Books and Resources to Start Strong
Before you invest in equipment, you need a solid foundation in coaching methodology, business operations, and client psychology. These books provide the frameworks and knowledge you’ll reference throughout your coaching career, making them essential reading before or immediately after launch.
The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier
This book teaches the core skill of powerful questioning—the foundation of all executive coaching. You’ll learn seven essential questions that shift how you listen and guide clients toward their own solutions rather than giving advice. It’s practical, short, and directly applicable in your first client sessions.
Shop The Coaching Habit on Amazon →
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
Executive coaches work with leaders on vulnerability, courage, and authenticity in high-pressure environments. This book covers the research and practical tools you’ll use when helping clients navigate difficult conversations and build trust within their teams. It’s essential reading for understanding the emotional intelligence side of leadership development.
The Prosperous Coach by Rich Litvin and Kate Larsen
This book directly addresses the business side of coaching—pricing, client acquisition, positioning, and sustainable income. You’ll learn how to move beyond hourly billing, attract the right clients, and build a profitable practice. If you’re uncertain about the financial model, this clarifies realistic earnings and business decisions.
Shop The Prosperous Coach on Amazon →
Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler
Your clients will come to you stuck in difficult conversations—with boards, direct reports, peers, or investors. This book teaches the dialogue framework you’ll use to help them prepare, think through their approach, and navigate high-stakes communication. It’s referenced constantly in executive coaching work.
Shop Crucial Conversations on Amazon →
Equipment You Need
Executive coaching can be run lean compared to many service businesses. Your primary investment is in technology that enables professional sessions, protects client confidentiality, and helps you stay organized. Most coaches operate from a home office or coffee shop, so the equipment list is modest but must be reliable.
Computer and Video Conferencing Setup
- Laptop: A reliable machine for video calls, note-taking, and business administration. Most coaches use a MacBook Air or business-grade Windows laptop.
- External webcam: Built-in laptop cameras work, but a dedicated external webcam (1080p minimum) signals professionalism and provides better image quality during video sessions.
- Microphone: A USB condenser microphone or headset ensures clear audio during sessions. Poor audio reflects poorly on your credibility.
- Headphones: Quality over-ear headphones help you focus during client calls and reduce background noise.
- Ring light or lighting: If you’re on video calls in inconsistent lighting, a simple LED ring light improves how clients see you and feels more professional than shadowy backgrounds.
Shop external webcams on Amazon →
Shop USB condenser microphones on Amazon →
Internet and Backup Connectivity
- High-speed home internet: A minimum of 10 Mbps upload speed ensures stable video calls. If you work from multiple locations, reliable internet is non-negotiable.
- Mobile hotspot or backup connection: If your home internet goes down during a client session, you need a backup. A mobile hotspot plan from your phone carrier is inexpensive insurance.
Client Communication and Data Management
- Video conferencing platform: Zoom, Google Meet, or Cisco Webex. Most executive coaches choose Zoom for its reliability and call recording features.
- Calendar and scheduling tool: Calendly or similar software lets clients book time without email back-and-forth. Integrates with Zoom and your email.
- Client management software (CRM or coaching-specific platform): Tools like HubSpot (free tier), Notion, or Acuity Scheduling help you track coaching sessions, notes, progress, and follow-ups. Many coaches start with spreadsheets and upgrade later.
- Secure note-taking or documentation: OneNote, Notion, or dedicated coaching software to store session notes, client goals, and progress. Client confidentiality is critical—never store sensitive information in unsecured places.
Shop laptop stands on Amazon →
Office and Workspace
- Desk: A simple desk or table where you can sit upright for sessions. Standing desks are optional but many coaches prefer them for comfort during long days.
- Chair: A comfortable, professional-looking chair. You’ll sit in this during every client call, so invest in one that supports your back and looks presentable on video.
- Desk lamp: Adequate lighting so you can see client notes during sessions and so clients see your face clearly.
- Background or office divider: A simple backdrop or room divider creates a professional video background. Many coaches use bookshelves, plants, or a neutral wall.
Shop office chairs on Amazon →
Optional but Useful
- Notebook and pen: Some coaches prefer handwriting notes during sessions. It can feel less formal than typing and helps you stay present.
- Assessment tools or workbooks: Tools like the Hogan Assessments, CliftonStrengths, or the Enneagram can add depth to your coaching. These range from $20 to $500+ per assessment depending on licensing.
- Business phone line: A separate phone number (Google Voice is free) keeps client calls separate from personal calls and feels more professional.
What to Buy First vs Later
Start with the essentials and add tools as your business grows and you understand your workflow better.
- First: Reliable laptop, external microphone, webcam, headphones, and a video conferencing subscription (Zoom). Budget: $500–$1,200.
- First: Calendar scheduling software (Calendly free tier is sufficient to start) and a basic CRM or note-taking system (Notion or Google Sheets).
- First (concurrent with launch): Business liability insurance ($300–$600 annually). This isn’t equipment, but it’s non-negotiable before you take clients.
- After 5–10 clients: Upgrade to a dedicated coaching software platform if spreadsheets feel cumbersome. Examples include Acuity Scheduling, HoneyBook, or coaching-specific platforms ($50–$300 per month).
- After establishing your practice: Assessment tools aligned with your coaching specialty. Start with one or two and expand based on client feedback.
- Later: A home office renovation, standing desk, high-end lighting, or premium backgrounds—these enhance comfort and appearance but aren’t required to launch.
New vs Used Equipment
Buy new for items that directly impact client experience: microphone, webcam, and laptop. These are core to your professional presence, and used equipment in these categories often has degraded audio or video quality that you won’t notice until a client points it out. Budget about $300–$500 for quality versions of each.
Used equipment is reasonable for office furniture. A used desk chair from Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, if it’s clean and functional, saves 50% and works fine. The same applies to desks and lamps. Avoid used technology unless you’re buying from a reputable refurbisher with a warranty. A used laptop is risky unless you know its history; a refurbished machine from a manufacturer like Apple or Dell is safer than a private sale.
Where to Buy
- Amazon: Fast shipping, returns, and a wide range of tech and office equipment. Standard choice for most startup coaches.
- B&H Photo Video: Specialty retailer for cameras, microphones, and audio equipment. Knowledgeable staff and competitive pricing.
- Best Buy: Reliable for laptops, webcams, and audio equipment. Can test in-store and return easily.
- Sweetwater or Adorama: High-end audio and video equipment if you want professional-grade gear beyond standard USB microphones.
- Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist: Used furniture, desks, and chairs. Meet in person to inspect condition before buying.
- Office furniture retailers (IKEA, Wayfair, Office Depot): New desks and chairs at various price points and quality levels.
- Manufacturer direct (Apple, Dell, Lenovo): Laptops often have education discounts or refurbished options if you’re a first-time buyer.