Should you offer 1:1 coaching or group coaching?

Choosing between 1:1 coaching and group coaching is a big decision as a coach. On the CoCoach platform, you can offer a variety of coaching services, including:

✅ 1:1 coaching
✅ Group coaching
✅ Online courses

But which option is the right one for you right now? Let’s break it down. 🤝

A lesson from Tesla

When Tesla introduced their first car to the market, they started with the Roadster before launching more affordable models like the Model S. Tesla understood that selling a few high-end cars (the Roadster) was easier than selling a large number of cheaper cars. High-end cars are often handcrafted with more attention to detail, while budget-friendly models require mass production to remain cost-effective. This approach gave Tesla valuable hands-on experience before scaling up to a fully automated production line.

Why does this matter for coaches?

Just like Tesla, it often makes sense for a coach to start with a high-touch, exclusive service before scaling.

Why?

✅ Less pressure on sales – It’s easier to secure a few high-ticket clients than a large number of lower-paying ones.
✅ Maximum hands-on experience – Working closely with clients allows you to refine your coaching methods before expanding.

The growth path

➡️ The more you improve your skills as a 1:1 coach, the better you’ll be at coaching groups.
➡️ The better you get at group coaching, the easier it will be to create a structured curriculum for an online course.
➡️ Using group coaching software can help streamline your transition and ensure a smooth experience for both you and your clients.

The game plan

Step 1: Start with 1:1 coaching and get fully booked

(Typically, this means working with 30-80 clients, depending on your coaching style.)

Step 2: Build a waiting list for your group coaching program

(On average, 1 in 6 people on your list will convert into paying clients—so grow your list before launching!)

Step 3: Scale your group coaching program for at least six months before creating a waiting list for your first online course.

A hand-drawn diagram illustrating the progression from 1:1 coaching to group coaching and then to an online course. The diagram is structured like a staircase, with 1:1 coaching at the top, followed by group coaching in the middle, and online courses at the bottom. Dollar signs next to each step indicate decreasing individual price points as the coaching model scales. Green arrows guide the viewer through the natural progression of coaching services. The words "Start here" in green highlight 1:1 coaching as the recommended starting point.

By following this strategy, you’ll build expertise, increase demand, and scale efficiently without overwhelming yourself. A platform for coaches like CoCoach can help streamline the process, providing tools for managing group coaching software, client onboarding, and course development.

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