deeply, give step-by-step solutions, and share real success stories. This builds trust with readers and makes them more likely to contact you for help.
LinkedIn verified that they've seen a nearly 50 percent increase in the number of people following people who have turned on creator mode, and a nearly 30 percent increase in the engagement on content created by people with creator mode turned on. Which means every article you write as a content creator increases your visibility and potential for new business.
Quick Implementation Guide: Publishing for Authority
- Choose topics that address common client challenges or industry trends.
- Write in a clear, actionable style—use bullet points and examples.
- End each article with a call-to-action, such as a free worksheet or a link to book a call.
Common Mistake to Avoid
- Posting infrequently or without a clear message. Consistency and clarity are key to building an audience.
Measurement Tip
- Monitor profile views, inbound messages, and downloads of your resources. Look for steady month-over-month growth.
KEY INSIGHTS
- Publishing on LinkedIn or Medium increases your authority and reach.
- Actionable, consistent content attracts more engaged coaching leads.
- Calls-to-action at the end of each post drive measurable results.
What question could you answer in your next article to help your audience solve a real problem?
Proven Way #8: Add Your Name to Coach Directories
List yourself in coach directories so people looking for coaches can find you. Sites like Noomii and Coach.me bring you people who are ready to hire, giving you good leads.
Most coaches don't make their profiles good enough. Profiles with professional photos, detailed descriptions, and client reviews get way more contacts. Adding a short video about yourself can help even more.
Quick Implementation Guide: Directory Profile Optimization
- Sign up for 2-3 reputable directories relevant to your coaching specialty.
- Fill out every section, including a professional photo, detailed bio, and at least two testimonials.
- Record a short video introduction to build trust with prospects.
Common Mistake to Avoid
- Leaving your profile incomplete or failing to update it regularly. Outdated information can turn away serious leads.
Measurement Tip
- Track the number of inquiries and conversion rates from each directory. Adjust your profile based on which details attract the most responses.
KEY INSIGHTS
- Optimized directory listings attract ready-to-buy coaching clients.
- Complete profiles with testimonials and video stand out from the competition.
- Tracking inquiries helps you refine your approach for even better results.
What detail could you add to your directory profile this week to boost your response rate?
Proven Way #9: Run a Short Challenge or Bootcamp
Run a short challenge or bootcamp to create urgency and get prospects to take action. Challenges let potential clients try your coaching style and get a quick win, which builds trust and gets them excited about working with you longer.
Many coaches don't do this, but interactive events can boost conversions. People get real results and see your value for themselves, making them more likely to buy.
Keep challenges focused on one clear goal that people can actually reach. Give daily tips or feedback and celebrate when people succeed. At the end, invite your most active participants to keep working with you.
Quick Implementation Guide: Launching Your First Challenge
- Pick a clear, bite-sized goal your audience wants to achieve in 5-7 days.
- Promote the challenge via your email list, groups, or social media.
- Share daily guidance, feedback, and encouragement in a dedicated group or chat.
- Offer a bonus session or special prize to the most active participant.
- Invite all participants to book a discovery call or join your coaching program at the end.
Common Mistake to Avoid
- Making the challenge too broad or difficult. Focus on one problem and help participants get a quick win.
Measurement Tip
- Track sign-ups, completion rates, and how many participants become paying clients.
KEY INSIGHTS
- Short, focused challenges convert leads by providing real value and quick wins.
- Simplicity, engagement, and clear next steps drive the best results.
- Tracking conversions helps you improve each challenge for higher impact.
What challenge could you run this month to help your leads take action and become clients?
If you want to get your marketing work done for your business (or for your clients’), then you HAVE to learn more how you can delegate unlimited marketing projects & tasks without the headaches of hiring. Download this free guide: 33 Examples of Marketing Projects You Can Delegate to Growbo
Conclusion
Growing your coaching business comes down to simple, steady steps. When you show up—at events, in online groups, or in someone’s inbox—you make it easier for clients to trust and remember you.
Every small action adds up. Sharing advice, teaming up with other pros, or just following up with a friendly email can make all the difference. These are the moments that help you stand out.
Keep your profiles and emails fresh. That way, when someone is ready for help, you’re the first person they think of.
KEY INSIGHTS
- Be present and helpful where your clients spend time—both in-person and online.
- Offer free value and build real partnerships to give people a taste of your coaching.
- Stay connected and keep your information up to date so leads can reach out when they’re ready.
If you want to make things easier, Growbo’s team can do it all for you. For just $7, you can see what it’s like to have a marketing team ready to help, without the hassle. Try Growbo now and see how simple growing your business can be.
Want to talk through your marketing goals and see how Growbo can help? Schedule a call with us here and let’s chat about making your next big step even easier.
Got a tip to share or a question? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you!
Keep Growin', Stay Focused,
Image Credits:
1. https://www.tonyrobbins.com/events/date-with-destiny
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4. https://www.facebook.com/wecommune/videos/2166433993616510/
5. https://coachingforleaders.com/podcast/be-more-self-aware-tasha-eurich/
6. https://www.faithhillcoaching.com/newsletter
7. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shettyjay/recent-activity/all/
8. https://coach.me/coaches/pro/Life
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