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First of all—congrats. Landing your first 10 coaching clients is a big deal. It means people trust you, believe in your expertise, and are willing to invest in what you offer. That’s no small thing.
But let’s be real: coaching your first few clients is exciting and overwhelming. You’re not just leading sessions, you’re building relationships, prepping materials, managing your time, and trying to keep everything running smoothly. It can feel like a lot.
This guide is here to help. We’ll walk through what to focus on, how to stay organized, and how to build real momentum without burning out. Let’s get into it.
Get clear on goals and expectations
Before that first session even starts, try to understand exactly what your client is hoping for. Use your Booking Page to collect information up front. Things like:
“What would make this session a success for you?”
“Is there something specific you want help with?”
“How would you describe your biggest challenge right now?”
The clearer you are on what matters to them, the easier it is to deliver value and avoid misunderstandings down the line.
Do your research
Take five minutes before each session to look your client up. LinkedIn, a website, even a quick re-read of their booking form. These little details help you connect faster and ask smarter questions.
When someone feels seen and understood early on, they’re more likely to trust you, and more likely to come back.
Make a great first impression
It’s not about perfection. But a little polish goes a long way.
Test your internet, mic, and camera before the call
Use a clean, quiet space with a professional background
Dress in a way that matches your brand or audience
Start the call by explaining what you’ll cover and how it will flow
Leave time for them to ask questions
The first session sets the tone. If it feels focused and personal, it builds confidence in you and your process.
Personalize your sessions
Even with 10 clients, no two should feel like a copy-paste. Use what they’ve told you to tailor your questions and feedback. Be present. Listen. Take notes.
You’re not just here to teach, you’re also here to listen, guide, and adapt. That’s what turns a one-time session into a long-term coaching relationship.
Use a professional booking setup
Don’t rely on email threads or calendar juggling. A dedicated Booking Page gives clients a smooth experience from the start.
With Doodle, you can:
Share one link to book available time
Add custom questions to gather info in advance
Collect payments automatically with Stripe
Set buffer time between sessions so you’re never rushed
It’s one simple system, for you and your clients.
Don’t rush your calendar
Trying to fit all 10 clients into one day? Probably not a great idea. At this stage, you’re still figuring things out: your prep time, your energy levels, and how long it really takes to deliver a great experience.
Start with fewer sessions per day, with built-in breathing room.
Sample weekly plan for managing your first 10 coaching clients
Day | Time | Task |
Monday | 08:30–09:00 | Research + prep for Client 1 |
09:00–09:45 | Client 1 | |
09:45–10:00 | Notes + follow-up email | |
13:00–13:30 | Prep for Client 2 | |
13:30–14:15 | Client 2 | |
14:15–14:45 | Light break or short walk | |
15:30–16:00 | Prep for Client 3 | |
16:00–16:45 | Client 3 | |
Evening | Off-duty / personal time | |
Tuesday | 09:00–09:30 | Prep + research for Client 4 |
09:30–10:15 | Client 4 | |
10:15–10:45 | Notes + light admin | |
12:00–12:30 | Prep for Client 5 | |
12:30–13:15 | Client 5 | |
13:15–14:00 | Follow-up + inbox | |
Afternoon | Free / personal time | |
Wednesday | Morning | Weekly reflection + planning |
11:00–11:30 | Prep for Client 6 | |
11:30–12:15 | Client 6 | |
13:00–13:30 | Catch-up admin | |
Afternoon | Creative work / self-learning | |
Thursday | 08:30–09:00 | Research + prep for Client 7 |
09:00–09:45 | Client 7 | |
10:00–10:30 | Break + review | |
11:00–11:30 | Prep for Client 8 | |
11:30–12:15 | Client 8 | |
13:00–13:30 | Prep for Client 9 | |
13:30–14:15 | Client 9 | |
14:15–15:00 | Walk or screen break | |
Friday | 09:00–09:30 | Prep for Client 10 |
09:30–10:15 | Client 10 | |
10:15–11:00 | Final notes + end-of-week reflection | |
14:00–15:00 | Booking Page check + next week planning | |
Late afternoon | Off-duty |
Track happiness and repeat rate
After every session, take a minute to reflect:
Did the client seem satisfied?
Did they book a follow-up?
Was there positive feedback or signs of progress?
Over time, these notes will show you what’s working, who’s sticking around, and where you can improve. You don’t need a fancy system, just consistency.
Know and show your unique value
As your calendar fills, your why you becomes even more important. What sets you apart?
Your background?
Your coaching style?
The questions you ask?
The way you explain things?
Whatever it is—lean into it. Help your clients understand not just what you do, but how and why it’s different from anyone else.
Let Doodle help you stay on top of it
Your first 10 clients are more than just appointments, they’re the start of something bigger. And you don’t need to run the show on sticky notes and mental reminders.
Doodle gives you everything you need to stay professional and in control:
Booking Pages that simplify scheduling
Stripe integration to handle payments
Built-in buffers and prep time
Smart reminders to stay on track
That way, you can focus on what really matters—being the coach your clients keep coming back to.
