Retainer Client

Also called: Ongoing Client, Monthly Client, Recurring Client

Definition

A retainer client is a coaching client who pays a recurring fee, usually monthly, for ongoing access to your coaching services. Unlike a one-time package with a set end date, a retainer relationship continues indefinitely until one party decides to stop. Retainer arrangements typically include a set number of sessions per month, plus between-session support like email or messaging access.

Why it matters for coaches

Retainer clients are the foundation of a predictable coaching income. Every new month starts with revenue already booked. If you have five retainer clients paying $1,000/month, you open each month at $5,000 before you do any marketing. That stability changes everything about how you run your business. You spend less time chasing new clients and more time doing the work you love. Retainers also tend to produce the strongest client relationships because the ongoing nature of the work allows for deeper progress.

Example

Generic: “Some of my clients keep working with me after their package ends.”

Retainer-defined: “After completing my initial 3-month package, 60% of clients move to a $1,200/month retainer that includes two sessions and unlimited Voxer access. My average retainer client stays for 8 months. That’s $9,600 in lifetime value per client beyond the initial engagement.”

Related

• How do I keep coaching clients long-term?
• What is Client Lifetime Value (CLV)?
• What is a Coaching Package?
• The Referral Engine Framework

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