Here's a crucial topic for all new coaches: the common branding mistake that might be draining your resources. This episode is packed with wisdom on building a solid coaching business foundation without falling into the costly trap of prioritising aesthetics over substance.

Key Takeaways:

• [00:01:00] Jo shares her observations on the biggest mistake new coaches make: investing in a flashy website and logo before securing clients.
• [00:02:00] The importance of focusing on building a solid business foundation rather than getting caught up in the branding illusion.
• [00:04:00] Jo emphasises that your brand is more about your reputation and the transformation you bring to clients' lives than just your visual identity.
• [00:05:00] Clarifying your niche is highlighted as the first critical step in building a successful coaching business, far before considering website colors.
• [00:06:00] Validation of your niche and offer is crucial before investing in branding to ensure people are willing to pay for your coaching.
• [00:07:00] Jo advises on creating a simple, effective online presence without spending a fortune, using tools like Canva and affordable web solutions.
• [00:09:00] The power of storytelling in branding is discussed as a key strategy for connecting with your audience and building trust.
• [00:11:00] Investing in branding before having a clear business direction is likened to putting the cart before the horse, a common startup error.
• [00:13:00] Jo reflects on her own journey, emphasizing that a significant investment in branding and websites can wait until you've established your business's foundations.

Resources Mentioned:

• Episode 14 of Women in the Coaching Arena - 5 Steps to a Profitable Niche
• Episode 10 of Women in the Coaching Arena - How to create a signature coaching offer
• Brandority - Various Branding and Website options starting at just £20 for a one page Canva website.

Useful Links

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✨ 2026 Coaches’ Planner – Your Three Ways to Join In

A few years ago, I couldn’t find a planner that truly supported coaches - something that balanced growing a business with growing as a person. So, I created one. Three years on, it’s become a trusted tool for hundreds of coaches to plan an aligned and prosperous year.

You can now choose the option that suits you best (links below)

1️⃣ Free Digital Download – Get instant access to the online version of the 2026 Coaches’ Planner.

2️⃣ Printed Planner on Amazon – Order your copy to write in and keep by your side all year.

3️⃣ Dare Greatly Online Workshop – Thursday 4 December – Join me live as we plan together. You’ll receive a printed planner in the post plus a few thoughtful extras.

Whichever option you choose, my hope is that this planner helps you create a calm, clear, and successful year ahead.

➡️ [Free Online Planner] https://go.joannalottcoaching.com/coachesplanner2026

➡️ [Printed Planner on Amazon] https://www.amazon.co.uk/Coaches-Planner-2026-consultants-consistency/dp/B0FV3DQ8V4/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1K6IASZ8YOHGF&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bPB7Zw1dBezrBieI2MEsdrQfqylgICUqPJ9QXdKZUqlXs1Yr47rEdeKXJ0XTYfC2YUOui89OZjyByQv7J8OLGC76g-n7ptt4Ob1gDOPHkVLN_KfK6H1evsn1ZVgyUxNOhRtjji5M49hJbpjKLE4fPxENyBpJ0TuAcvSgojQSFjpaGaL9ipLyzdgx9HKAYIbbvO7KImGv9VxdapS3ZfwX2wYyRTyKLRawsHdCKC9g1oo.kS1PJECkcq56GerMhTyXw371PUAR5mpMwlwiIAuYSkI&dib_tag=se&keywords=2026+COACHES+PLANNER&qid=1762513816&s=books&sprefix=2026+coaches+planner%2Cstripbooks%2C1186&sr=1-4&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.95fd378e-6299-4723-b1f1-3952ffba15af

➡️ [Join the Dare Greatly Online Workshop] https://go.joannalottcoaching.com/DEC25ONLINEDAREGREATLY