The Five Best Platforms to Use to Sell Your Coaching Service
Introduction to Online Coaching and the Power of Platforms
The coaching industry has exploded in recent years. From life coaches and business mentors to fitness gurus and wellness advisors, more and more professionals are stepping into the digital coaching space. Why? Because the demand for personal transformation is at an all-time high—and people are willing to pay for it.
But here's the thing: being a great coach isn't enough. You need visibility, tools, and automation to truly thrive in the online world. That’s where digital platforms come into play. These platforms are not just tools—they’re your business partners. They handle your payments, schedule your sessions, organize your content, and sometimes even help market your services.
Whether you're new to coaching or already running a growing practice, the platform you choose can either make your life easier or be the thing that holds you back. So, how do you choose? That’s exactly what we’ll break down in this guide.
In the next sections, we’ll look at why the right platform matters, what features to look for, and finally, the top 5 best coaching platforms you can use to start, grow, or scale your service-based business online.
Why Choosing the Right Platform is Crucial for Coaches
If you've been coaching for a while, you've probably felt the overwhelm: juggling multiple tools, dealing with flaky scheduling apps, or worse—missing out on clients because your system was too clunky. That’s why choosing the right platform isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s absolutely essential.
Reach and Exposure
One major advantage of using a good platform is visibility. Some platforms come with built-in audiences or SEO tools that help you get discovered faster. This means less time begging people to check out your services and more time doing what you love—coaching!
Also, many platforms make it easier to run webinars, live classes, or create lead magnets that attract new clients. Your platform should work as a magnet, not just a storage unit for your files.
Automation and Scalability
Imagine never having to send another reminder email or manually issue invoices. A solid coaching platform automates those time-sucking tasks. From setting up email sequences to collecting payments, automation helps you grow without burning out.
This is especially crucial if you're trying to scale your business. You can't grow if you're stuck doing everything manually. The right platform will automate your marketing, session booking, and client onboarding in a seamless, professional way.
Branding and Trust
First impressions matter—a lot. Your coaching platform is often the first interaction someone has with your brand. A clunky, outdated interface can kill credibility fast. On the flip side, a sleek, intuitive platform builds trust instantly.
Clients want to know they’re dealing with a professional. A well-branded coaching platform can give you that edge. From custom domains to beautiful landing pages, your platform should reflect your unique voice and offer a smooth user experience.
Key Features to Look for in a Coaching Platform
Before we jump into our list of the best platforms, let’s talk about what makes a platform actually good for coaches. Because not all platforms are created equal. Some are designed for online courses, others for appointments, and a few are built specifically for coaching businesses.
Here are the key features every serious coach should look for:
Scheduling and Calendar Integration
You need a platform that can handle your calendar like a pro. Double bookings? Canceled sessions with no warning? Say goodbye to that mess. The best platforms offer integrations with Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, and others. Bonus if they offer buffer times, automatic time zone detection, and custom availability settings.
This one feature alone can make or break your client experience. A smooth scheduling flow shows you’re serious, reliable, and organized.
Payment Gateways
Getting paid should be simple—for both you and your clients. Look for platforms that integrate with major payment processors like Stripe, PayPal, and even offer global currency options. Some platforms even allow payment plans, subscriptions, and promo codes.
Never make it hard for someone to give you money. Period.
Communication Tools
Whether it’s live chat, email automation, or video conferencing, seamless communication is key. Some platforms offer in-built Zoom integrations or even their own native video calling features. Others come with pre-made email templates and workflows to keep the client journey flowing smoothly.
Client Management and CRM
You should be able to keep tabs on all your clients in one place—notes, goals, progress, and past sessions. A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system helps you personalize your coaching and track success. It's not just about staying organized; it's about offering a high-touch, premium experience.
Marketing and Sales Funnels
Look for platforms that offer built-in landing pages, opt-in forms, and email marketing tools. You need a way to turn visitors into leads and leads into paying clients—without hiring a full marketing team.
A good platform will help you build that client journey with ease, whether you’re running free discovery calls or multi-tier coaching programs.
Best Platforms to Sell Your Coaching Services
So now that we know what features to look for, let’s dig into the top platforms that can help you start, grow, or scale your coaching business. We’ve done the heavy lifting and selected the five best based on usability, features, pricing, and real-world results from successful coaches.
#1 – Kajabi: The All-in-One Business Hub
Kajabi is the Swiss Army knife of coaching platforms. It's more than just a place to host your services—it's an entire ecosystem built to help you monetize your knowledge.
Key Features
Built-in website builder with customizable themes
Online course and coaching program hosting
Email marketing and automation tools
CRM to manage leads and clients
Funnels and landing pages
Integrated payment processing
Podcast and blogging features
Scheduling integration with Calendly or third-party apps
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Truly all-in-one, no need for third-party tools
Clean, professional-looking designs
Powerful automation for email sequences and sales funnels
Scalable from solopreneurs to coaching teams
Cons:
Pricier than others, especially for beginners
Steep learning curve for complete newbies
Ideal For
If you're looking to build a full-fledged online business around your coaching—courses, memberships, webinars, etc.—Kajabi is your best friend. It’s perfect for coaches who want one place to handle everything from marketing to delivery.
#2 – Teachable: Simplifying Course and Coaching Sales
Teachable started as a course platform but has evolved into a solid choice for coaches, especially those offering 1-on-1 or group sessions along with digital products.
Key Features
Easy course and coaching program creation
Sales pages and checkout integrations
Subscription and one-time payment options
Basic email notifications and automation
Client appointment scheduling via integrations
Built-in tax handling and analytics
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Very user-friendly for beginners
Excellent for selling digital courses alongside coaching
Simple, clean user interface
No coding required to get started
Cons:
Limited marketing tools unless integrated with third-party software
Not ideal for complex client management
Ideal For
Teachable is great for coaches who focus heavily on content and want a simple way to package and sell it. If you’re just starting out or your coaching is heavily course-based, this platform is worth considering.
#3 – Thinkific: Flexible and User-Friendly
Thinkific offers a similar feature set to Teachable but with more flexibility and a better design experience. It allows you to offer coaching sessions alongside courses and bundles.
Key Features
Drag-and-drop course builder
Private and group coaching options
Landing page templates and design tools
Custom branding capabilities
Accepts global payments with Stripe and PayPal
Quizzes, surveys, and student communities
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Flexible pricing plans including a free option
Strong branding customization
Great for both individual and group coaching
Built-in support for student progress tracking
Cons:
Advanced marketing requires integrations (e.g., with ConvertKit or Mailchimp)
Coaching features not as advanced as dedicated platforms
Ideal For
Thinkific is perfect for coaches who want a visually impressive platform with the ability to scale. It's especially strong if you’re offering a hybrid model with both coaching and courses.
#4 – Podia: Built for Simplicity and Conversion
Podia is another all-in-one platform that’s been growing rapidly. It’s known for its clean interface, simplicity, and strong sales conversion tools. If you want a no-fuss, elegant platform, Podia might be the one.
Key Features
Easy digital product and service setup
Live and on-demand webinars
Email marketing automation
Landing pages and sales funnels
Subscription, bundles, and upsell options
Customer chat feature to close leads
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Incredibly easy to use—even for beginners
Affordable pricing tiers
No transaction fees on paid plans
Supports everything from coaching to memberships
Cons:
Lacks some advanced CRM and automation features
Limited integrations compared to Kajabi
Ideal For
If you’re a solo coach looking to get started quickly without a tech headache, Podia is a dream. It's especially ideal for coaches who want to offer multiple products with minimal setup time.
#5 – CoachAccountable: Built Specifically for Coaches
CoachAccountable is a gem that flies under the radar. Unlike platforms that try to be everything to everyone, CoachAccountable is laser-focused on coaching.
Key Features
Session scheduling and calendar sync
Client portal for notes, goals, and resources
Progress tracking and reporting
Group coaching and team features
SMS and email reminders
Built-in invoicing and payment tracking
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Built with coaching workflows in mind
Personalized coaching dashboards
Deep client insights and goal tracking
Professional-level communication tools
Cons:
Not ideal for course-based models
UI feels dated compared to others
Ideal For
This platform is made for coaches who want to focus solely on 1-on-1 or group coaching with no distractions. It’s also excellent for executive coaches or consultants who need to show ROI with tracking tools.
How to Choose the Best Platform for Your Coaching Style
With so many choices, the real challenge is picking the right one for you. Here’s how to make that decision without getting stuck in analysis paralysis.
Define Your Coaching Goals
Start by asking yourself what your coaching business looks like today—and where you want it to go. Are you trying to scale with group coaching programs and online courses? Or are you focusing on high-ticket 1-on-1 sessions with premium clients?
If you're aiming for a course-coaching combo or plan to grow into a full-on digital business, platforms like Kajabi or Thinkific offer long-term scalability. If your primary focus is client management and personal touch, CoachAccountable might be your winner.
Understand Your Clients’ Needs
Consider the client experience from start to finish. Can they book with you easily? Do they get reminders? Can they access past sessions or resources in one spot?
Platforms like Podia or Teachable provide a smoother front-end experience for users unfamiliar with tech. On the flip side, more robust tools like Kajabi offer an immersive, branded experience that elevates your perceived value.
Budget and Investment Considerations
Don't pick the platform with the most bells and whistles if it’s going to financially stress you out. Start where you are. Most platforms offer free trials or low-cost starter plans. You can always upgrade as your revenue grows.
For shoestring budgets or those testing the waters, Teachable and Thinkific are solid. If you’re ready to invest in a more comprehensive solution, Kajabi will pay off over time.
Tips to Maximize Your Coaching Sales Online
Choosing the right platform is just the start. Here’s how to actually get clients and keep them coming.
Use Social Proof and Testimonials
People trust other people. Nothing builds trust faster than a genuine client testimonial. Include success stories on your sales pages, email campaigns, and even in your booking flows.
Video testimonials work even better. Use your platform’s landing pages or course intros to embed these. Platforms like Kajabi and Podia make this super easy.
Offer Free Value First
It’s hard to sell a $2,000 coaching package to someone who just discovered you. But give them a free downloadable guide, a mini-course, or a short discovery call? Now you’ve got a warm lead.
Use email automation (Kajabi, Podia) to guide these leads through a funnel—freebie to intro session to paid program. It builds trust and gives them a taste of your coaching magic.
Bundle Services and Upsells
If you're only offering 1-on-1 sessions, you're leaving money on the table. Create packages, bundles, or tiered coaching programs. Offer “gold,” “silver,” and “platinum” levels with increasing access or bonuses.
Most platforms allow you to set up bundles. Thinkific and Kajabi even let you automate upsells during the checkout process—boosting your revenue without lifting a finger.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Platform
There’s no shortage of advice online, but these are the pitfalls we see coaches fall into time and time again:
Overcomplicating tech: Don’t try to duct-tape five different platforms together when one will do.
Ignoring branding: Your platform should reflect your professionalism, not look like a DIY disaster.
Skipping free trials: Always test-drive the platform. What looks good on paper might feel clunky in action.
Choosing based only on price: Going cheap can cost you more in lost clients and wasted time.
Not scaling with growth in mind: Pick a platform you can grow into, not out of.
Conclusion: The Right Platform Equals Coaching Success
Here’s the bottom line: you can be the best coach in the world, but if your clients can’t find you, book you, or pay you easily—your business won’t grow. That’s why choosing the right platform isn’t just a technical decision—it’s a strategic move that can make or break your coaching empire.
Each of the five platforms we discussed—Kajabi, Teachable, Thinkific, Podia, and CoachAccountable—has its unique strengths and ideal use cases. Whether you’re a beginner looking to launch a simple program or an established coach aiming to scale your business operations, there’s a platform designed to match your goals.
Start by getting clear on what kind of coaching you want to offer, how you want to deliver it, and how involved you want to be in marketing and client management. Once you’re aligned with your vision, the right platform will not only support your workflow but also enhance your client’s experience, making it easier for them to say “yes” to working with you.
In a digital-first world, your platform is more than just a tool—it’s your office, your storefront, and your brand hub. Choose wisely, set it up with care, and you’ll be well on your way to building a profitable and impactful coaching business.
FAQs
1. Which coaching platform is best for beginners?
Teachable is the most beginner-friendly platform with a simple interface and low barrier to entry. It allows coaches to start selling quickly without needing technical knowledge.
2. Can I use more than one platform at a time?
Yes, many coaches use a combination of platforms. For example, Kajabi for marketing and courses, and CoachAccountable for 1-on-1 coaching sessions. Just make sure they integrate well or don't complicate your process.
3. Is Kajabi better than Teachable?
It depends on your needs. Kajabi offers a more comprehensive all-in-one solution but comes with a steeper learning curve and higher price tag. Teachable is simpler and more budget-friendly but lacks some advanced features.
4. What is the cheapest platform for coaching?
Thinkific and Teachable offer free plans, making them excellent choices for coaches on a tight budget. However, these plans come with limitations, so be prepared to upgrade as you grow.
5. Do these platforms help with marketing?
Platforms like Kajabi and Podia include built-in marketing tools like email sequences, funnels, and landing pages. Others like Thinkific require third-party integrations for advanced marketing.