Starting out as an online course creator, coach or mentor can feel like a chicken-and-egg problem. You know you have the skills and the drive, but without a track record, establishing credibility can seem almost impossible. How do you build trust when you’re just getting started?

The good news is that there are straightforward steps you can take right now to start building your reputation and credibility—even if you’re a brand-new to this. I’ll walk you through three foundational steps that don’t require a huge following or a ton of experience but can make a big difference.

1. Post Consistent, High-Value Content

If there’s one thing that separates credible coaches from those who get ignored, it’s the consistency and value of their content. Showing up regularly on your chosen platform—whether that’s a Newsletter/Blog, Podcast, YouTube channel or Online Group (like Facebook) — shows potential clients that you’re not just dabbling; you’re committed. It also gives them a chance to see what you’re all about and what you have to offer.

But it’s not just about posting frequently. Every piece of content you put out there should aim to answer a real question, tackle a pain point, or provide a quick win for your audience. Imagine each post as a mini version of your coaching session. This way, people start associating your brand with value, reliability, and, eventually, results.

Here are a few ideas for content that can build your credibility fast:

• Tips or Quick Wins: Share small, actionable tips that are relevant to your audience’s biggest struggles.
• Personal Stories or Lessons Learned: Open up about your own journey, especially if you can relate it to the challenges your ideal clients face.
• Weekly Series or Themes: Create a consistent format like “Mindset Mondays” or “Quick Tip Thursdays” to keep your audience engaged and looking forward to each week’s content.

Consistency is key here, and so is quality. Post once a week to start. Over time, you’ll not only build a steady stream of content but also establish your presence as a serious, credible coach.

2. Share Client Wins and Case Studies (Even the Small Ones)

Nothing builds credibility like social proof. When potential clients see others who’ve achieved results from your coaching, it sends a powerful message that you’re someone who can actually deliver. Now, if you’re new and don’t have a long list of clients, don’t worry—you can still use this technique effectively.

Start with any small wins you’ve achieved with early clients, even if they’re minor victories. Did someone feel a breakthrough in mindset after a session with you? Did they make progress toward a goal they’d been putting off? These small wins are exactly the kinds of stories that build your credibility over time.

Here’s a pro tip: If you don’t have many client results yet, start with your own success or lessons learned. Share stories from your own journey and connect them to the type of transformation you’ll be guiding clients toward. Another option is to offer a few free sessions in exchange for testimonials when you’re just starting—these can be invaluable in those early stages.

3. Create and Share a Proven Path (Even a Simple One)

Finally, let’s talk about having a clear process. Many new coaches underestimate how important it is to have a structured, step-by-step approach, but having a roadmap or framework for your coaching shows clients that you’re professional, organized, and know where you’re going.

A proven path is essentially a structured process that takes clients from where they are now to where they want to be. It could be as simple as a three- or five-step model that’s specific to your niche and expertise. The important part is to make it clear and show clients that there’s a method to your work.

For example, in my Impact & Income Accelerator Program I have 6 steps that take people from having no idea what they will coach on right the way through to an established program on a solid platform with clients being transformed! Demonstrating and talking about those 6 steps is key to helping people see that I know what I’m talking about and can genuinely help them.

People love clarity, and when they can see that you have a clear plan to help them get results, they’re much more likely to trust you and consider working with you. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel or come up with a complex system—just something simple that’s tied to real steps your clients can expect to take.

Wrapping It All Up

Starting out as a coach can be a bit of a challenge, but by taking these three essential steps—posting consistent, high-value content, sharing wins and case studies, and developing a proven path—you’re laying a solid foundation for credibility.

Here’s the best part: Building credibility isn’t about being the loudest or having the biggest following. It’s about providing real value, showing up consistently, and letting your work speak for itself.

Let’s build your impact and income—one step at a time.

Standing with you,

Simon

How I Can Help

If you’re ready to learn more about creating a successful online course, coaching or mentoring program, here are some ways we can work together to bring your vision to life:

1. Subscribe to The Raw News

If you're not already receiving it, get weekly tips, tactics, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox to help you build your online coaching program. Sign up here.

2. Join My FREE Facebook Group

Become part of a community of aspiring coaches, mentors and course creators in the Online Course & Coach Accelerator group. Here we share resources, answer questions, and provide feedback to help you grow. Join us here.

3. Sign Up for my Impact & Income Accelerator Program

If you’re ready to take the leap, my Impact & Income Accelerator Program is a 3-6 month course that guides people to turn their knowledge into their first scalable online coaching program so that they can create lasting impact and generate increasingly passive income. More information here.