After 6 years of being an online coach, I've learned a valuable lesson: steer clear of the unnecessary and stick to the basics. My experience hosting a podcast, YouTube series, and working with clients online has taught me that simplicity is key. You don't need a ton of fancy equipment to make magic happen!
So, after countless hours spent coaching individuals, groups, and creating online content, I've fine-tuned my essential toolkit. These 8 items are all I use on the daily, whether I'm coaching a team or creating courses and social media content. No need for any extra bells or whistles, just the bare necessities. So, without further ado, here they are!
1. Computer and Internet
Let's start with the obvious MVPs. My trusty Mac Book Pro has been my sidekick for 7 whole years, and it's still kicking butt. I lug it around with me wherever I go, and it's never let me down. I'm one of those people who squeezes every last bit of usefulness out of their equipment, and investing in quality gear is a no-brainer. As long as you have a stable internet connection, you're good to go. Just switch on the computer and voila! You're now an online coach.
2. Ring Light
I used to think ring lights were overrated, but boy, was I wrong! They're a game-changer when it comes to creating a visually pleasing experience for your clients. I mean, who doesn't want to look their best during an online session, right? Invest in one that comes with a phone holder and dimming options, and you'll be glowing in no time.
3. Camera
When starting out with online sessions, my trusty MacBook Pro camera did the job just fine. But as I ventured into creating online content and courses, I knew it was time to up my game. That's when I turned to the experts who recommended some awesome webcams that made all the difference. And guess what? They're compact enough!
4. Microphone
We've all been there, right? "Can you hear me now?" The frustration of poor audio quality can really put a damper on things. Investing in a compatible audio solution that's easy to use is a must. A good headset is a solid start, but if you're always on the road like me, an all-in-one solution with an adjustable arm can come in super handy. Just make sure to do your research to find the right fit for your needs.
5. You Can Book Me
Simplifying life is what it's all about. Sure, you could keep going back and forth with clients to find a suitable time, or you could streamline the process with You Can Book Me. This magical tool allows you to easily set up coaching times and sync with Zoom to send automated booking links. Genius!
6. Zoom
Ah, Zoom. The holy grail of online interaction. Although other tools like Microsoft Teams may seem like a good alternative, Zoom stands out. With its paid version, you can even record sessions, which is a valuable tool for VIP coaching programs.
7. Miro
Last but certainly not least, I have to give a shoutout to Miro. This collaboration tool has been a game-changer for documentation and team/client interaction. With endless whiteboards and colorful sticky notes, it's a fun and interactive way to document sessions and outcomes. Plus, there's a free version available to get started!
8. Canva
If you're like me and creativity is not a hobby but a way of life, Canva is a total game-changer! Whether you want to whip up a stunning website, jazz up your presentations, create some Instagram magic, or even pen a blog post, Canva is your one-stop-shop! This platform not only streamlines your life but also unleashes your inner artist, bringing a ton of fun and creativity to your day. Get ready to take on the world with Canva by your side!
I hope you enjoyed my essentials.
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Enjoy your online journey,
Yours Hedi
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