Stop Leaving Money on the Table: The Art of Following Up in Your Doula Business
Following Up with Leads: A Game-Changer for Your Doula Business
Today, we’re talking about something that can make a huge difference in your doula business: following up with leads. I know what you’re probably thinking—“Follow up? Ugh! I don’t want to seem pushy or annoying!” You’re not alone. So many doulas worry about this, especially when they’re working hard to grow their online business, launch new offers, or build out their marketing funnels. But here’s the thing: following up doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable, and it definitely doesn’t have to come across as pushy.
In fact, following up is one of the most caring, respectful things you can do for potential clients. Think about it: moms have busy, hectic lives, just like us. Between kids, work, managing a household, and everything else, there’s a lot going on. If your client is pregnant or just had a baby, she’s probably not saying “no”—she’s just waiting for the right time or might need a gentle nudge. Today, we’ll break down why following up is essential for a thriving doula business, how to make it feel genuine, and share specific messages to keep the door open without sounding like you’re bugging anyone.
Why Following Up is a Key Part of Your Doula Business Strategy
Let’s start by talking about why following up is such a powerful tool in your business. Think about a time when you were interested in a service—maybe a training, a course, or even something personal you wanted to buy—but life got busy. You might’ve thought, “I’ll get to it later,” and then totally forgot, right? The same thing happens with your potential clients. They may genuinely want to work with you, but everyday life sweeps them away.
By following up, you’re offering a gentle reminder that shows you care. You’re letting them know they’re still on your radar, and you’re holding space for them without forcing anything. It’s a courtesy to remind them of something that could make a real positive difference in their life, especially if they’ve already shared with you how much support they need. Following up demonstrates you’re committed to helping them in their journey, and that’s what makes it a powerful part of any birth business strategy.
Step Up Your Doula Marketing with These Follow-Up Strategies
I have to be real—there are certain “follow-up” methods that I think are a waste of time. I call these the “friendly check-ins,” and they don’t really serve anyone. “Hi, just checking in, wanted to follow up on our conversation” doesn’t move the needle in your business. As doulas, we need to take a more strategic approach, using follow-ups as a marketing tool that aligns with our values and creates meaningful connections.
1. Share a Real Client Experience
If you’ve just attended an incredible birth, why not use that experience to create a meaningful follow-up? Say you’ve been working with a client who had a transformative experience that reminded you of a potential client’s needs. Here’s how to use that moment:
*“Hey [Name], I just got back from an incredible birth experience that reminded me so much of you! My client had preferences very similar to yours, and it was such a beautiful, transformative moment. I wanted to reach out and share because I thought of you and would love to get on a call if you’d like to hear more about it.”*
This approach is relevant, genuine, and creates a subtle testimonial effect. It keeps the conversation alive in a way that feels authentic, creating a funnel effect in your birth business where each follow-up builds your credibility and connection.
2. Leverage Content that Speaks Directly to Them
We create content for our ideal audience, right? And that content is often the first thing that draws in leads for your online offers. So, if you’re posting something that aligns with a recent consultation you had, why not follow up with that lead?
*“Hi [Name], I just posted something that I thought might resonate with you based on what we talked about in our consultation. I created it with you in mind and wanted to see how you’re doing and if you’re ready to move forward!”*
This shows them you remember the details of your conversation, while sharing content reinforces your expertise in the doula space.
3. Offer Relevant Resources to Build Trust
Every consultation gives you insights into what your potential clients are seeking. Use this information to personalize your follow-ups, sharing relevant resources to help them feel supported. Here’s how you might approach it:
*“Hi [Name], I remembered you mentioning [specific concern] and thought this resource might be helpful for you. It’s something I’ve shared with other clients, and it’s been super valuable in their journeys. Let me know if you have any other questions!”*
This isn’t just a follow-up; it’s a powerful way to show that you’re there to support them, whether or not they’re ready to commit right now. Every interaction like this builds trust, positioning you as a reliable, supportive figure in their journey.
Timing is Everything in Your Follow-Up Funnel
When it comes to follow-ups, timing can make or break your success. You don’t want to follow up too soon and seem overly eager, but you also don’t want to wait so long that they forget about you or their interest fades. Here’s a simple strategy: wrap up conversations with timeline-specific questions. For instance:
*“When do you think you’ll have time to chat with your partner? If you’re planning to discuss it Monday night, I can reach out Tuesday morning to answer any questions.”*
This keeps things open and respectful, without putting pressure on them. You’re setting up a follow-up plan that’s aligned with their timeline, and you’re being thoughtful and proactive.
Track Your Leads Like a Pro Doula
One thing that often gets overlooked in the doula business world? Tracking your leads. If you want to convert more leads into clients, you need a system to keep track of every detail—when you followed up, what you said, their response, and the timing. It doesn’t have to be fancy, even a simple spreadsheet will do, but having this will give you clarity on what’s working in your marketing and sales efforts.
Tracking also helps you avoid mistakes like repeating yourself or forgetting what they said in previous conversations. It keeps your follow-up process consistent and genuine, which is key for online sales success.
The Heart of Following Up: It’s a Courtesy, Not a Nuisance
Let’s circle back to the heart of following up: it’s a courtesy, not a nuisance. By following up thoughtfully, you’re helping potential clients who may feel overwhelmed, indecisive, or distracted by the demands of their daily lives. You’re keeping the connection open, and when the timing is right, they’ll appreciate that.
Most people need time and reminders to make big decisions. Following up with kindness shows them, “I see you, and I want to support you when you’re ready.” You’re not just another service provider; you’re a steady, reliable presence in their journey to welcoming their new baby.
Final Thoughts: Follow Up with Confidence in Your Doula Business
Following up isn’t about being pushy—it’s about showing commitment and belief in the value of what you offer. Thoughtful follow-ups say, “I’m here for you when you’re ready, and I’m committed to supporting you.” Clients can feel that sincerity, and it builds trust, keeping the relationship warm and open. Don’t be afraid to follow up—just do it in a way that feels true to you and respectful to them.
If following up has felt daunting, I hope this gives you a fresh perspective and tools you can use to create meaningful connections that convert into lifelong clients. Keep following up, keep showing up, and watch how those gentle reminders can transform your doula business, strengthening your online presence and building a community that values your support.
