How many times have you been talking to prospective clients and after you tell them what you do, they immediately ask, “What is a life coach?” And the only answer you can think of is the Wikipedia definition of “What is a life coach?” So you tell them “coaching is a method of directing, instructing and training a person or group of people, with the aim to achieve some goal or develop specific skills.” And they stare blankly at you and wonder what planet you’re from. Now the real question is how to become a coach who can answer the question, “What is a life coach?” and have it turn into a meaningful conversation.

It’s crucial that you are able to describe what you do in a way that will help prospective clients understand that you are someone who could be a solution to their relationship problem, their business problems, or whatever your niche is. The test is how to become a coach who can position yourself in a way that intrigues the other person and gets them to genuinely want to know more about what you do after they ask you “what is a life coach?”

What’s The Secret to How to Become a Coach Who Draws Curiosity?

Well, know that using your label as a “coach” can be confusing or a conversation stopper. And don’t start talking about the process. Most people will shut down.

So, how to become a coach who attracts prospective clients? Recognize people are motivated by two things. Pain and pleasure. They move away from pain and toward pleasure. So communicate the problem or pain, before you offer the solution. This works because when people have a problem, they have a type of “radar” that seeks a solution. So if you can communicate that you understand their problem, you will get their attention right away.

If You Want to Know How to Become a Coach Who Gets a Prospective Client’s Attention, Be as Specific as Possible

“I work with real estate agents who face the challenges of a slow economy” will not get the results that “I work with real estate agents who are struggling to get clients.” That is really what is a life coach from the position of that niche of clients.

Now that you have their attention, offer the solution. Use stories and testimonials to communicate that you do indeed have the answer to their problem. Now you know how to become a coach who can talk with prospective clients with confidence…and avoid the uncomfortable question, “what is a life coach, anyway?”

Colette Seymann

Accountability Coach, JTS Advisors