"I couldn't have done it without you!" is such a rewarding thing to hear as a coach or mentor. Two people said it to me spontaneously this week as they hit big milestones in their journey to creating their first online course.

It's one of the reasons I LOVE coaching people.

But how do you get started? How do you find your first 10 clients?

Let's cut through the noise. Getting your first 10 clients doesn't need to be complicated. In fact, overcomplicating things is usually what stops most people from ever getting started.

There's three keys to it - and the third is something you're actually doing already!

So, here's your straightforward roadmap to attracting those first crucial clients - even while working your 9-5.

1. Define Your Who and How

The biggest mistake I see people make? Trying to help everyone. I know - because I've been there. The key to attracting clients is getting crystal clear on two things:

- Who exactly you want to help

- How specifically you can help them

Here's a simple fill-in-the-blank exercise: "I help [specific type of person] to [achieve specific result]"

For example:

❌ "I help people get healthy" (too vague)

✅ "I help busy professionals create sustainable fitness habits in just 30 minutes a day" (specific and clear)

Take 5 minutes right now and write your statement. Don't overthink it - you can refine it later.

2. Create Content That Attracts

Here's the truth: you don't need to be everywhere. You just need to be consistent somewhere. Choose ONE platform based on what feels natural to you:

- Love talking on camera? Start with YouTube

- Enjoy casual conversations? Launch a podcast

- Prefer writing? Blog or LinkedIn is your sweet spot

The key is to pick what plays to your strengths. You don't need to force yourself to dance on TikTok if you're a natural writer.

Whatever platform you choose, focus on creating content that:

- Solves real problems your ideal clients face

- Shows your unique approach

- Demonstrates your expertise through practical tips

- Tells stories of transformation (even small wins count)

Important: Set up a simple way for interested people to join your email list. This could be as basic as offering a free guide or checklist related to your topic.

3. Have Real Conversations

Here's something most people don't tell you: your first 10 clients will likely come from your existing network or through word of mouth. Not from viral posts or fancy marketing campaigns.

Start having conversations about what you're doing. Not in a salesy way, but in a "Hey, I'm working on something interesting" way.

When people ask you what you're up to at the moment simply tell them!

"I've started helping [type of person] with [specific problem]."

or "I've started helping [type of person] to [specific goal]."

You'll be amazed at where conversations like this lead.

This approach works because it:

- Feels natural and non-pushy

- Shows you're genuinely trying to help

- Makes it easy for people to make connections

Remember: Your first clients don't need you to have a perfect website, a huge following, or even a polished process. They just need to trust that you can help them solve their problem.

Ready to Take Action?

Start with these three steps today:

1. Write your "I help..." statement

2. Choose your content platform and start creating something regularly

3. Tell three people about what you're working on

Want to see how I turned these exact principles into a thriving online course business (all while working my 9-5)? I've put together a free training that shows you my exact process. Check it out at therawleader.com/impact

Remember, getting your first 10 clients is about clarity, consistency, and conversations. Keep it simple, take action, and have fun!