Requirements

Equipment and Technology

Reliable computer with webcam $800-1,500
High-speed internet connection $50-100/month
Quality headset/microphone $50-150
Professional lighting (optional but recommended) $30-100
Video conferencing software (Zoom Pro) $15-25/month
Scheduling software (Calendly, Acuity) $10-20/month
Client management system (Paperbell, Satori) $30-70/month

Skills and Competencies

Core Coaching Skills

Active listening
Powerful questioning techniques
Goal-setting frameworks
Accountability structures
Feedback delivery

Business Skills

Basic marketing and client acquisition
Sales and enrollment conversations
Service packaging and pricing
Time management
Client relationship management

Qualifications and Credentials

While formal certification is not legally required in most regions, credentials significantly enhance credibility and client acquisition.

Recommended Certifications

ICF Certification (ACC, PCC, or MCC levels) $3,000-7,000
Specialized coaching school (iPEC, CTI, Co-Active) $4,000-12,000
Niche-specific certification (fitness, nutrition, business) $1,000-3,000

Alternative Credibility Builders

Relevant professional experience in your coaching niche
Advanced degrees related to your coaching focus
Published content demonstrating expertise (articles, books, podcast)
Documented client success stories and testimonials

Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Requirements vary by location. Always check local regulations in your jurisdiction.

Business registration (LLC recommended for liability protection) $50-500
Professional liability insurance (errors & omissions) $500-1,000/year
Business license (if required in your locality) $25-200
Client contracts and coaching agreements $100-300
Privacy policy and data protection compliance (GDPR, etc.) $0-200
Clear scope of practice documentation to avoid practicing in regulated fields (therapy, financial advising, medical advice) without proper licensing

Total Estimated Startup Costs

Investment Level	Estimated Cost	What's Included
Minimal Startup	$1,000-2,000	Basic equipment, business registration, simple website, minimal software subscriptions
Professional Startup	$3,000-5,000	Quality equipment, business formation, insurance, basic certification, professional website, essential software
Premium Startup	$8,000-15,000+	High-end equipment, comprehensive ICF certification, business formation, premium website, full software suite, initial marketing budget

Pro Tip: Many coaches start with minimal investment while maintaining their primary income, then reinvest earnings to gradually upgrade credentials and systems as their practice grows.

Requirements for Starting a Coaching and Mentorship Sidegig