types of online programs to help your business

Want More Flexibility & Freedom: The 4 Types Of Online Programs & How To Know Which One Is Best For You

4 mins to read.

When I talk about online program creation with coaches and practitioners, I am inevitably met with a lot of questions and even outright objections about how an online program could possibly work for them. I realized some time ago there is a “set” idea about what an online program is and how it can be executed that is not entirely accurate.

The whole point of creating an online program is to create flexibility and freedom for the coach and greater results for the client. The objections I typically hear center around the structuring of the program and how the practitioner or coach can best support their clients while also fulfilling any regulatory or certification requirements required by their board.

You might be surprised to learn that there are four distinct ways you can structure your program to fit your own unique needs and the needs of your clients. Let’s explore each one in detail, helping you discover which approach resonates with your coaching style, and your client’s preferences.

Are you a coach? Want to find the best software for coaches out there? Be sure to check our free guide on how to find the best apps for coaches.


Option #1: High Touch: Online Program With one-to-one Support

online program one on one

Imagine crafting an immersive coaching experience that prioritizes personalized attention and dedicated guidance. This is precisely what the High Touch Online Program with one-to-one Support offers. In this approach, your clients receive access to your carefully curated online program, along with community engagement, accountability tools, and, most importantly, one-on-one support sessions.

These private sessions allow you to tailor your guidance to each client’s specific needs, address their questions, and provide the motivation they need to achieve their goals. By combining your online program material, individualized attention with community support and accountability, you create an environment that maximizes the chances of success for each client.


Option #2: Community Focused: Online Program With Coaching

online program community focused

If you’re someone who thrives in group dynamics and values the power of community, the Community-Focused Online Program with Coaching might be your calling. This option centers around the idea of collaborative learning, where clients not only access your online program material but also engage with a supportive community and accountability structures.

This approach also includes weekly live group coaching sessions where you address questions, facilitate discussions, and guide clients through creating change. The communal learning environment allows clients to interact, share insights, and benefit from a diverse range of perspectives. It’s a fantastic option for those who want to foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual growth among their clients.


Option #3: The Fusion Method: Online Program With one-to-one Support & Coaching

Fusion Method Online Program

For those seeking a holistic approach that blends individualized guidance with the power of group learning, the Fusion Method Online Program with one-to-one Support & Coaching is the perfect fit. This option is particularly well-suited for licensed or regulated professionals who want to offer comprehensive support while leveraging the strength of both personalized and communal interactions.

With the Fusion Method, clients gain access to your online program modules, community engagement, accountability tools, one-to-one check-in sessions (that occur less frequently than the high-touch model), and weekly group coaching calls. This fusion of support ensures that clients receive tailored guidance while also benefiting from shared experiences and learning within the group. It’s an ideal way to provide a well-rounded, transformative coaching experience while also meeting any requirements of your regulatory or certifying board.

Option #4: Self-Guided: Online Program Without Contact

Self-Guided Online Program without Contact

Now, let’s explore an option that offers a different kind of flexibility and accessibility: the Self-Guided Online Program without Contact. This approach caters to clients who prefer a more independent learning experience or may have specific budget constraints. While it doesn’t include direct interactions like coaching calls, it’s a powerful way to make your online program available to a wider audience.

With this option, clients gain access to your online program through a content hub, allowing them to progress through the program at their own pace. While community engagement and direct coaching support are absent, they still benefit from your expertise and guidance through the program materials. This option is particularly valuable for reaching a broader audience and offering a more budget-friendly solution.

Whether you prefer the high-touch point of one-on-one support, the vibrancy of a coaching community, the fusion of individualized and group interactions, or the accessibility of self-guided learning, you will be shaping the transformative journey for your clients. By tailoring your online program to meet their needs, you’ll be better equipped to guide them toward their goals and foster lasting change.

As you embark on your online coaching journey, it’s important to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The key is to align your chosen approach with your coaching style, your clients’ preferences, and your long-term personal and professional goals.

Selecting the right online program type for your coaching practice is a pivotal decision that influences your coaching style, client interactions, and business growth. Take the time to consider your strengths, preferences, and the needs of your target audience. 

Remember as you grow and evolve in your coaching journey, you can choose to modify and adapt your support options which offers continued flexibility both now and into the future.