Your Questions Answered: Joining ActionCOACH

Everything you need to know about becoming part of the world’s leading business coaching team.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. So, who is ActionCOACH and how long has the company been helping business people grow?

ActionCOACH is the world’s largest business coaching franchise, founded in 1993 by Brad Sugars. With a presence in over 80 countries, ActionCOACH has spent more than three decades helping business owners grow their companies, increase profitability, and achieve more personal freedom.

ActionCOACH is built on a foundation of tested systems and methodologies that help entrepreneurs reach their full potential.

Want to see if business coaching is the right fit for you? Speak with an advisor to learn more.

2. And, what is business coaching?

Business coaching is the process of helping business owners and leaders improve their performance by using proven strategies, accountability systems, and expert support.

It’s not consulting or mentoring—coaches don’t do the work for clients; instead, they empower clients to lead their own success.

ActionCOACH offers one-to-one coaching, group coaching, and education-based programs to help clients scale faster and more efficiently.

Learn more about business coaching and how our coaches help clients reach their goals. 

3. What will I do and what will I sell as an ActionCOACH?

As an ActionCOACH franchise partner, you’ll work with business owners to help them grow through structured coaching programs. You’ll sell services such as one-to-one coaching, group coaching, planning days, educational workshops, and a 12-week business education program.

Your mission is to guide entrepreneurs to higher profitability, stronger teams, and a business that works without them.

Ready to lead others to success? Speak with an advisor today.

4. What background or qualifications do I need to join ActionCOACH?

You don’t need a formal business degree to join ActionCOACH, but a solid background in business, leadership, or entrepreneurship is helpful.

What matters most is your passion for helping others and your willingness to follow a proven system. Many franchise partners come from corporate leadership, small business ownership, or professional services backgrounds.

Interested in becoming a business coach? Speak to one of our advisors to learn more about franchising in your area. 

5. Will I do it all myself or should I recruit and build a team?

While you can start solo, ActionCOACH encourages you to build a firm—a team of coaches and support staff who help grow your territory and impact.

With team members in roles like marketing, coaching, and administration, you can scale your business faster and deliver more value to clients.

 

6. Why should I buy a franchise and not do it myself?

The initial investment for an ActionCOACH franchise varies by region and model, but it’s significantly lower than many traditional franchises.

There are also ongoing royalties and marketing contributions, which are reinvested into brand growth and support.

These fees give you access to global resources, systems, and a recognized name.

Speak with an advisor today and find out what it takes to get started. 

7. How much is a franchise and what are the ongoing fees?

In addition to the franchise fee, you’ll need working capital for business operations, marketing, and potential team hires.

Start-up costs can be tailored based on whether you launch solo or as a firm, and you’ll receive guidance on budgeting during the onboarding process.

Curious about your investment? Speak with an advisor today to learn more. 

8. How much start-up capital will I need?

ActionCOACH provides comprehensive initial training that covers coaching methodology, marketing, sales, and business systems.

This is followed by ongoing training, including regular webinars, conferences, and personalized support. You’ll always have access to the latest tools and best practices.

9. What upfront training will I get and what about the ongoing training?

ActionCOACH provides comprehensive initial training that covers coaching methodology, marketing, sales, and business systems.

This is followed by ongoing training, including regular webinars, conferences, and personalized support. You’ll always have access to the latest tools and best practices.

10. What is startup support and what does the ongoing support look like?

Startup support comes primarily from your local Master Franchise partner, who helps with the business launch and initial operations.

Once the business is up and running, you'll benefit from both local and global support systems. This includes knowledge and education through technology platforms that allow you to connect with coaches worldwide.

There are quarterly planning sessions for all coaches, plus ongoing assistance from local partners and other franchisees who generously share their experiences to support your growth.

11. Who is my target market? What do my ideal clients look like?

Your ideal clients are business owners, executives, and salespeople looking to grow and improve their results.

Most clients are small to mid-sized business owners, typically with 1 to 10 employees and generating between $250,000 to $5 million in revenue.

These businesses span various industries, including medical, trades, retail, IT, and manufacturing. They come to you seeking coaching and strategies to enhance their business skills and build better, more profitable enterprises.

12. How will I get leads? What does marketing look like in my business?

Marketing is broken down into three levels: local, regional, and global. On a local level, you focus primarily on lead generation (80%) with some branding (20%).

At the regional level, it’s a 50/50 split between lead generation and branding, while at the global level, branding takes precedence.

You'll engage in direct, social, and digital marketing strategies, including referrals, networking, and social media, with full training provided.

Additionally, you have access to approved agencies for lead generation, ensuring you have the right tools for success.

13. How will I make sales? How will I sell people on coaching?

Sales are approached through a coaching process, not a hard sell. Instead of pushing for a sale, you educate and coach potential clients into making a decision.

This approach builds long-term relationships with clients. The onboarding process consists of a 13-step procedure with multiple touch points and scripts, and there’s in-depth training for you and your team.

This coaching-style sales process helps clients make informed decisions, increasing customer satisfaction and retention.

14. What will a normal day or week or month look like for me?

Your workweek will typically involve coaching clients from Tuesday to Thursday, with Mondays reserved for preparation, planning, and marketing. In the beginning, you might spend more time on sales and marketing, but over time, coaching becomes the primary focus.

Each coaching session usually lasts around an hour, and you'll work through a structured coaching program, reviewing past actions and planning for future growth. The rhythm of your week revolves around this cycle of coaching and business development.

15. How will I get results with clients?

Results come through a proven six-step framework designed to help businesses become commercial, profitable enterprises. This methodology covers areas such as marketing, sales, and business mastery, with each stage broken down into actionable strategies.

The process emphasizes education, accountability, and community, ensuring clients stay engaged and motivated. By consistently applying these strategies, clients experience tangible business improvements while also developing their personal skills as business leaders.

16. What events or training program will I offer to the market?

As a coach, you'll offer powerful group and one-to-one coaching programs, 12-week business education courses, and local planning events that help business owners grow. These proven frameworks attract leads, build your reputation, and deliver real results.

Want to learn more? Visit this article

17. How will I work together with the team of franchise partners?

As a coach, you’ll work closely with a global team of franchise partners by sharing best practices, attending regular training, and collaborating through powerful events like the annual BizX Conference.

These connections provide fresh strategies, mentorship, and a supportive community to help you grow your firm and deliver consistent client results.

Want to learn more? Visit this article

18. Why is it a territory based and what is my territory?

ActionCOACH uses a territory-based model to ensure each coach can focus on serving a specific geographic area with minimal competition and maximum support.

Your territory is an asset—it gives you exclusive rights to market and deliver coaching services within that region, helping you build a strong local presence while tapping into global systems.

Want to learn more? Visit this article

19. Is there a technology platform I get to use?

 

Yes, as a franchise partner, you’ll have access to ActionCOACH's robust technology platform. This includes tools for managing client relationships, tracking coaching progress, and accessing resources like training materials, webinars, and marketing assets.

The platform is designed to streamline your operations and provide you with everything you need to scale and grow your business effectively.

To learn more, visit this article.

20. How will I do social media and is there a website that I get?

As a franchise partner, you will have access to pre-designed, customizable marketing assets for social media and a dedicated website. This includes templates for posts, campaigns, and branding that align with ActionCOACH's global messaging.

You'll be able to tailor these materials to suit your local market while benefiting from the established brand recognition of ActionCOACH. The website will be set up for you, complete with key information about your services, a blog, testimonials, and a contact page to attract potential clients.

To learn more, visit this article.

21. Will you help me hire and train my team?

 

Yes, as a franchise partner, you'll receive support in hiring and training your team. ActionCOACH provides comprehensive resources to help you recruit the right individuals for roles in coaching, administration, and marketing.

You'll also have access to ongoing training programs, including leadership development and best practices in coaching and customer service. Additionally, you will be guided on how to create a strong company culture and develop your team to deliver the highest quality services to clients.

To learn more, visit this article.

22. What contracts will I have to sign?

As a franchise partner, you'll be required to sign several key contracts. These typically include a Franchise Agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of your partnership with ActionCOACH, including franchise fees, territory rights, and operational guidelines.

You will also sign confidentiality and non-compete agreements to protect the brand and proprietary systems. Additionally, there may be contracts related to the use of technology platforms, marketing materials, and any intellectual property.

To learn more, visit this article.

23. Is this proven? Are there any guarantees?

Yes, ActionCOACH's business model is proven, with over 30 years of experience and a global network of successful franchise partners. The system has been tested and refined across different markets and industries, offering a solid foundation for those who follow the established processes.

While there are no guarantees in business, the structured support, training, and tools ActionCOACH provides significantly increase the likelihood of success for its franchise partners.

To learn more, visit this article.

24. What are the main reasons ActionCOACH is successful?

ActionCOACH's success is built on a proven business model, results-driven coaching, and a strong global network. Its structured training, diverse coaching programs, and focus on client growth ensure consistent value. The supportive community and commitment to innovation contribute to its continued success.

To learn more, visit this article.

25. What will make me a successful franchise partner at ActionCOACH?

To be a successful franchise partner at ActionCOACH, you'll need a strong passion for business coaching, a commitment to helping others succeed, and a willingness to follow the proven system in place. Embrace the training, utilize the support network, and focus on building relationships with clients. Consistently applying ActionCOACH's strategies and maintaining a growth mindset will help you achieve long-term success.

To learn more, visit this article.

26. Can I work from a home office, or do I need a physical location?

As an ActionCOACH franchise partner, you can work from a home office, especially in the early stages of your business. While you don’t necessarily need a physical location, having access to meeting spaces for client interactions and team collaboration can be beneficial as you grow your business.

To learn more, visit this article.

27. Can I sell my franchise one day if I choose to?

 

Yes, you can sell your ActionCOACH franchise in the future if you choose to. The franchise model allows for ownership transfer, and there is a structured process in place to ensure a smooth transition for both you and the new owner.

To learn more, visit this article.

28. How do I apply and what are the criteria that I need to know about to be awarded a franchise?

To apply for an ActionCOACH franchise, start with a discovery call to learn about the franchise model, followed by a model review call and DISC assessment. You'll then review franchise documents and engage with current franchisees before attending Discovery Day to meet the team and finalize your decision. Financially, the Partner Franchise requires an investment of around $60,000, which includes franchise and training fees.

For a detailed breakdown of the entire process, visit this article.


Ready to take the next step? Speak with an advisor today!