How do you find clients for coaching (ProBono)or testimonials when you start? ( Applies to service business also)

This question was asked in some WhatsApp groups I am in.

I wrote a detailed answer.

I hope it helps someone here.

I would share what worked for me.

Of course, it was 7 or 8 years before.

The strategy may be the same: change the media you are using to today’s times. (God ! I sound so old when I type this).

This is for finding real people who need coaching (Pro Bono).

1. Choose a niche or a problem you want to work on (e.g., Parents with teen kids working on bridging gaps, women or men with relationship issues, professionals looking for a career break, etc. ).

2. I did it with Facebook groups; now, you can go with WhatsApp or LinkedIn groups, whatever is relevant to you. Choose ONE. Whatever you choose, build a solid profile that shows your authentic self.

3. Join the 2 or 3 groups in the relevant niche. Choose the recent active one. Don’t worry about the numbers. I have got clients from small active groups.

4. observe the challenges they are discussing for a day or two.

5. Start asking coaching questions. Be respectful. Probe gently.

6. If the person continues the conversation, offer free 1 to 1 coaching sessions, mentioning you are doing this as it supports you in collecting pro bono hours and maybe market research when you launch your program. Be genuine.

7. Even if the particular person isn’t interested, someone following the post may contact you in DM or the group for sessions.

8. If you can create a relationship of trust and safety after 2 or 3 sessions, offer paid coaching, ask for testimonials, or ask for a minimum energy exchange, depending on your understanding of your client.

9. Create a Calendly or Google link for scheduling appointments. Emphasise that both of your time is precious and ask the client to respect yours and their time.

10. Disclaimer—When I started this a few years back, I worked with clients from Western countries at night, as I had a day job in a bank. They respected my time, and rarely did I have any no-shows.

Each one of us may have different experiences. Don’t join groups where people only promote their products or services. Join the groups where no promotion is allowed.

11. Important—Contact the group's admin, express your intention clearly, and ask for their consent before you do anything. When the admins support you, your credibility increases in the group.

12.No promise of immediate results. Give yourself some time to build credibility in the group as a coach.