How presenting a workshop can boost your prospects
Workshops are a great way to promote your private practice. They give you the chance to demonstrate your expertise, connect with potential clients, and generate awareness.
If time is limited, try dipping your toe in rather than taking the plunge. Perhaps you could offer to give a ten minute talk at a networking event. Or create a podcast and email it to potential clients.
If you have the time and energy to design a workshop lasting half an hour or more, here are some useful tips…
What will your workshop be about?
Spend ten minutes thinking of ideas that will attract potential clients. The possibilities are endless…
Example one: if you’re a psychotherapist, you could provide a talk on coping with stress for the employees of a large company. Demonstrating your expertise will show your audience just how skilled you are. Individual employees may decide to come to you privately, or will recommend you to others. The employer may even ask you to provide regular sessions.
Example two: if you’re a reflexologist, you could run a workshop at a local health club showing its members how to give their family and friends a ten minute foot massage, while highlighting the benefits of reflexology. Your profile will be raised, you’ll get great word-of-mouth marketing and the health club may invite you back for more.
Top tips for a successful workshop
1. Start small
Your first workshop is scary, so don’t run out and hire Wembley Stadium – start small. Your first workshop should be for just a handful of people. You will gain confidence quickly and learn how to manage a group.
2. Know your market
Think about your target market, and the sorts of workshops that may interest them. Don’t specialise too much – try to think of subjects that will appeal to the widest audience.
3. Avoid death by PowerPoint
Don’t bore your audience to death. When designing your workshop, think about how you can get them involved and engaged. Games, activities, question and answer sessions, quizzes…the more interactive, the better.
4. Charge for your workshop, even if it’s a tiny amount
It can be tempting to offer a free workshop. After all, that will attract the largest audience, right? Not necessarily. If you offer your time for free, people might think it has no value. Charging even a small amount, such as £10, will result in a much lower drop-out rate. If you really feel that you can’t charge for your time, consider a virtual workshop by offering a free webinar – that way, you won’t have to hire premises or provide food and drink.
5. Make an impression
Remember – everyone should leave with your contact details. Use your business cards or provide a useful handout on headed paper. Include a call to action asking people to get in touch if they’d like to find out more about your services.
The sky’s the limit
If you enjoy giving workshops, and are good at it, the sky’s the limit. Not only will they become a great way to promote your private practice – they can become a lucrative addition to your business offering.