While word of mouth has been my go-to method for many years, I’ve also learned the importance of using pre-sales and prospecting techniques, especially on platforms like LinkedIn.
Initially, I was hesitant to dive into pre-sales because I’m a relational person. I enjoy making connections and getting to know people, and I didn’t want to come across as salesy. However, a colleague helped me realized that there are many people out there who could benefit from my coaching and training services but simply don’t know about them. This realization pushed me to explore new ways to reach potential clients.
LinkedIn has become a valuable tool in this regard. It’s not just about connecting with people; it’s about doing your homework before reaching out. I look at who my existing connections are linked with and read their bios to see if they might be interested in coaching. For example, if someone shares a lot on LinkedIn about leadership development or making a positive impact, they could be an ideal candidate for my services.
This approach isn’t a true cold call because I take the time to learn about the person before making contact. It’s more of a pre-sales strategy where I prepare myself before initiating a conversation. This way, I can tailor my message to their interests and needs, making the interaction more meaningful.
I’ve also started to revamp my company’s LinkedIn page to appeal more to my target audience, by highlighting my experience and the value I can bring to organizations. A well-crafted LinkedIn business page—and personal profile—can make a significant difference when reaching out to potential clients.
Using LinkedIn for pre-sales and prospecting can be an effective way to attract new coaching clients. It requires a bit of research and preparation, but it allows you to connect with people who might not have heard about your services otherwise. By combining word-of-mouth with these proactive techniques, you can create a robust strategy for growing your coaching business.
Getting New Clients by Word of Mouth