Strategies That Aren't Working for Coaches and What to Do Instead
I want to address some common strategies that coaches are being taught, which are often ineffective and lead to burnout. Before diving in, I want to clarify that these strategies can work for some, but if they feel out of alignment for you, it's crucial to rethink them. Let’s dig in, shall we?
Episode highlights:
Red Flags in Coaching: Identifying strategies that feel wrong for you and distinguishing between discomfort and true misalignment.
Pricing Transparency: The debate over displaying prices on websites and the impact of hidden costs on client relationships.
Job Security: Why quitting your job for your coaching business might not be the best advice and the importance of multiple income streams.
Ineffective Strategies: The drawbacks of outdated methods like cold DMs, mandatory group participation, and constant live sessions.
Avoiding Burnout: Tailoring your business model to suit your personal preferences and sustainability.
Hiring Help: The balance between outsourcing tasks and understanding your business operations.
Financial Management: Keeping your business lean by cutting unnecessary expenses and avoiding expensive software.
Social Media Planning: The challenge of planning content far in advance and the importance of staying present and relevant with your audience.
It's important to distinguish between feeling out of alignment with a strategy and simply being uncomfortable trying something new. Often, you won't know if a strategy works for you until you try it. However, when numerous clients come to me sharing their frustrations with these methods, it becomes clear that many are not finding success.
Not Displaying Prices on Your Website
A common piece of advice is to avoid listing prices on your website to appear high-end and encourage potential clients to book a call. However, most clients find this approach frustrating and unproductive. They feel blindsided when hit with a high price tag during a call. Transparency is crucial; listing your prices helps set clear expectations and avoids awkward conversations.
Quitting Your Job for Your Coaching Business
Another widespread yet flawed recommendation is to quit your job to focus solely on your business. While going all-in can work for some, it's not practical for everyone, especially those with financial responsibilities. Maintaining a job while building your business can provide necessary stability and reduce stress.
Busy Work and Ineffective Strategies
Coaches are often advised to spend hours engaging in Facebook groups, posting links, and being "helpful." Many find this strategy time-consuming and unfruitful. It's essential to evaluate whether these activities bring you joy and tangible results. If not, it might be time to rethink your approach.
Overpriced Programs and Misleading Promises
There's a trend of high-ticket programs that overpromise and underdeliver. Clients often feel let down after investing significant amounts without seeing results. It's important to seek out programs that offer quick wins and tangible benefits without breaking the bank.
Outdated Marketing Tactics
Webinars and discovery calls were once effective but have become less impactful as audiences become savvier. If these methods no longer work for you or you find them draining, consider exploring other marketing techniques that align better with your style and audience.
The Problem with Cold DMs
Cold DMs are often seen as intrusive and disingenuous. They rarely lead to meaningful connections or sales and can damage your reputation. Instead, focus on building genuine relationships through more personalized and thoughtful interactions.
Hiring and Managing Assistants
Hiring virtual assistants can be beneficial, but it's crucial to understand and manage the tasks you're outsourcing. Many coaches end up paying more to their team than they earn themselves. Ensure you have a solid grasp of your business operations before delegating tasks.
Lean Business Practices
Running a lean business can save you significant money. Avoid unnecessary subscriptions and expensive software. Opt for tools with one-time payments or annual plans to minimize monthly expenses. Regularly review your expenses and cut out what you don't need.
Social Media Over-Planning
While some advocate for planning a month's worth of social media content in one day, this approach can feel overwhelming and disconnected. Focus on creating content that feels relevant and genuine in the moment. Planning a few days ahead is often more manageable and allows you to stay present.
Ultimately, your business should reflect your values and work style. Don't feel pressured to follow strategies that don't resonate with you. Trust your instincts, make necessary adjustments, and find what works best for you. If you need guidance, don't hesitate to reach out and ask for help. Your success and well-being are paramount.