Online life coach (one-to-one)

Individuals going through a career change, a life transition or a stuck patch, often found through word of mouth, social media or a niche community.

Hourly session fees or monthly packages (for example, a set number of sessions over three months). Packages bring steadier income than single sessions.

• Listening and asking good questions
• Staying neutral and encouraging
• Planning and follow-through
• Clear boundaries about what coaching is

• Coaching is generally not a regulated profession in Canada, but check your province, as Quebec has its own rules and French-language requirements for client-facing materials
• Never promise results or offer therapy, and refer clients to a licensed professional if mental health issues come up
• Check whether professional liability insurance suits your practice
• Check with your municipality about a home-based business licence
• Register your business with your province and check whether you need GST/HST registration once revenue passes the small supplier threshold

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $5,000, depending on your equipment, training and marketing. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $400 to $4,000, depending on how many clients you coach and what you charge.

Coaching is generally not a regulated profession in Canada, but check your province, as Quebec has its own rules and French-language requirements. Also check professional liability insurance, a home-based business licence with your municipality, provincial registration and GST/HST.

It is estimated to need at least about 6 hours a week, depending on your client numbers. Useful skills include listening, asking good questions, staying neutral and encouraging, planning, and keeping clear boundaries. Coaching is not therapy, so refer mental health concerns.