7 Ways to Spot a Fraud in The Coaching Industry

Let’s face it, the online coaching industry is booming, and with that boom comes a lot of noise... and a few too many smoke-and-mirror acts. From picture perfect Instagram feeds to big promises of "overnight success," it's easy to get swept up. But behind the flash, not everyone is what they seem.

So how do you spot a coaching industry fraud? Here are a 7 red flags to keep your eye on:

1. Big Promises, Vague Details

"I made 6 figures in 30 days and so can you!" Sound familiar? Fraudulent coaches lead with massive income claims and provide almost zero context. If their big promise is followed by, "Create a video," "Download my templates," or "Take my course," with no real strategy behind it, be cautious. You want details—the how, the why, the what-if-this-doesn’t-work plan.

If they can’t clearly explain how they achieved those results and how their method translates to your business? That’s a red flag.

2. No Real Business Foundation

They claim they can help you scale, but can’t explain the basics of building a strong foundation. Real growth takes more than mindset and marketing, it requires structure, sustainability, and a clear strategy. Listen for the how. Do they talk about backend systems, client experience, financial planning, or team support? If their advice is all flash and no framework?

3. Pressure Sales Tactics

"You have 24 hours to decide or the price doubles!" Frauds thrive on urgency, guilt, and FOMO. They’ll claim the offer is "expiring" to manipulate your timeline and decision-making. Some even discourage you from talking it over with your partner or sleeping on it because they know that once you pause, the spell might break. A quality coach will give you space to make an empowered decision—not bully you into buying.

4. Lack of Client Retention

If they’re constantly focused on bringing in new people but never talk about repeat clients, ask why. Are they sharing long-term wins or just one-time sales? Are former clients engaging with them, shouting them out, or coming back for more? A sustainable coaching business should have raving, returning clients and that kind of loyalty is hard to fake.

5. They’re Not Doing What They Teach

They preach ease and balance but are on 10 calls a day, burning out their team, and constantly reinventing their offer. This kind of misalignment usually shows up in how they talk about their schedule, how often they change direction, and how their team (if they have one) shows up publicly. If their business doesn’t reflect the values they claim to live by, it’s worth asking questions.

6. You Can’t Find Real Testimonials

Stock photos, first names only, and no verifiable links? Be cautious. Look for client reviews that show depth not just hype. Tagged posts, detailed case studies, and honest feedback from real clients will tell you far more than a polished quote or vague praise ever could.

7. Their Energy Feels Off

Trust your gut. Sometimes the red flag isn’t in their words—it’s in their energy. If something feels off, it probably is.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Coach

Before you invest, get curious. Here are some questions to ask any coach you're considering:

• What kind of businesses have you worked with and what were the results?

• How do you tailor your approach to different industries or business models?

• What support is actually included in your program?

• How do you help clients build sustainable systems?

• Can I speak to a past client?

• How do you measure success?

• What happens if I don’t get the results I expected?

  
  

A coach that cares about YOU and not just another pay check will welcome these questions and answer them with clarity and confidence.

What to Look For

• Coaches who ask more questions than they answer in a sales call.

• Clear strategies grounded in actual business foundations.

• Transparency about their journey the wins and the lessons.

• A business model that aligns with how you want to build.

• Proof of real client transformation that isn't just a revenue flex.

  
  

Not everyone is a fraud

Not all coaches are frauds. In fact, many are deeply passionate, skilled, and truly invested in your success. But in an industry built on aspiration, it’s important to pause and do your homework.

Because working with the right coach can be transformative. And working with the wrong one? Well, it can cost you time, money, and confidence.

Choose wisely. Your business deserves the real deal.

Looking to work with someone who walks the talk?

I'm not a coach—I'm a strategic partner. My work is about building solid foundations, refining operations, and helping entrepreneurs create sustainable, scalable businesses that actually feel good to run. Some might say I’m hating on the coaching industry, but that’s not the case at all. I’m just a woman who’s tired of watching entrepreneurs fall victim to overhyped promises and underdelivered results.

Learn how we approach strategy, sustainability, and operational support through our ELEVATE Programs.

Download the ELEVATE Brochure today using this link.

Want to know more about my personal journey and why integrity matters so much to me? Read the full story here.