Attract Clients Fearlessly.

I just finished reading The Prosperous Coach and there was some great advice that I think will apply to all of my clients who love to avoid showing up, marketing themselves, and “selling.”

Here are some steps for building relationships that will feel good to both parties (modified from the book):

1. Start with research. Look them up on LinkedIn, Google, Instagram, etc. Get to know what they do and have done so you can prepare lots of questions to ask and find commonalities.

2. Get into a relaxed vibe. Bring curiosity, humor and an attitude of serviceinto your intentions for connecting with this person. (It’s not all about you, babe!)

3. Simply connect. Ask them how they are, how they like their work, if they have hobbies, what they are looking forward to. Keep it casual and genuinely curious, especially in the first conversation.

4. Take your time. Don’t rush to move to the next step or pitch yourself. If they ask about you, tell them, tell them what you love about what you do. If you are in scarcity mode (I’m desperate for my next job/lover/bff!), they will sense it.

Take your time building the relationship and trust. You may be building this conversation and relationship over a long period of time before it’s right to ask directly for what you want, especially in business.

5. Ask. Once you feel like you have established good rapport with this person, ask for what you want, and be specific. i.e.:

I feel like my ________ would be a great fit for __________ because _________. I’d like to show you my portfolio, can I bring you a coffee next week, how’s Wednesday afternoon or Thursday morning?

I believe I could really be of value to your company by _______________. Can you tell me more about how to get on your preferred vendor’s list?

My services have helped people like you _______________ by __________ %. Can I tell you more on a call this week, how’s Wednesday at 10AM?

I think we get along famously, want to take a road trip with me down the PCH next month?

Being specific works to your advantage because it relieves the other person of having to make too many decisions. “Want to do a test shoot sometime?” vs. “I’m planning a test shoot in this date range at this location and here is my mood board, would you be interested in styling this for me?” 

You’re more likely to get a YES when you are specific and less open-ended…

“LMK if you need any help!” vs. “I can help you clean up imposter syndrome, feel confident and manage your anxiety so that you will be comfortable going anywhere and talking to anyone. Here’s my calendar link to schedule a powerful coaching conversation.”