Finding your first few coaching clients isn’t always easy, especially if you’re not ready to spend money on ads. But here’s the good news:

People are already searching for coaches like you.

Life coach directories are one of the simplest ways to get discovered by new clients online. Let’s break down what they are, why they work, and 10 of the best directories you can join today.

What Is a Life Coach Directory?

A life coach directory is an online listing where potential clients can browse and connect with their ideal coaches based on specific criteria, such as:

• Location or time zone
• Coaching specialty (career, health, relationships, etc.)
• Certifications or training background
• Coaching experience
• Languages spoken

Most directories are free for clients to search. Coaches may pay a subscription fee or a one-time listing fee to be included, although this is not always the case.

For coaches, the main benefit is visibility. Instead of convincing people they need a coach, you’re putting yourself in front of people who are already searching for one. That makes directories an organic way to attract clients, especially when you’re just starting out.

Some of the key advantages of joining a directory include:

• Ready-made visibility: People browsing are actively seeking a coach.
• Lead generation: A steady stream of potential clients without paid ads.
• Credibility: Being listed alongside other successful coaches can build trust.
• Early traction: Great for new coaches gathering testimonials or building experience.

Of course, directories aren’t a magic bullet. You’ll be competing with other coaches, and some clients may shop primarily by price. That’s why it’s best to treat directories as one strategy in your client acquisition efforts, alongside other avenues of marketing.

👉 Pro tip: Once clients find you through a directory, you’ll need a website where you can feature your services in more detail and manage new sign-ups. Paperbell gives you a ready-made website with bookings, payments, and contracts plugged into it. Try it for free today.

How to Choose the Right Life Coach Directory

Some life coach directories are broad and list every type of coach, while others focus on specific niches, audiences, or geographic regions.

When evaluating a directory, consider:

• Fit with your business model: Some platforms set your schedule or hourly rate for you, which limits control over your client experience. If you prefer flexibility, look for directories that let you manage these details yourself.
• Your target clients: Check whether the directory attracts the kind of people you want to work with before committing time or money.
• Cost vs. value: Some directories are free, while others charge a monthly or annual fee. Make sure the investment aligns with the visibility and leads you expect.

And remember, you don’t have to limit yourself to just one. Joining multiple directories can broaden your reach and increase your chances of being discovered by the right clients.

10 Top Life Coach Directories to Get Listed On

Finding the right coach can be life-changing. You might just be the best coach for someone struggling with an area of their personal or professional life, such as their health, career, lifestyle, relationship, or overall confidence.

If they are a good fit, you can help them achieve lasting change, empowering them to fulfil their wildest dreams. Here’s where to find them.

1. 🏆 CoachCompare (Our Pick!)

If you only choose one directory, make it CoachCompare, our sister site. Unlike others that focus on geography, CoachCompare organizes coaches by specialty, making it easier for clients to find exactly what they need.

The platform has a clean, modern design that feels professional and client-friendly. You can tag your specific coaching niche, like women managers and entrepreneurs unsure about how to move forward, or leaders with performance anxiety.

If you’re a certified life coach, you can feature your qualifications to stand out. Make sure you show your passion and enthusiasm for your expertise to create a profile you’ll be proud to share.

2. Trusted Coach Directory

Designed for executive and leadership coaching, Trusted Coach Directory only features thoroughly vetted coaches who have proven their success in the industry.

Coaches listed here must meet high standards, such as credentials, experience, supervision, insurance, and memberships. These all signal excellence and add a layer of trust and credibility.

3. Noomii

Noomii remains one of the largest coach networks available with powerful visibility across a diverse range of coaching niches. They offer tiered membership options with varying commission rates and premium benefits.

With strong SEO and client matching built in for paid members, Noomii is a powerful option if you’re looking to boost lead generation and visibility.

4. The Life Coach School Directory

This directory is exclusively for the certified life coaches of the Life Coach School (LCS). If you’ve completed the LCS certification, your coaching profile becomes part of their directory, making it a great option for those who value association with the organization’s reputation and methodology.

5. WiseHead

WiseHead is a free global directory that helps coaches fill their calendars and focus on coaching while the platform handles the logistics. Coaches can set their own hourly rate and working hours, and clients can book directly through the site.

Features include PayPal payment processing, integrated video calls (Zoom, Skype, Google Meet), and session management tools.

6. Craigslist

It’s an oldie but a goodie! Craigslist isn’t of the past; people still search for local services on it every day. More and more coaches join this platform to list their services, so it’s worth having a page on here too.

7. The Life Coach Directory

The Life Coach Directory is a global platform where basic listings are free. A premium listing costs $15 a month and includes benefits like expanded profile content, articles, embedded media, and an SEO-friendly review and rating system.

8. Bark

Bark is a lead-generation marketplace for all types of local services and small business owners, including life coaching. Coaches only pay when they choose to contact and talk to a potential client, and receive their direct phone and email details. With no commissions, it’s a cost-effective solution if you want to vet your leads carefully.

9. International Association of Professional Life Coaches

Joining the International Association of Professional Life Coaches costs $47, which includes both a directory listing as well as monthly training sessions and masterclasses.

10. BetterUp

BetterUp operates more like a coaching agency than a directory. Coaches apply by submitting their credentials and experience, and once accepted, they get matched with clients through AI.

BetterUp’s programs focus on Whole Person™ growth, offering one-on-one coaching, group sessions, and specialist support in areas like career development, communication, wellbeing, and leadership.

Coaches who join the platform gain access to streamlined scheduling, automated payments, and a strong peer community with ongoing professional development events.

FAQ

How Do I Get Listed in Coaching Directories?

Most directories let you apply online by creating a profile with your details, niche, and qualifications. Some require you to be a certified coach or pay a membership fee.

Do Coaching Directories Actually Bring in Clients?

Yes, but results vary. Directories connect you with people already seeking a coach, but since more and more coaches join them, competition can be high. They work best alongside other marketing strategies.

Should I Pay for Premium Directory Listings?

Only if the directory matches your niche and ideal clients. Paid listings may give you more visibility, but free profiles are often a good starting point.

What Information Should I Include in My Directory Profile?

Most life coaches add their niche, coaching style, client results, and a clear call to action. If you’re a certified life coach, be sure to mention that. A photo with personality and an engaging bio also builds trust.

How Many Directories Should I Be Listed In?

List in multiple directories if they’re relevant to your audience. Just make sure you can keep each profile updated and consistent with your brand.

Find Clients and Manage Them Seamlessly

Life coach directories can help you get discovered, but once clients find you, you’ll need a smooth way to handle bookings, payments, and contracts.

That’s where Paperbell comes in. It’s the all-in-one coaching website and client management platform designed for coaches to run their business with ease. Try it free and see how effortless running a coaching business can be.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in October 2022 and has since been updated for accuracy.