STP 26 | Tips for adding a Courses, Coaching, and Consulting Services
Jun 12, 2023
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where people keep asking for your advice on a particular topic? Maybe you excel at organizing your office, hiring employees, or filling your therapist schedule with clients. If so, you might have considered adding a professional consulting service to your practice. In this episode, James Marland and David Hall discuss the process of adding a professional consulting service to your practice. James shares that many people come to him with expertise in a specific area, and others constantly ask them for advice. David, on the other hand, has been offering consulting services for years. They delve into how they got started, the importance of identifying your niche, and the pros and cons of scaling your business through consulting.
Getting Started: Discovering Your Expertise
David started offering consulting services for free after people noticed his skills and knowledge in certain areas. He would often have coffee chats with colleagues and provide advice on topics like marketing and organizing an office. As he realized the value of his knowledge base, he began creating trainings and courses. Eventually, he started offering paid consulting when people requested personalized assistance. However, David learned the importance of pricing his services appropriately and being selective with clients who have already taken his courses.
When considering adding consulting to your practice, it's crucial to identify your area of expertise. As David Hall shares, "What do you know that will be helpful?" Reflect on your skills, knowledge base, and what people trust you in. Avoid being too general in your pitch, as it won't reach your preferred client. Narrow down your offering to a specific skill set or talent stack that you can teach or help others improve upon.
Pricing your consulting services
Determining the price for your consulting services can be a challenging task. David Hall highlights the importance of understanding your target audience and their ability to pay. Consider your audience's demographic, experience level, and the transformation you can offer them. Tailor your pricing accordingly to ensure it's reasonable and attractive to your ideal clients.
Connecting with your audience
Identifying Your Expertise and Audience When considering consulting, it's crucial to narrow down your area of expertise and define your target audience. David emphasizes that a vague and generic pitch won't attract the right clients. Instead, focus on what you have credibility in and what will be helpful to your audience. Consulting should be based on a specific skill or knowledge base that provides value to people. If you don't have a compelling offer, you may not be ready for consulting yet.
After defining your consulting niche, it's crucial to connect with your target audience. Identify where and how they seek information or professional guidance. Utilize platforms like social media, professional networks, and industry events to establish your presence and build trust. By understanding your audience's needs and effectively reaching them, you increase your chances of success.
Pros and Cons of Adding Consulting to Your Practice
Consulting offers numerous benefits, as well as a different emotional energy compared to therapy. David Hall highlights two significant advantages: the ability to charge higher rates and the reduced emotional strain. Consulting allows you to leverage your expertise and charge accordingly, providing potential for higher income. Moreover, the emotional energy required for consulting is often less intense than that of therapy, making it a refreshing addition to your practice.
Charging higher rates for Your Consulting Service
Depending on your knowledge base and target audience, you can charge significantly more for consulting services compared to therapy. By assessing the transformation you offer and understanding your client's desired outcomes, you can determine a pricing structure that reflects the value you provide. This flexibility in pricing allows you to maximize your earning potential.
Reduced emotional strain
Unlike therapy, consulting typically involves working with clients who are seeking guidance and expertise rather than addressing emotional distress. This distinction can alleviate the emotional strain associated with therapy. However, it's essential to remember that each client interaction may still require empathy and understanding, even if the focus is on professional development.
Actionable Tips for Starting a Consulting Service
To successfully launch your consulting service, keep the following tips in mind:
- Identify your area of expertise: Determine what you're knowledgeable and passionate about and what people often seek your advice on.
- Define your target audience: Understand who your ideal clients are and how you can help them. Tailor your services to meet their specific needs.
- Develop a compelling offer: Create a unique value proposition that sets you apart from other consultants in your field. Clearly communicate the benefits clients can expect from working with you.
- Price your services strategically: Consider the transformation you provide and the time investment required to achieve it. Set your prices accordingly, taking into account your target audience's ability to pay.
- Market yourself effectively: Utilize various marketing channels to reach your target audience. Develop a strong online presence through social media, content creation, and networking within your industry.
- Provide exceptional service: Deliver value beyond your clients' expectations. Maintain professionalism, communicate effectively, and continually improve your expertise to stay ahead in your consulting field.
Links and Resources
- Add a Virtual Assistant to Your Practice Online Course
- Kajabi AI Creator Hub: Free AI Tools Built For Creators
- Atomic Habits by James Clear
- Teachable
- Online Course Show
- The Beginner's Guide for Creating Knowledge Income
- Profitable Mental Health Trainings Course
- PsychMaven - Find more resources here
- Builder Type Assessment - grow without the grind
- Save 10 hours a week on administration tasks, progress notes, treatment plans, and more - Online Course
- Validate my Course Topic in 4-Steps Worksheet
- Add a Virtual Assistant to Your Practice Online Cours
Course Creation Planning Worksheet Download
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