Marketing Tactics the Top 1% of Online Coaches Are Currently Using to Scale

As an online coach, you know that the coaching industry is more competitive than ever. While many coaches are still leaning on outdated social media posts and email newsletters, the top 1% are out here playing chess while everyone else is playing checkers. If you’re serious about scaling your coaching business, it’s time to start thinking outside the box. Today, we’re talking about innovative marketing tactics the most successful coaches are using right now to grow their business—beyond the typical social media strategies.

1. Chatbots: Automated DMs That Close Deals While You Sleep

Imagine waking up to new clients already booked on your calendar—all thanks to a chatbot. Tools like ManyChat or ChatFuel allow you to automate direct messages (DMs) on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. These bots can guide potential clients through a sales funnel, from answering FAQs to booking discovery calls or even closing sales.

Not only do chatbots free up your time, but they also help you connect with more people in a personalized way. You can tailor the conversation flow to fit your brand, making it feel like a natural extension of your coaching style.

2. Faux Webinars: Evergreen Product Demos and Multi-Day Challenges

Webinars have long been a go-to for selling high-ticket coaching programs, but the top 1% are stepping it up with "faux" webinars. Instead of live events, these are pre-recorded, evergreen webinars designed to walk potential clients through your program, product, or service anytime they choose.

The same goes for multi-day challenges, which you can pre-record and release as part of an automated marketing funnel. Faux webinars and evergreen video series keep working for you around the clock, providing valuable content while pushing potential clients toward making a buying decision.

3. Free Trials: Let Clients Test Drive Your Coaching

The top coaches are confident enough in their services to offer free trials. Whether it’s a one-week access to your membership program or a limited-time spot in your group coaching session, free trials remove the barrier to entry for potential clients.

People are more likely to invest in your services after they've experienced the value you deliver. You can even use free trials to upsell clients into long-term commitments once they’ve seen the transformation you can help them achieve.

4. Private Podcasts: Exclusive Content That Speaks to Your VIPs

Public podcasts are great, but the top 1% of coaches are using private podcasts to scale. These exclusive, invite-only audio series can be part of a VIP coaching package, a bonus for your high-ticket clients, or even a lead magnet to warm up potential clients.

Private podcasts create a sense of exclusivity and give your audience the inside scoop on your expertise. You can share insights, success stories, and strategies that aren’t available to the public, adding more value to your offers.

5. Sales Carts and Checkout Software: Automate the Upsell with Ease

One thing top coaches know is that the real money is made at checkout. Tools like Voma, SamCart, and ThriveCart allow you to create custom sales carts where you can add order bumps, upsells, and downsells seamlessly.

An order bump might be a workbook to complement your coaching program, while an upsell could be an upgrade to one-on-one coaching. These software platforms make it easy to increase your average order value without adding extra work to your plate. And trust me, once you start automating upsells, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

6. Snail Mail: Yes, It’s Making a Comeback

You heard that right. Snail mail isn’t dead—it’s having a glow-up. The top 1% of online coaches are using traditional mail to stand out in an increasingly digital world. Sending a handwritten note, a physical welcome kit, or even a marketing postcard can make a huge impact on your client experience.

Mailers are especially effective for referrals and client retention. Imagine sending your top clients a thank-you card with a referral code or inviting them to leave a review via a beautifully designed postcard. Not only does it make you more memorable, but it also strengthens your relationships with your clients.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been struggling to scale your online coaching business, these innovative marketing tactics might be just what you need to break through. By automating processes, adding exclusive touches, and leveraging tools that go beyond the basics, you’ll position yourself ahead of the pack. Remember, the goal isn’t just to get more clients—it’s to create a streamlined, scalable business that allows you to grow without burning out.

So, which one of these tactics are you ready to try next?

Pro Tip: Start small. Pick one of these strategies and master it before adding another to your marketing mix. Scaling is a marathon, not a sprint!