Are you a coach, looking for online networking tips? If so, you are not alone! In a recent survey, we found that 67% of coaches are getting their best leads from online networking. Here are a few strategies you may find helpful to increase your opportunities:
Know your Audience
Get clear on your ideal client. They are your audience, and if you want to reach them, you need to know them well enough to know where they are already participating online. Wherever that is, you want to be there!
Clear Profile Messaging
Remember, your ideal client is looking for you! Make sure that what they find on your social media profiles speak to them directly. Clear Messaging will enhance your opportunities. Take advantage of your profile “real estate” and use it to deepen your ideal client’s understanding of the challenges you help them solve and how to work with you. Links to schedule an appointment for a personal conversation are optimal.
Make sure your online profiles have clear messaging to attract your ideal client.
Get Busy
Be active on one or two social media platforms and be seen! Post consistently. Talk to your people. Share bits and pieces of your coaching philosophy or solutions you offer on your timeline. Engage with those who respond.
Join Online Groups
Nearly all social media platforms have groups and communities where you can find your ideal client. Make sure that they are relevant to your industry. Contribute generously, offering solutions and answering questions. This will increase your reputation as an expert and authority.
Be aware of group rules that are usually published upon joining. Many ask you not to post outside links or directly advertise your services. However, there are often ways to position yourself that will attract potential clients to you.
Attend Online Events
Find webinars, trainings and other events to attend where your ideal client may have an interest. By actively participating in the conversations during the event, you will be able to connect with potential clients. You may also discover possibly collaborators for future events of your own.
Can’t find a relevant event? Host one!
Attend online events. If you cannot find one, host one!
Offer Valuable Content
Further your reputation as an expert and thought leader by providing highly valuable content. Write blog posts and white papers that can be shared over and over. Memes, tips and other information of value to your ideal client will set you apart as a coach who is there to help. Short, video content is highly favored in today’s online environment.
Engage with Industry Leaders
Research other industry influencers and leaders in your area of expertise. Engage in their content by commenting and sharing their information. They are not your competition (yet)! You can rise as an influencer on their pages as long as you are respectful and don’t try to “poach” their clients. You will be noticed by those you are meant to serve and they will follow you.
Follow Up
“The fortune is in the follow up” is not just a trite phrase. It’s the truth! If you don’t follow up, someone else will! Make sure you have a simple follow up plan to deepen these new, online relationships. Over time, you will move them closer to a sale!
Expect Change
Because online leads and sales are growing, online networking tips are going to change over time. Platforms will come and go, but people interested in what you have to offer will grow. These strategies will get you started!
Check out The Coach Business Guide: The Path to Launch and Grow your Coaching Practice, Chapter 25 – Networking, for more information and help.
