I had a coach ask recently how she could swing people into her paid coaching, after she’d already “solved all their problems” on the initial introduction call.
Here’s how I unpack that one:
- It’s irresponsible to “coach” someone you just met, as you can’t possibly know enough about who they are or what they want to offer any kind of useful solution.
- An initial call should be about discovery and calibration. Discovering what they need, and calibrating whether you’re the right person to provide that.
- The client’s unlikely to value what you give her for free, and therefore won’t take any action on your advice. That way, you both lose.
- It’s inconceivable that you can solve any deep problems, feed any meaningful desires or drive lasting transformation in a single call. Just not possible.
- Finally, why give your best stuff away? Learn to charge what you’re worth, and build meaningful relationships of impact and mutual value.
I could go on, but in case you’re still unclear:
Don’t coach for free.