Student series: Getting a head start on your marketing strategy

Once you’ve carried out the necessary training to practice your chosen therapy, you’ll need some clients! This means advertising your services and marketing yourself. For some, the concept of self-promotion can feel a little alien.

If you want to turn your passion into a business however, it is necessary. You don’t have to go on the ‘hard sell’ route and push people into hiring you though. There are ways to promote yourself that are natural and organic, growing your brand and your services through connection and community.

Below we look at a few things you can do before you qualify, to give you a head start on growing a community who’ll be ready and waiting once you’ve completed your training.

Research your target client base

Knowing who your target market is, is key. Your potential client base may well vary, but try to think about their similarities. What challenges do they face? What are their interests? What questions do people commonly ask you about the therapy you offer?

Doing this research now will help you tap into this and then answer common questions through your self-promotion when you qualify. This is what will set you apart from other therapists.

Consider where you can advertise online

Most of us will now turn to the Internet to find something – whether it be a product or a service. Because of this, advertising yourself online is a great way to reach potential clients. Before you qualify, try to do a little investigating to see where you can advertise.

We would advise looking into memberships with professional bodies too. Being listed with a recognised organisation can give your clients peace of mind when booking appointments with you. Look at what membership criteria involves and ensure your training meets this criteria.

Start your social media channels

Social media is a great way to make connections, join communities and generally make some online friends. Doing this early means you will have a pool of potential clients ready to hear about your services once you qualify.

If you haven’t already, start your business social media channels and start engaging! Follow similar accounts, comment, start conversations – it’s called social media for a reason.

If the world of promotion and marketing daunts you, look to see if there are any courses or workshops near you and reach out to fellow therapists to see what works for them.