← Back to Blog
guidescomparisongetting-started

Link in Bio vs Website for Coaches: Which Do You Actually Need First?

Setalink TeamApril 3, 2026

When you're starting a coaching business, everyone tells you that you need a website. But websites take weeks to build, cost hundreds of dollars, and require ongoing maintenance. Meanwhile, your Instagram bio needs something to link to *today*.

This is where the link-in-bio vs website question gets real.

What a Link in Bio Actually Does

A link-in-bio page is a single mobile-optimized page that lives at one URL — usually something like setalink.com/yourname. It houses all your important links in one place:

  • Your booking link
  • Your digital products or courses
  • Your email opt-in
  • Your social profiles
  • Your latest YouTube video or podcast
  • When someone hits that link from your Instagram or TikTok bio, they see a clean page with everything they need — no navigation, no distractions, just the things you want them to do.

    What a Website Actually Does

    A website is your full online presence — multiple pages, SEO capability, long-form content, and the ability to rank on Google for the services you offer. It signals legitimacy to corporate clients, shows up in search results, and gives you a home base that isn't owned by Instagram.

    The Honest Answer for Coaches Just Starting Out

    Start with a link-in-bio page. Here's why:

    Speed matters more than perfection. You can have a professional-looking Setalink page live in 20 minutes. A website takes weeks.

    Social media traffic doesn't need a full site. People clicking from Instagram aren't looking for a 10-page website — they want to book or buy in 30 seconds.

    Most coaches never need a traditional website. If your clients come from Instagram, TikTok, or referrals, a great link-in-bio page with booking and payment handles everything.

    When You Should Build a Website Instead

    Build a website when:

  • You want to rank on Google for terms like "life coach in [your city]"
  • You're targeting corporate clients who expect a full web presence
  • You want to publish long-form content or a blog
  • You have courses or a membership that needs a more complex sales page
  • The Smart Move: Both (Eventually)

    The best setup is a link-in-bio page *now* that captures all your social traffic, plus a simple website that handles SEO and legitimacy *later*. They serve different audiences.

    Setalink gives you the first half — live in minutes, no tech skills needed.

    Ready to grow your fitness coaching business?

    Start free