3262
7 min 33 sec

Q&A: “Should I raise my coaching rates or add more clients?”

Today’s caller has two levers—charge a bit more or work a bit more. We’ll test both in plain numbers, then show why nudging the price usually wins for a solo coach.

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What It's About

Will a modest rate bump outrun the hustle of adding more clients?

Notes from Chris

Episode 3262
Service businesses hit a hard ceiling: a week only holds so many billable hours. When the calendar is close to full, growth comes down to choosing the right lever—charge a bit more or squeeze in more sessions. One path protects energy and often improves perceived value; the other risks dilution, context switching, and creeping burnout.

Today’s caller doesn’t need a rebrand or a funnel—just clear math and a small, real-world test. Price the next couple of inquiries at the higher rate, set a firm session cap, and let behavior (not fear) decide. We’ll show how a modest fee bump can lift profit per hour without sacrificing quality.

"I’m a lifestyle improvement coach billing around 20 client hours a week at $100 per session. My calendar is already near capacity, so growth options feel limited. I keep debating: is it better to raise my rates by 10% for existing and new clients, or pour effort into marketing to land 10% more people at the current price? I’m worried a price increase triggers churn, but I also don’t want to burn out chasing more clients for the same money. How do I figure out which lever—price or volume—will actually improve net profit fastest?"

Listen to today's episode to learn more...

 
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Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!

Yours in the revolution,

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To infinity and beyond,

Chris Guillebeau