The $100 MBA Show

Episode: MBA2624 Q&A Wednesday: How Do I Transition From 1-on-1 Coaching to Group Coaching
Host: Omar Zenhom
Release Date: May 14, 2025

Introduction: Scaling Beyond One-on-One Coaching

In this episode of The $100 MBA Show, host Omar Zenhom addresses a common challenge faced by coaches: transitioning from a one-on-one coaching model to a scalable group coaching program. Responding to a listener question from Suze, Omar delves into effective strategies to make this shift without sacrificing the personal touch that clients value.

Why Transition to Group Coaching?

Enhanced Value for Clients
Omar begins by highlighting the substantial benefits group coaching offers both clients and coaches. He emphasizes that group coaching can be more valuable for clients than one-on-one sessions. As Omar states at [03:18],

“We actually learn better by watching other people being coached.”

This observational learning allows clients to gain insights not only from the coach but also from the diverse challenges and solutions presented by other group members.

Community and Peer Support
Group coaching fosters a sense of community, providing clients with peer support that is often absent in one-on-one settings. This communal environment enables members to share experiences, offer feedback, and hold each other accountable, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Business Leverage and Scalability
For coaches, group coaching presents an opportunity to leverage their time more effectively, increase income without a proportional increase in hours worked, and reduce the risk of burnout. Omar notes,

“Group coaching allows you to reach more people with more energy and more freedom for yourself.” ([11:20])

This scalability means that coaches can expand their impact while maintaining a manageable workload.

The Four-Step Transition Framework

Omar outlines a clear, four-step process to transition from one-on-one to group coaching effectively:

1. Pick a Specific Result

At [04:04], Omar stresses the importance of defining clear, specific outcomes for the group coaching program. Unlike the broader scope of one-on-one coaching, group coaching should have a well-defined beginning and end state. Examples include:

• From zero confidence to launching their first product.
• From no clients to landing their first three high-ticket clients.
• From aspiring author to published author.

By focusing on the desired outcome, coaches can tailor their programs to meet specific client needs, allowing for higher perceived value and the ability to charge premium rates.

2. Structure the Curriculum

Omar advises against improvising the group coaching experience. Instead, he recommends creating an organized and repeatable framework. This involves:

• Weekly or Monthly Focuses: Each session should have a clear topic or goal.
• Live Group Calls: Incorporate Q&A sessions, hot seats, and accountability measures.
• Assignments and Checkpoints: Encourage actionable steps to ensure progress.

He emphasizes,

“Think of yourself as a coach and a facilitator. You're helping them learn from each other, not just from you.” ([05:25])

This structured approach ensures consistency and professionalism, enabling coaches to replicate success across multiple groups.

3. Pilot with Past Clients

Starting small is key. Omar recommends piloting the program with existing clients who have benefited from one-on-one coaching. Steps include:

• Invite 4-6 Trusted Clients: Select individuals who are likely to embrace the group format.
• Offer a Discounted Rate: For example, reduce the fee from $5,000 to $3,000 per month to reflect the group setting.
• Gather Feedback and Testimonials: Use this pilot round to refine the program and build social proof.

As Omar explains,

“This way you'll get testimonials, you'll be able to refine your format.” ([06:15])

This initial phase allows coaches to test their program, make necessary adjustments, and build confidence before scaling.

4. Set Expectations Early

Clarity is crucial to avoid misunderstandings. Omar advises coaches to communicate the nature of group coaching clearly from the outset. Key expectations to set include:

• Shared Airtime: Everyone has the opportunity to participate, preventing any single member from dominating the conversation.
• Peer Feedback: Members will receive and provide feedback, enriching the learning experience.
• Accountability Among Members: Beyond the coach's guidance, peers will help keep each other on track.

He emphasizes,

“Set the tone early to avoid any kind of confusion or unmet expectations.” ([06:45])

Clear expectations ensure that all participants understand the group dynamics and are prepared to engage constructively.

Scaling Your Group Coaching Program

Once the pilot group is successful, Omar discusses strategies for scaling:

Utilizing Technology for Larger Groups
With platforms like Zoom offering breakout rooms, coaches can manage larger groups effectively by subdividing participants into smaller, more interactive units. Omar suggests,

“Zoom has this ability to do breakout rooms. So you can split the 30 people into three rooms.” ([09:45])

Maintaining Value and Profitability
As the group size increases, the coach's time and effort remain constant while revenue grows. Omar notes,

“The amount of time and effort that you're putting into it doesn't change. But you're adding clients and you're adding revenue.” ([10:10])

This model enhances profitability without diminishing the quality of the coaching provided.

Focusing on Value Over Workload
Scaling a coaching business is about doing less of what's draining and more of what's valuable to clients. Group coaching inherently supports this by allowing coaches to maximize their impact with minimal additional effort.

Conclusion: Elevating Your Coaching Business

Transitioning from one-on-one to group coaching represents a significant step up for both the coach and the client. By following Omar Zenhom's structured approach—defining specific outcomes, organizing a repeatable curriculum, piloting with trusted clients, and setting clear expectations—coaches can create a scalable, impactful program that benefits a larger audience while maintaining personal connection and reducing burnout.

As Omar succinctly puts it,

“Group coaching allows you to reach more people with more energy and more freedom for yourself. It's not a step down. It's actually a step up for you and the client.” ([11:20])

Additional Resources

For those interested in further guidance, Omar encourages subscribing to his Three Things Newsletter, which offers weekly insights to improve mindset, take actionable steps towards goals, and acquire new skills. Visit 100mba.net to subscribe and access free resources.

Summary prepared based on the transcript provided for MBA2624 Q&A Wednesday: How Do I Transition From 1-on-1 Coaching to Group Coaching.