That is a great question. I'll answer the second part first.
I have found that it is really important to make sure you are targeting people that can afford life and business coaching.
One of the first things I had to adjust was giving away a session completely free. I do offer a sample session although it is only free if the client purchases another session.
In that same vain I do want to give an incentive for people to try coaching so they can see for themselves how beneficial life and business coaching really is.
That fee is half of what I charge for one session. If they don't continue because they can't afford it, if they do continue it is free.
As you know a person can get more from one session of life/business coaching from a great coach then they would get from months of a class or going to a very expensive seminar etc.
Second part of the answer: Closing once you are at the end of the session. If you have pre-closed them Evelyn this is much easier, because you are simply going on to scheduling the next appointment. I know that sounds simple but it is that simple.
What I mean by pre-close, the people you are marketing to are in your niche. My niche is marketing and business. When I stay in that area 99% of the people I talk to become a client because we together we are a great fit.
When I close a session with a first time client I ask them what they took away from the session. This in its self is a close because when they realize all they have taken away in only 50 or so minutes the value starts to resonate right then and there.
After I acknowledge what their progress is I go right into scheduling our next appointment.
If and I say (if) that client was a great fit for coaching. Sometimes I can clearly feel a person is not ready. That coaching at this time would not benefit them.
I tell them I feel that way and I always give suggestions on what they may benefit from. I have never had a sample session where the client didn't take away at least few valuable tools, even if that meant guiding them to an alternative method for help, while showing them other options that they usually were not aware of.
Each situation is unique. If your session was a success, after acknowledging the success and highlighting what they took away ask them if they want their follow up session in one week or two? Just like that.
They should already know how much you charge before the first session. If they can't afford it then they either don't sample or they pay your sample session price and it is a win win. You get paid for your time and they get the value of your expertise and guidance.
Thanks for the great question. I wish for you all the success the universe has to offer.
