April 12, 2022
Business coaching has become increasingly popular among UK businesses in recent years. The coaching industry has grown significantly and has become a valuable resource for individuals, entrepreneurs, and organisations seeking to develop their skills, performance, and achieve their business goals. In this article, we will explore what business coaches charge UK and factors that influence their fees.
Business coaching for small businesses is a process that involves working with a trained professional coach to identify areas of strengths and weaknesses, set goals, develop strategies to overcome challenges and achieve success in various aspects of business. The coach provides guidance, support, feedback on individual or group performance through regular sessions.
A professional coach helps clients to understand themselves better by exploring their values, beliefs and motivations. The coach also focuses on developing the client's self-awareness level so that they can recognise any barriers or obstacles that are currently blocking them from being successful.
The importance of business coaching is recognised by many organisations in the UK who invest significant funds into training programs designed to improve skillsets. Coaching allows employees at all levels to reach their full potential by providing them with tailored development support specific to their needs. It also offers an opportunity for entrepreneurs to work through challenges as they grow the business.
In addition to supporting personal development efforts within organisations, the advantages of external coaching services are attracting many businesses. With experienced external coaches working alongside company leaders or teams on specific projects such as leadership development or change management initiatives - ROI is quickly realised.
The cost of hiring a business coach can vary depending on multiple factors such as experience level and specialisation area among others which we will explore later in this article. Business coaches in the UK typically charge clients on an hourly or package basis. The cost of one-on-one coaching sessions ranges from £100 to £500 per hour, with executive coaches charging higher at up to £2,000 per hour.
Group coaching sessions (with access to learning platforms like Kajabi) are less expensive and can cost between £50 to £250 per person per session. Coaches may offer discounts for group sessions with more participants or offer a flat fee for a package that includes several sessions.
Business coaching is an essential tool for professionals and businesses looking to maximise their potential and overcome challenges. As the demand grows across the UK, so too does the industry's rate and fees charged by experienced coaches.
When considering the costs associated with business coaching, it's helpful to distinguish between small business coaches and other coaching specialists, such as executive or leadership coaches. For those working with small business owners, hourly rates tend to range from around £300 to £400 per session, though it's not unusual for highly sought-after coaches to command fees at the upper end of this scale.
One-to-one coaching is typically where the highest fees are seen, as it offers tailored guidance and focused attention. In contrast, group coaching, although priced lower per participant, often between £50 and £250 per session, can lead to greater overall earnings due to the larger number of clients involved. Some coaches offer a blend of one-to-one and group sessions, providing flexibility for different learning preferences and budgets.
When comparing these fees to those of executive coaches, you'll find executive coaching generally sits at the top of the pricing spectrum. Coaches who work with senior leaders, think CEOs, COOs, and directors, routinely charge fees upwards of £500 per hour, with some well-established practitioners charging as much as £2,000 per hour, particularly when experience and a track record with global brands like PwC or Google are in play.
Ultimately, the rate a coach can charge depends not only on their specialisation but also on the value perceived by their clients, level of customisation, and the reputation they've built in the industry. Understanding these variations helps both coaches and clients make informed decisions about which services align best with their needs and budget.
One of the most significant factors that influence a business coach's charge is their experience and expertise. Coaches who have more years of experience and have successfully helped numerous clients are likely to charge higher fees than those who are just starting their careers. They have developed a reputation for producing positive results, which attracts more clients to them.
Furthermore, coaches with specialised knowledge or skills in specific areas such as marketing, sales, or leadership tend to charge higher fees because they provide unique value to their clients. They may also be able to command higher rates because they can solve complex problems quickly.
For those just embarking on their business coaching journey, it's common to start at a lower rate, often around £400 to £600 per month, as new coaches focus on building both their skills and their track record. These initial fees help attract early clients while providing valuable hands-on experience.
As coaches accumulate results and positive testimonials, confidence naturally builds, and so do rates. Successful coaches often find themselves increasing their monthly fees in stages: for example, moving from £600 to £1,000, then to £1,500 or even £2,000 per month as they solidify their reputation and deliver measurable outcomes for their clients.
With time and a demonstrable track record, including strong client feedback and the ability to tackle more complex challenges, some experienced coaches may command premium rates, sometimes reaching £3,000 per month or more. It's not unusual, especially in high-demand specialisms or when providing intensive, bespoke support, for fees to climb further if a coach’s schedule and expertise warrant it.
This progressive approach allows coaches to remain accessible as they start out, while ensuring their rates reflect the value they bring as their experience grows.
Business coaches offer various types of coaching services: one-on-one coaching, group coaching, online coaching, or a combination of these methods. Different methods require different levels of effort from the coach; hence the charges are different. One-on-one coaching is often considered more personalised than group or online coaching since it involves one coach working with one client at a time.
As such, one-on-one coaches tend to charge higher fees per hour due to the exclusivity factor. Group coaching involves several people being coached together by a single coach.
This method allows for shared insights among participants; hence it charges less per person than an individual session. Online coaching has become quite popular due to its convenience and flexibility; however, it tends to cost less than in-person sessions.
Another key consideration that affects both pricing and income streams is how you present your services: are you a coach, or a consultant? While the two roles may seem similar on the surface, they differ in structure, client relationships, and long-term revenue.
Consultants are typically hired for short-term, project-based work. They focus on providing expert solutions to specific business problems, often charging higher upfront fees or day rates due to the scope and intensity of their involvement. However, once the project concludes and deliverables are handed over, the consultant’s relationship, and the accompanying revenue, generally comes to an end.
Coaches, on the other hand, are engaged for ongoing support and development. Instead of one-off projects, coaching tends to be built around sustained, collaborative growth over time. Coaches frequently charge on a retainer or recurring monthly basis. This model can generate a steadier, longer-term income, as it’s not limited to a single engagement but can continue for months or even years as clients pursue ongoing goals.
In summary, consultants may command larger payments upfront for their expertise, but coaches often realise greater lifetime earnings per client due to the enduring nature of their partnerships. This difference in approach not only shapes pricing but also directly influences your revenue predictability and business stability.
Clients often prefer coaches who specialise in their field since these coaches can provide tailored advice based on specific industry expertise and knowledge. For example, coaches specialising in healthcare may help healthcare professionals navigate complex industry-specific challenges better than general business coaches.
Coaches specialising in niche areas that require specialised knowledge may also command higher rates due to the value they bring. They understand the intricacies of their clients' industries, which makes them more valuable to them, allowing them to charge higher fees.
The location of a coach can also affect their charges. Coaches based in busy cities like London or Manchester may charge more than those based in less busy towns due to higher living costs and increased demand.
In addition, a coach's demand can also influence their pricing; the more clients they have, the higher the fees they may charge. Coaches who have gained popularity through word-of-mouth referrals or positive reviews on professional networks such as LinkedIn may also attract more clients who are willing to pay premium rates for their services.
Another key consideration for business coaches is the importance of establishing recurring revenue streams in their practice. Rather than relying solely on ad hoc, one-off sessions, many coaches find it far more sustainable, and ultimately more profitable, to offer their services as part of ongoing monthly packages or retainer agreements.
Recurring revenue brings several advantages:
It’s worth noting that positioning yourself for these longer-term partnerships often means shifting from a transactional “one-and-done” mindset, more common in consulting, to a collaborative approach focused on sustained growth. By prioritising ongoing support, you not only strengthen your client outcomes but also lay the foundation for a resilient coaching business.
Coaching services have become increasingly popular in the UK, especially for business owners and entrepreneurs who want to improve their performance and achieve their goals. However, the cost of hiring a coach can vary greatly depending on several factors such as their experience, expertise, type of services offered, and niche specialisation.
One-on-one coaching is a personalised service that focuses on specific objectives tailored to individual needs. The cost of one-on-one coaching varies from coach to coach, but generally ranges from £100 to £500 per hour.
This rate is often influenced by factors such as the coach's experience and expertise; an experienced coach with a proven track record may command higher fees than a less experienced one. Some coaches offer packages that include several sessions at a flat rate instead of billing hourly.
Rather than charging for single coaching sessions, many coaches now sell their services in monthly packages or retainer programmes. This approach benefits both the coach and the client: clients gain consistency and ongoing support to help them achieve lasting results, while coaches secure recurring revenue, making it easier to plan and grow their business.
These packages usually range from £1,000 to £5,000 and may include additional resources such as workbooks or assessments. For clients who require multiple sessions over an extended period, such bundled offerings often provide greater value and structure than pay-as-you-go arrangements.
This can be beneficial for clients who require multiple sessions over an extended period. These packages usually range from £1,000 to £5,000 and may include additional resources such as workbooks or assessments.
Executive coaching focuses on developing top-level executives' skills and leadership abilities. Therefore it requires specialised expertise and experience that comes at a higher price - Executive coaches charge higher fees ranging from £500 to £2000 per hour.
The cost is determined by various factors like the executive's position within the organisation or company nature. An executive working in finance might pay more than one working in retail due to different levels of complexity involved.
Group coaching offers participants an opportunity to share experiences with others while receiving guidance from a qualified business coach. Typically group sessions range from 6-12 people with rates ranging between £50-£250 per person per session depending on duration and size.
Some coaches offer discounts for groups with more participants, making it more affordable for small business owners and entrepreneurs on a budget. Group coaching can be an excellent option for those who seek peer support while still receiving personalised guidance from a coach.
Finding the right coach is crucial to the success of any business owner or entrepreneur. Though hiring a coach may cost you some money, it's worth investing in because of the benefits that come with it.
The cost of hiring a business coach in the UK varies, but generally ranges from £50 for group sessions to over £1000 per session depending on factors such as expertise and specialisation. Always evaluate your options and choose a coach that suits your needs and budget while also delivering quality services.
Business coaching often entails face-to-face meetings between the coach and the client. In some cases, clients may prefer that the coach meets them at their location. Depending on where the client is located, this could lead to additional travel expenses for the coach.
Some coaches may opt to pass these costs on to their clients directly, while others include them in their hourly rates or package fees. These travel expenses can include fuel for driving, train tickets, parking, or even overnight accommodation if sessions require significant travel or multiple days. Especially for in-person coaching arrangements, these costs can accumulate quickly if meetings are frequent or the distance is substantial. With the rise of online coaching, spurred in part by the COVID-19 pandemic, clients can often avoid these additional travel fees by opting for virtual sessions. Nevertheless, it is vital to clarify any travel-related expenses before hiring a business coach so you can budget accordingly.
Business coaches often provide resources such as books, assessments, and other tools that are necessary for successful coaching sessions. The costs of these materials are generally included in the coaching fees, but it is worth checking with your potential business coach about what materials they provide and whether there are any additional costs associated with them.
Some packages may come with comprehensive workbooks or access to digital platforms, while others might require clients to purchase certain resources separately. Knowing what’s included upfront can help you avoid unexpected expenses down the line.
Most professionals schedule appointments using coaching scheduling software; however, some coaches offer additional support outside of these sessions through email or phone calls. Some business coaches include this support in their package fees.
Others may charge an additional hourly fee for this type of service. It can be beneficial to discuss this type of support with your potential coach before starting a working relationship so that you have a good understanding of how much it will cost if you require additional support outside strictly scheduled sessions.
Support between sessions may be offered via phone, email, or messaging for urgent questions or ongoing accountability. Some coaches are happy to provide brief check-ins as part of the package, while others treat extra communication as a billable service. Make sure to clarify the terms and any associated costs for out-of-session support so you know exactly what to expect.
If you’re thinking about starting your journey as a business coach, it’s wise to consider not just your earning potential, but also the common out-of-pocket expenses that come with the role. Much like any other profession, building a credible and effective coaching practice requires a bit of investment up front, and some ongoing along the way. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
Many business coaches start out offering face-to-face sessions, especially if clients prefer hands-on interaction. This can quickly rack up costs in several ways, including:
If most of your work is remote (Zoom and Teams to the rescue), this may not be a major concern. But for those planning to travel regularly, it’s essential to budget for these additional expenses.
An effective business coach will likely need to invest in professional resources, think books, assessment tools, or digital platforms like Gallup CliftonStrengths or DiSC profiling. Some resources are one-time purchases; others require ongoing subscriptions. Additionally, if you provide printed workbooks or branded handouts to clients, those printing and shipping costs come straight off your bottom line.
While scheduled sessions form the backbone of your client work, expect that clients may need extra support between meetings. That can mean:
Decide early if you’ll include this support in your standard packages or if you’ll charge separately for ad hoc help. Either way, be clear on your boundaries, and be sure to account for the time and resources this extra support requires.
Don’t overlook the other essentials: website hosting, ongoing marketing via platforms like LinkedIn or Google Ads, professional memberships (such as the International Coaching Federation), and continuing education or certifications.
Understanding these core expenses can help you set realistic fees, and design packages that provide value to your clients while keeping your business sustainable.
There are several factors influencing how much a business coach charges in the UK. The most important factors include experience and expertise level, types of services offered (one-on-one/group/online), specialisation niche industry/location/demand for services. Fees can also vary depending on whether travel expenses need reimbursement when materials/resources provided by coaches or fees for add-on services such as phone calls/emails.
Before hiring a coach, it is essential to clarify all costs upfront to avoid any surprises. With this article's knowledge, you are better equipped to find a business coach that suits your needs and budget in the UK market.
The cost of a business coach in the UK varies quite a bit. For one-on-one sessions, you might expect to pay between £100 and £500 per hour. Executive coaches, who work with senior leaders, can charge significantly more, sometimes up to £2,000 per hour. Group coaching sessions are generally more budget-friendly, costing around £50 to £250 per person.
Several things affect a business coach's fees. Their experience and expertise play a big part, as do the specific services they offer, such as one-on-one, group, or online coaching. Specialisation in a particular industry or niche, and their location, for example, if they are based in a major city, also influence their rates. A Comprehensive Guide suggests that coaches with a proven track record often command higher fees.
Yes, there is usually a difference. Small business coaches typically charge around £300 to £400 per session. Executive coaches, who work with high-level executives and address more complex organisational challenges, tend to have higher rates, often starting from £500 and going up to £2,000 per hour, especially if they have extensive experience with large corporations.
Many business coaches, as highlighted in A Comprehensive Guide, prefer to offer monthly packages or retainer programmes rather than just hourly rates. These packages usually range from £1,000 to £5,000 and provide ongoing support, which benefits both the client with consistent guidance and the coach with predictable income. They often include additional resources too.
Beyond the session fees, you might encounter additional costs. These could include travel expenses if you prefer in-person meetings, especially if the coach needs to travel a significant distance. There might also be charges for specific materials or resources provided, or fees for support outside of scheduled sessions, such as email or phone check-ins. It's always a good idea to clarify these potential extras upfront.