A few weeks ago in the states it was National Earth Day and I thought to myself no better day than on this day to repot my houseplants.

You see I knew the plants outgrown the pots they were planted and were becoming root bound, not a pretty sight when I lifted them out of their containers. I knew I had to make room for them and quick! So I went to the nursery and bought a few ceramic pots and a big bag of organic soil.

I'm not complaining because this is one of my favorite tasks, it's so satisfying to take a cramped plant and move them into a more spacious pot with fresh soil. I actually learned how from watching Martha Stewart!

Do you like to garden? If so are you an indoor gardener or outside?

99.5% of the time the answer is yes.

Whether I am speaking to a Practitioner who is just starting out or one that has been in Practice for many years, whenever I asked the question "Do you want more clients?" the answer usually is a resounding YES!

But when I asked this second question, Practitioners often look completely baffled. I then asked them:

'Are you making room for new clients?"

For those that have an office space where these the clients they think I'm encouraging them to open a second (or third or fourth) treatment or session room. And for those that serve their clients via the telephone they tell me, "Oh,I don't need a separate room, I only offer telephone sessions."

But I'm not talking here about physical office space but rather are you mentally preparing yourself for new clients.

Many Practitioners are doing the exact opposite of mentally preparing for a for a fuller schedule of clients.  Some are complaining of the lack of clients. Others won't show up in her office unless client are scheduled. Or in the case of a single Practitioner who wants to bring on another Holistic Practitioner into their office finds themselves going back and forth on that decision. They will tell me I'll wait until I have far too many clients, then bring on another Practitioner."

This is when I will share one of my favorite mottos:

Make decisions now based on how you want your Practice to be.

In other words it's the small steps and mental shifts that are needed now so to make room for new clients to come. Are you wondering how you do this?

Let me share some of my favorite actions you can take right now to make more room for both new clients and returning clients.

Block out chunks of time in your daytimer or planner for new clients. For example, start on Monday or the beginning of the month ( that is what I do) and start circling timeslots. Write down the initials NC which stands for new clients. Not only are you activating law of attraction by this simple action, you are also telling your conscious and subconscious mind you're expecting new clients to call.

Get your paperwork in order. Many times I see that this is one of the main areas that is neglected. You don't have to have reams of paperwork but there are essential forms to have in place, such as an intake form , a disclaimer and a few of your policies such as a cancellation policy. If you are unsure of the paperwork to how please check out my class POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND FORMS.

Create file folders. if you have an online practice you can create file folders on your computer and if you have a physical office go to the office supply store and buy a big box of file folders for new clients. I personally have both, I love buying a box of colored file folders and putting them in my desk drawer. Again this is all about preparing ourselves and our office for clients.

Are you constantly complaining to yourself and others that you don't have enough clients? There's nothing wrong with sharing frustration or disappointment to a colleague. I encourage private clients of mine and the members of the Practice Building Success Circle to have a "Practice Building Partner" someone they could share their successes and areas they wish to improve. Hold each other accountable so you start working on action steps and inspire each other in attracting more clients.

Preparing your mind and heart for new clients takes courage. Most likely you might hear a little voice that's doubting simple steps can work.

I encourage you to put aside your skepticism and take one or two steps mentioned above and allow yourself to be excited. You'll feel good knowing that you are making room for new clients. And like a client of mine recently told me, "Wow this really works!"

I'd love to know which of these  seem the most challenging for you to do right now? Feel free to let me know above- thanks!

(c) 2010 AnaMaria Herrera

About the author: AnaMaria Herrera, Online Marketer and Director of Practice Building Institute publishes 'Practice Building Success' teaching Holistic Practitioners how to get clients and build their practice. For a f*ree audio and resources go to: http://www.PracticeBuildingInstitute.com

Next Open Coaching Call:
Tues April 27 at 11am PDT/ 2pm EDT

Practitioners tell me the Open Coaching and Question and Answer Calls that I offer assists them to gain confidence and discover easy steps they can take right away to gain more clients now. They tell me they feel so relieved to be able to cal me and share the  challenges and questions that have been arising as I provide simple solutions.
 
So bring your questions and dilemmas and I'll answer them on the spot and provide laser coaching to assist you on.
 
This call is invaluable, as I share my years of expertise in coaching to Holistic Practitioners. Whether you're just starting out or you've been in Practice for years, you'll learn from the many great questions that are asked by other Practitioners.
 
You'll gain confidence and inspiration in what you're offering and walk away with simple, effective steps to attract more clients and build your Practice.

This call is FR*EE for all Success Circle members. Not a member? You can get this audio, past calls, detailed notes and 1 month in the membership for only 9.95.  C^lick here for details: http://snipurl.com/lh0ly

Do you wonder why your conversations (either on the phone or in person) with people that seem interested never end up booked appointments?

Do you know most people will not have a session with you, unless they connect and talk with you first?

Did you know it’s in your best interest to first talk to your clients to see if you’re a match to work together?

Most people want to connect and talk with you privately one-on-one first, before they'll decide to work with you. In this class you'll discover:

    * And easy-to-follow format which leads to more clients making the decision to work with you.
    * The important skill of offering a brief free consultation, especially if you're just starting out
    * How to detect clients that are a match and learn to graciously turn away those that aren't so you don’t get drained later
    * If you are already offering a free consult and wonder why folks don’t end up booking a session or treatment, you’ll understand why and how to fix this problem.

This call is FR*EE for all Success Circle members. Not a member? You can get this audio, past calls, detailed notes and 1 month in the membership for only 9.95. 
C^lick here for details: http://snipurl.com/lh0ly

Do you love what you do but sometimes wonder:
 
What forms and paperwork that you should have in place?
When someone asks to work with you, what's the easiest and fastest way to have them book a session?
How to handle clients that cancel last minute?
 
This is one of the most important teleclasses you'll ever attend. Because by having simple policies and procedures in place you create a safe and healthy Practice for you and your clients.
 
We'll be covering everything from the essential forms to have and how to easily communicate your policies to new and existing clients to handling sticky situations like last minute cancellations and no-shows.

This call is FR*EE for all Success Circle members. Not a member? You can get this audio, past calls, detailed notes and 1 month in the membership for only 9.95.
C^lick here for details: http://snipurl.com/lh0ly 

I still remember when a marketing colleague suggested to join Facebook. This was a long time ago and I was hesitant. At that time I didn't understand how it could build my Practice. I thought it would be a waste of  time.

Eventually I entered the Facebook waters and soon I was able to see the huge advantage been a part of this community had to myself both personally and in my practice. I attracted clients, met colleagues I never could have reached and gained media attention.

But Practitioners are making blunders left and right which are actually repelling them from clients and patients. Not sure what they are?

While I see many people joining but because there isn't a Facebook user's manual I've noticed big blunders that business owners are making, this includes Holistic Practitioners.

Currently there 123 million Facebook users worldwide. As I mentioned it's free. And it's a great place to share your expertise, connect with other colleagues for joint projects as well as build the "know like and trust factor" with potential clients and patients.

You've heard me share many times that client and patients choose Practitioners they know, like and trust. Remember they don't have to personally know you but rather get a sense of who you are. You  are somebody they can connect with and trust. With Facebook you can bridge the know, like, and trust factor so when clients and patients call a Practitioner you are right in front of them.

But Practitioners are making blunders left and right which are actually repelling them from clients and patients. Not sure what they are? Let me share three that I see:

1. Being a "shy violet"
Many Holistic Practitioners tend to keep themselves a well hidden secret. Many of my private clients I coach tell me "I don't want to appear boastful" or "I'm shy" or " I don't know what to say." As a colleague of mine says "If you don't your own toot your own horn, nobody will!" I tend to agree. it first has to come from you.

So are you making new connections on Facebook? Do you reach out to colleagues? Do you join groups where your target market (ideal clients and patients) are hanging out? In your status update do you share an upcoming tele-class or talk about an article you're writing bout a challenge/condition that EFT, Acupuncture or Homeopathy can address?

What about your profile? Your profile is  like a business card: your opportunity to share gracefully and subtly what you do. Do you share a sentence or two about your profession or the modality you use? Remember, don't use jargon or fancy language that lay persons can't  understand. If you're not sure how to craft your profile, take a look at the class through the Success Circle I offer: Facebook for Holistic Practitioners.


2. Too Promotional
I've also seen business owners and Practitioners be way too promotional on Facebook. Remember people are not coming to Facebook to be propositioned, they're coming to make connections with other people.

If you're constantly inviting people to your events or constantly talking about what you do in your  Practice without sharing any of your personal life this becomes a turnoff. Just as if you were at a party make sure you share a mix about your professional life and then a bit about your personal.

3. Being Efficient While Having Fun

There's some Practitioners that are spending way too much time on Facebook and some have not joined the Facebook party at all. I highly encourage you to make sure your efficient on Facebook remembered your time is valuable.

As you are adding friends on Facebook make sure you have a blend of the two. Also I encourage you to always be the leader, in other words if people start asking questions about EFT or acupuncture or nutrition keep your answers brief and share what the next steps to get more information about what you do. If your conversations on Facebook feel warm and fuzzy but never lead to new clients you haven't served people that need your help.

Facebook can be a powerful way to reach more clients and patients as well as connecting with those in your field. I am so grateful for this amazing tool that is boosted my practice and get more visibility. Use this vehicle but do get guidance so you are client attractive and not repellent.

I'd love to know what you think about Facebook...Leave your comments- thanks!

(c) 2010 AnaMaria Herrera

About the author: AnaMaria Herrera, Online Marketer and Director of Practice Building Institute publishes 'Practice Building Success' teaching Holistic Practitioners how to get clients and build their practice. For a f*ree audio and resources go to: http://www.PracticeBuildingInstitute.com

Last week I received a message on Facebook. A friend of a good friend was coming into my town and wrote a quick note "AnaMaria I've heard a lot about you...would you like to meet up?" I love meeting new people and being a tour guide in Santa Barbara, and here we are pictured at Alice Keck Park next to my house.

Are you on Facebook?

In case you didn't know Facebook, a f*ree social media site, has been an incredible source of connection for many people. Connecting with old friends and family from the past, new friends and also colleagues. But did you know Facebook can be an incredible source of business for you? You have access to so many people, but the trick is following the social rules on Facebook while graciously promoting your practice and service. It's a skill and an art.

In a future post, I'll  share the do's and don't for this popular f*ree platform. If you're a newcomer to Facebook you'll definitely want to read on. And if you've been on Facebook for a while I encourage you to read article to ensure your presence on Facebook is client attractive and not client repulsive. Let me know your thoughts, okay?

While I teach Holistic Practitioners how to have an online web presence (on the internet) to increase visibility, make connections with potential clients and other professionals that will refer to you, I know there's LOADS of business right in your own community.

This is why it is crucial to have a business card to let folks know of your services. But are you wondering if your business card is effective? Do you give them information but never get a call or email from this person and wonder why? In this crucial class we'll be covering:

•  Essential elements that must be on your business card for clients to call you
•  Getting your first business card and brochure out or revamp your existing one
•  Making sure your marketing materials stand out and get noticed
•  How to know if you should create your own marketing materials or hire someone
  

This call is FR*EE for all Success Circle members. Not a member? You can get this audio, past calls, detailed notes and 1 month in the membership for only 9.95. 
C^lick here for details: http://snipurl.com/lh0ly

Every spring nature sends it's calling card in the form of a beautiful, blooming wisteria plant in my patio.

The smell is so intoxicating, it's as if someone sprayed perfume in the air! Unfortunately Wisteria has a very small window of opportunity to enjoy the scent. Within a couple weeks the blooms are falling and you have to wait an entire year for this beautiful spring time visitor to make an appearance once again.

I think about windows of opportunity for us Practitioners, specifically when we are speaking to a potential client or someone that shows interest in what we do. Like the wisteria plant, we have a small window of opportunity to make a connection, give them enough information about what we do and how we can serve them.

I just wrote a post on how to act and what to say when someone appears interested or curious about what you do. Are you turning clients on or off? Find out, read on and let me know your thoughts...

While I'm very grateful for the Internet teach Holistic Practitioners how to have an online web presence (on the internet) to increase visibility, make connections with potential clients and other professionals that will refer to you, I know there's LOADS of business right in your own community.

There are tons of potential clients all around you in your neighborhood, at the store or at your place of worship, your place of exercise, your children's school, etc. Years ago in my first practices I never had a website, social media did not exist and I didn't even have an e-mail address. I built a successful practice by connecting with people in my daily life.

Over the years after talking to many, many people (friends, family and strangers, etc.) about what I did I learned how to make a brief connection and how to tell them how they can get more information to working with me.

I've noticed that there is an awful lot of Practitioners having conversations with people who say that they're interested in having a session or treatment but the person never follows through. Or the Holistic Practitioner is so passionate about what they do they're willing to talk to anybody and everybody about their modality. Some spend time getting into heated arguments with people who are skeptical about alternative modalities.

I also have my private clients tell me that they do not want to appear pushy or desperate for clients and never takes a guiding role in the conversation, so it ends with no conclusion, and often no client or patient calling you!

The challenge with these situations is that over time they can lead to burnout, frustration and disillusionment. So I want to share some simple tools that you shouldn't leave your home without. These will help you make connections and gain clients.

1. Diplomacy
I really encourage you to come across as a diplomat to alternative modalities rather than a defender. There's nothing wrong with having your opinion, and there's nothing wrong with being passionate. I certainly have both! But if you're coming across as too zealous and not listening to others opinions or even putting down modalities such as conventional medicine, you possibly are turning off potential clients. Clients who would be open to have a session or treatment because they want help but are possibly scared if you come across too fanatical.

Remember everybody is tuned into the radio station "WIIFM: what's in it for me?" so appeal to this part. Speak about the advantages to your modality or treatment or  the benefits that acupuncture or homeopathy or EFT gives.

2. Be A Busy Professional
I highly recommend you approach your conversations especially with people in your community as a busy professional. Remember that people can sense your energy. I want you to come across as if successful, busy Practitioner. So when people are asking questions or making comments keep your answers brief and concise.  A busy Practitioner does not have an hour in the grocery store to answer questions. Let them know you are happy to answer their questions and see how you can help, let them know how they can book a free consultation with you in your office or on the phone.

Never, never try to convince someone to work with you or have a session or treatment with you. This reeks of desperation and neediness. How would you feel if a dentist is begging you to have a root canal with them? You probably would feel uncomfortable. You can still be gracious, courteous and caring while having the demeanor of a successful professional.

3. Your Marketing Message
It's crucial you learn how to answer the question "so what do you do?" Many practitioners fall into the trap of explaining their modality or what they do with language that people don't understand. The problem with this is that a confused mind rarely asked for more information and never asks for a business card! Learn how to explain what you do by focusing on the results you provide or what your clients and patients receive from working with you.

I call this your "Marketing Message" and once you've crafted it, it's worth it's weight in gold! Because you can say it anybody and instead of eyes glazing over listeners will ask "Oh, I get it...how can I work with you?" or "I know someone who could use your help, can I get your business card?" Which brings us to...

4. Your Business Card
As you start to connect with people in your community and learn how to share your magnetic message, the next question that he should be asked is "can I get more information?" or "how do I work with you?

That is the moment you hand them your business card to let them know of your services. Remember first impressions count, you shouldn't be scribbling your phone number on a napkin and handing it to the person. Your business card doesn't have to be complicated, fancy or expensive. But it does have to standout, get noticed and share crucial information for this potential client to actually follow through and pickup the phone to work with you. If you aren't sure what to put on your biz card, check out my class where I show you exactly how to create one.

Make sure you always have this 4 tools with you... you never know who you'll run into. And when you do you'll be polished and professional. and probably gained another client!

Leave your comments- thanks!

(c) 2010 AnaMaria Herrera

About the author: AnaMaria Herrera, Online Marketer and Director of Practice Building Institute publishes 'Practice Building Success' teaching Holistic Practitioners how to get clients and build their practice. For a f*ree audio and resources go to: http://www.PracticeBuildingInstitute.com