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30 Days

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30 Days

Posted by David Wood |

Welcome to the 30 Day Challenge.

You should have received your phone info for tonight’s call. If not you can find it, along with the rules on the download page (the link was emailed to you when you first signed up and will be on each email we send).

You may start today with your first invitation (Oct 23rd) or you can wait until tomorrow (Oct 24th), since this call is pretty late in the day for some. We just want 30 consecutive posts.

In your posts include who you called, your reason for inviting them, and the result. Click on the comments link below this entry to post your progress.

Feel free to encourage one another as well as you challenge together.

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About David Wood

For 20 years David has helped entrepreneurs around the globe to grow their results, by growing themselves. A former consulting actuary to Fortune 50 companies in New York, David quit corporate life to pursue his inner journey, which now deeply influences his work. A digital nomad, David is currently dancing salsa, paragliding, and coaching his rock star entrepreneur clients from Colombia. His specialty is doubling your productivity and profits, while halving your stress. If you become a highly authentic and inspirational leader in the process, well….that can’t be helped.

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828 Comments

Leave your reply.
  • Suzanne B.
    · Reply

    Friday, November 21, 2008 at 3:43 PM

    My report will be later, as I’m still hoping to have the required $$$ in hand. This is challenging to “be cool” with my potential clients and really focus on what is best for them. I’m going over David’s notes before I call them!!

    But Maria said yes when invited. She’s in our young professionals Bible study group.

  • Julie Colbrese
    · Reply

    Friday, November 21, 2008 at 1:56 PM

    Wow! Here we are at 30 days already and I LOVED the structure and rigor of this program. Most days it was not hard to come up with someone, anyone to ask–some days, it got late and I had to send an email before midnight, but got it in. I combined asking private life coaching clients and executive coaching clients that I coach through an organization, so having those two paths to go down really helped.
    Today, I asked Ken to be a corporate client. Unfortunately, he is unavailable until January, but promised to meet w/ him then and is interested in the coaching opportunity.
    So, here are my stats:

    30 days = 30 invitations
    6 sample sessions/intro meetings
    0 non-paying clients
    2 new paying clients (and one renewal!)
    Total money in hand from 2 new clients: $1350.

    Great to have this structure. Would be interested to hear how people are going to continue moving forward. Looking forward to the call on Monday.
    Happy Coaching!
    Julie

  • Tina @ InnerDelight
    · Reply

    Friday, November 21, 2008 at 1:53 PM

    Had a great session with MK and she has a huge network and is eager to refer me and promote my classes.
    My session for tomorrow cancelled so I am having my first free weekend in a month:-) It’s been awesome but also quite intense…I am ready for the beach in Oz soon!
    I’ll add up the totals tomorrow from the past 30 days;it’s been great! Also had another session with Ann today, she is a coach herself and was so happy to be coached.
    I have a few sessions set up for when I am in Singapore a few weeks from now and will focus my energy on getting group classes going now.
    I have been pleasantly surprised at how big the demand is for what we offer.
    I will definitely do something like this again but will have an online diary set up for people to book in! That took up a lot of time in the beginning. So I have grown and learnt a lot and thank you all!
    blessings,
    Tina

  • Mary
    · Reply

    Friday, November 21, 2008 at 1:39 PM

    I left voicemail messages for the two best coaching prospects from the conferences that I attended on Wednesday and who I had e-mailed yesterday. And I gave a sample session to Cippi. And my husband made contact with a person who works for a venture firm that makes clean energy investments, and I’ve started to research their website in preparation for contacting her.

    So as we draw this challenge to a close, here are my results:
    I have started coaching 2 new paid clients. One has paid me $600 so far and will be sending me his second $600 check for December’s coaching next week. The second client has sent me $650 for her first month’s coaching. And a third person wants to start coaching with me in mid-January.

    I have found this process has helped me be bolder in offering sample sessions which has been good. It has also helped me clarify that for my niche I do not want to be offering sample sessions to friends, or to just anyone and everyone. I want to be strategic in knowing exactly the people and organizations I want to be coaching first, and then make a powerful approach to them through a warm referral. I have not always done that through this process, but I think I have learned through my mistakes as well.

    So all in all, thank you David for setting this up, and for everyone’s participation. Good luck to everyone!

  • Irene Gutmann
    · Reply

    Friday, November 21, 2008 at 1:27 PM

    I just invited 2 more people to sessions and I was just following up with e-mails after the last event.

    About 21 invites plus several group invites.

    Sessions to be scheduled: 11
    Sessions scheduled:5
    Sessions done:3

    I would love to continue to work on my enrolling skills after this challenge with those of you who are interested.

    David – thank you so much for all you’ve done! I am in a much freer place than I was when I started this. I haven’t accomplished all that I had hoped but I have accomplished the freedom that I hoped for. I am currently taking another class that is demanding and I joined a coaching group so my attention is scattered but I am happy with the progress I’ve made.

    I still want to work on converting free sessions into paying clients. So far, the people I coached were not ideal clients but may refer to me. I did coach a new person who self-referred from hearing me on my talk show. She may continue coaching.

  • jerry
    · Reply

    Friday, November 21, 2008 at 8:36 AM

    This morning i have 4 e-mails from my talk to a local association
    I am doing an intro session with Mike H today.

    Jerry

  • Jacleen
    · Reply

    Friday, November 21, 2008 at 1:09 AM

    Day 29: Today I emailed Kym H. who attended the networking event I went to on Tues. I have seen her at other events where she was promoting her husband’s pest control business, but at this event she was also promoting her own proofreading and editing business. It would be fun to work with her to create her own business identity.

  • Dr. Lorrie Lauer
    · Reply

    Friday, November 21, 2008 at 12:08 AM

    Day 29–Todays invitation went to Lynn who is a business coach. She had mentioned that she was working on letting go of weight, my niche. I called her but she was too busy to talk, so emailed her an invitation.

    Also, had 4th session with Toni, my first paying client. She agreed to another month of coaching at $500. Total income: $1550.

    Wow, has this been a wonderful experience. Thanks David, Beth and all of you incredible coaches out there. Besides the experiences of inviting at least a person a day, giving complementary coaching sessions, signing up clients and coaching them, I have grown, made incredible contacts, joined a Master Mind group, and got a mentor to help me with computer stuff–all this as a result of the 30 day challenge. Thank you all for your support, input, and more.

  • Dave Heasler
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 10:55 PM

    Another response today from someone interested in a taste of coaching.

    This evening sent out an invitation to a leader in our religious denomination who I’m sure would have heard of coaching and who is a close friend of one of my clients. We’ll see what comes of it.

  • Irene Gutmann
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 10:25 PM

    I fell off the program on Sunday but I’m sort of back. An aquaintence offerered to swap coaching with PR services and I said that I was interested.

  • jerry
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 10:20 PM

    Did a intro session late this afternoon with Matt
    A referral from a real estate investor group ( this is a great
    market for coaching on finance, business, or credit)

    I think he will sign up tomorrow and will refer others

    Jerry

  • Bob Cox
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 9:33 PM

    Hi all–

    I’m sneaking in under the wire with an invite to Cathy A. in my niche group.

    Glad you are thinking to keep some form of support community going….great idea!

    Bob

  • Patty
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 8:43 PM

    Hi! Yes, Wendy, I am definitely interested in continuing and grateful you’ll coordinate what that might look like. I’m thrilled with my progress and realize that the support structure has contributed greatly to my success.

    Today’s invite went to Stacey B. – yes, you guessed it: another woman in construction. It feels great to offer my services to this niche that I have such comapssion for! I’ll let you know how it goes…

    Patty @ Life by Design.biz

  • Elisabeth
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 8:19 PM

    And now about my reports…

    Gathered a lot of No’s today. Went to a few upscale stores to offer my coaching services and got several “no thanks, I’m good!” I stopped asking for their names after the first three… the first was Beth (shoe store), the next was Paige at a doggy treats store (she did take my card), the next one already had a coach, one of the high-profile coaches in town who worked with his entire business, and then a clothing store with two women whose names I didn’t bother to ask (“we’re good”).

    But I also discovered a spa I hadn’t realized was there and they were very friendly and are open to maybe having one or more of their folks doing a session, plus they could also be a source of referrals and when I suggested that they were quite positive. I’ll follow up with them as soon as I have proper business cards.

    Plus the owner of a wine store that I almost skipped said that while he didn’t need my services right now (the wine store was his big dream and he’s living it now), he said that there might be possibilities. He asked about my rates and I said $250/month for 3 half-hour coaching sessions. Yes! I’m pleased with myself. No mention of discounts.

    Also had a lengthy phone call with Sue, a member of my mastermind group, who is a coach herself (a much more experienced one and a much higher-priced one) and she gave me a ton of wonderful advice.

    And last but not least, Pam, another member of my mastermind group wants to schedule a session and maybe coaching! Yay!

    Last but not least, I finally got hold of John, my hairdresser, and I figured, why not get a haircut and talk to him then. So tomorrow, I’ll get that hair cut and tell him about coaching. He will, of course, be a terrific referral source 😉

  • Elisabeth
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 8:06 PM

    Wendy: Yes, Yes, Yes! I’m in! I want to continue the challenge after the 30 days are over. I was just thinking about that and wondering how that might be possible. I’ve found it so inspiring and really want to keep going. I’ll email you.

  • Julie Colbrese
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 5:08 PM

    Good job, Jan, on using LinkedIn. I know I should be leveraging that resource–one of my clients even works for LinkedIn, so no excuse because he has offered to show me how to maximize it–but I haven’t gotten around to it yet. Went to a cheesy networking event today where you each get 2 minutes to talk about your business and then pass out cards–I HATE THOSE! But, I did meet two people who came up to me after and asked to meet for coffee. So, today I asked Kip. Kip and I are meeting for coffee on the 11th. I need to schedule something with the other two contacts–but I am a little slower on follow up. Will get to it tomorrow.

  • jan
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 5:02 PM

    I re-connected with a former colleague, Sue, that I found on LinkedIn. I had sent her an email awhile back and didn’t hear from her. Because of this challenge, I decided to try again. Heard back from her right away. I sent a reply with an invite and we are doing a trial session Monday. Interestingly, she is a specific niche of mine – leaders in new roles. She’s been in this new company 3 months. I told her we’d leverage her strengths and address the gaps of the learning curve everyone goes through as they transition into new companies. She is in HR so if she is not interested in a coaching structure, she may be a good referral partner!

  • Tina Nies
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 4:46 PM

    Thursday: Today’s invite was a phone call to George, a network marketer. I meet him at a networking lunch recently. He said sure, but asked if we could do it after the holidays next week (US Thanksgiving) as he was leaving this weekend for vacation. So, I’ll follow up the following week.

    I also finally connected with Greg, who agreed to a session a few weeks ago, so we set a time to meet next Monday. We’re meeting in person before going to another networking mixer that evening where I hope to invite more people!

  • Wendy
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 4:07 PM

    Anybody want to continue this challenge after the 30 days are up?

    I have some ideas for how we can do that as a group, including perhaps periodic conference calls and a new forum where we can post our promises and results.

    I was thinking to run a mini-challenge for myself every calendar month starting December 1 (and take the Thanksgiving week off to focus mostly on other things). I know I’ll get better results in a community, so I’d be thrilled if you’d join me.

    I’m happy to set it up if anyone’s interested.

    E-mail me (Wendy@TheProsperousArtist.com) if you are.

  • Wendy
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 3:55 PM

    Th 11/20:

    Today’s intro call got moved to tomorrow, because he hadn’t been able to read the menu of services yet. The one scheduled for Wednesday e-mailed to cancel. The one tentatively scheduled for tomorrow e-mailed to postpone till next Friday. The one scheduled for yesterday also got postponed due to my pre-qualifying questions – he doesn’t have the money yet, but expects to possibly in a couple of days.

    I’m going to make a couple of calls right now. I don’t expect to have time before Sunday to update my numbers.

    What I’m realizing from my recent drop in results is that it’s time to really devote some energy to creating lower-priced offerings and reach much larger numbers of people with them. It’s what I’ve been intending anyway – I’d just hoped to increase my 1-to-1 client base a little more first so I’d have more time and money to invest in the new projects. Now it will just need to be done faster and with more faith!

    The sick kitty’s been taking up most of my non-appointment-ed time. The good news is she’s back home and seems to be getting better.

    I haven’t refreshed this page or read your updates since I posted yesterday, so if you expressed concern or sent good wishes for my kitty, thank you! I’ll thank personally once I’ve read your posts.

    Peace and Prosperity,
    Wendy

  • Suzanne B.
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 3:38 PM

    I got to know the sweet nurse who gave me my flu shot today. I invited her to a comp session as she mentioned being a bit up in the air about where to go next career wise.

    I did an intro session with great feedback this morning. It’s the daughter of a dear friend, so I probably won’t formally coach her. But she loved it and asked if she could refer a friend (who has tons of $ YEA!) I’ll send follow up emails to both her and the friend with a referral yesterday. How Very Fun!

    . . . I did have two “interesting” interactions with dear friends this morning: one friend telling me something she thought could “turn clients off” (being too enthusiastic about things they were not that excited about themselves). However her own daughter was the one I just did an intro session with and she loved it. \”/ Then another friend told me I shouldn’t raise my rates – “times are hard!” So I think I will keep my business to myself and SO appreciate a community of like-minded folk to inspire and give balancing perspective to what I am about in this awesome coaching experience!

  • Mary
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 1:31 PM

    PS: I also gave a sample session to Mavis today and she is going to try to think of people in my niche to refer me to.

  • Mary
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 1:24 PM

    I have a client who just completed her coaching with me and is facing some difficult financial difficulties, so I offered her the option of marketing me to potential folks who are doing sustainability work and offering them the option to do sample sessions with me, and if 2 of them became clients I would forgive her final bill. While I think she feels very grateful for the coaching I gave her, she did not take me up on my offer for three reasons: 1) she does not have the time to do this with the work she is doing; 2) she feels like her contacts in the sustainability arena are old; and 3) she feels awkward offering my services to people whose circumstances she does not know since she is out of touch with them. Instead, she offered to recommend me whenever a person who seemed ripe for coaching came along, and would do that anyway. While I am disappointed in her response, I understand. It gets at the awkwardness any of us feel in offering sample sessions to people whose circumstances we do not know.

    But in the spirit of not knowing much of the circumstances and making the offer anyway, 🙂 I sent follow up e-mails to 2 people from yesterday’s trade shows who seemed ripe for coaching and said I’d call them tomorrow.

  • Tina @ InnerDelight
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 1:07 PM

    Had a great session with Paula today and invited my hairdresser to come in for a session when I come back from Oz. One of my clients took me out last night to the best restaurant in Amsterdam to celebrate all her achievements:-) What a treat! I do love my job:-) She is an amazing networker and wanted a stack of my cards to hand out when she goes to her events, as she wants to promote me.
    Tomorrow I am meeting up with MK, who’s in town from Ireland, and who connected with me through a forum.
    One of my other clients just renewed for another 6 months and also referred her best friend to me. He’s getting back to me after Thanksgiving as to when to start.
    Well, it’s sure been an interesting month!! And it has been really wonderful to read everyone else’s sharings! Some days flow, others seem to go slow, yet, every day taking action moves us all forward. Imagine what else is possible…
    blessings,
    Tina

  • CoachShar
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 11:25 AM

    Oh! I forgot to mention that I approached the local belly dance instructor to rent space from her for my Irish Dance school (yes, I do that, too), and successfully pitched coaching as something that her students would be interested in. I’m giving her the initial consult in the next couple of weeks, and will use that as a stepping board to her clientele.

    I’m also thinking of getting a booth at the upcoming wedding convention event. Talk about folks wanting to get their lives, weight and nerves in line quickly! I’m hoping this one hits, too.

  • CoachShar
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 11:15 AM

    Well, I haven’t been posting, because I have been feeling very much like the underachiever compared to most of you, but here we go.

    As of today, I’ve signed two paying clients, proposed services to a dozen more, and have one pro-bono (with the agreement that he will provide testimonials and referrals). Further, thanks to David’s calls, I’ve registered two new business names/websites that are specifically geared to two specialty aspects of my business. David, your calls forced me to think about who I am and what I do, and what I love. For that, I truly thank you!!! I also have joined two professional groups, both of which represent excellent client and referral sources, as well as sources of personal contacts. I don’t think I’m joining any local BNI orgs — they’re just not for me. However, the marketing ideas and possibilities are now flowing, and I am extremely confident that I’ll have a stable base of paying clients by Christmas.

    I’ve started my ezines, learned how to effectively pitch myself and my services, and created niches within which I can speak to my passions. This is why I joined this group. Best money I’ve ever spent. I’m honored to have met all of you during this journey.

    With wishes for unlimited success for all,

    Sharon.

  • Elisabeth
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 9:58 AM

    Wow, Suzanne! Congratulations on your new full-fee paying client. You’re inspiring me to new and improved efforts and giving me ideas about who could approach next! I wasn’t sure about how to approach business owners and which ones, but this is a great idea — small, upscale, …

    Glad you’re my buddy and especially that we’ll be supporting each other for the next three months too. I’m sure that’ll help with the ongoing growth!

    Thanks!

  • jan
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 9:50 AM

    This is the invite for Wed. 11-19 – I was out celebrating UT Women’s Volleyball win over the #3 team Nebraska.
    I invited the manager, Matt of the person I did a trial session with yesterday. His job will also be eliminated in the next year at the California site I’ve previously mentioned.

    The trial session with Nancy was very timely as she had just been asked to interview with a great company within the next two days and was taken off guard by how fast it was moving. It was a great session. She’s not interested in coaching at this time which is OK because I see her as a referral source due to her position. Though she didn’t have anyone in mind at the time, she said she’d be happy to pass the word on because she felt I was gifted at it.

  • jerry
    · Reply

    Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 8:55 AM

    I have an invite with Bob w this morning and Don B this afternoon
    Today I am speaking at an association meeting on Credit Coaching

    This has been a great market for the economy we are in.

    Jerry

  • Danny Freedman
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 11:54 PM

    Today I invited Scott he’s a motivational speaker and coach. h

  • Danny Freedman
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 11:54 PM

    Today I invited Scott he’s a motivational speaker and coach. h

  • Suzanne B.
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 11:48 PM

    Bob, a senior VP operations & winemaking for multiple winneries was demo-ing his wares in Costco today. After a spirited and fun conversation he accepted my invitation to coaching. His first response was, “Do I look like I need coaching?” I always say, I have a coach. Everyone needs a coach,” with a smile. So I’m to call him Thursday when he’ll be back from Walla Walla (He said come visit there! It’s like Napa Valley was 50 years ago. So O.K.! We’re going there to bike & visit wineries soon! Wanna come?) (How about exchanging wholesale wines for coaching? \”/ )

    I’ve had feedback from 3 people who didn’t want coaching, but really benefited from their session with me and expressed it.

    I’m having consistently great results from my intro sessions, but after the initial flurry of 3, I haven’t reeled any in. I will keep at it, but again, DAVID WOODS!!!!!!!, I think there is reall potential to do this challenge thing and amazing mentoring on the next steps after giving the warm invitation and setting up the intro . . .well, yes you have given us a lot of info foreffective intros. Some of us just need more time & coaching, you know? \”/ Besides, this is SO FUN!!!! Thanks! Thanks Beth for the “Exploding Your Practice” info. I contacted Terri. A “SHOUT OUT” to my new buddy, Elizabeth!

  • Suzanne B.
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 11:39 PM

    I believe I did send this yesterday, because I copy and place what I send into my “sent” file. Here it is again:

    Bob, a senior VP operations & winemaking for multiple winneries was demo-ing his wares in Costco today. After a spirited and fun conversation he accepted my invitation to coaching. His first response was, “Do I look like I need coaching?” I always say, I have a coach. Everyone needs a coach,” with a smile. So I’m to call him Thursday when he’ll be back from Walla Walla (He said come visit there! It’s like Napa Valley was 50 years ago. So O.K.! We’re going there to bike & visit wineries soon! Wanna come?) (How about exchanging wholesale wines for coaching? \”/ )

    I’ve had feedback from 3 people who didn’t want coaching, but really benefited from their session with me and expressed it.

    I’m having consistently great results from my intro sessions, but after the initial flurry of 3, I haven’t reeled any in. I will keep at it, but again, DAVID WOODS!!!!!!!, I think there is reall potential to do this challenge thing and amazing mentoring on the next steps after giving the warm invitation and setting up the intro . . .well, yes you have given us a lot of info foreffective intros. Some of us just need more time & coaching, you know? \”/ Besides, this is SO FUN!!!! Thanks! Thanks Beth for the “Exploding Your Practice” info. I contacted Terri. A “SHOUT OUT” to my new buddy, Elizabeth!

  • Elisabeth
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 11:39 PM

    Thanks so much for your feedback, Julie. I guess I have to do some more work on overcoming scarcity thinking and such. And/or find my prospects in different demographic groups!

  • Suzanne B.
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 11:30 PM

    Well yesterday I was stressing about not having two clients paying over $100 a month so I could get my $197 back and reach the goal I had set out for. I realized that was pretty backward thinking and decided to focus – MOST HAPPILY TOO!!! – on all I have gained this month – including knowing how to effectively ask for an introductory session, knowing a great deal about how to do a good session and knowing how to keep motivated to keep it all up. I’m trusting I have also made some great new healthy habits and mental patterning! And I’ve enjoyed a raft of delightful coaches. I do thank you all.

    At lunch after telling an old acquaintance about my coaching, she said she would refer me to a friend she felt could benefit from coaching. As we left she accepted my offer for a complimentary introductory session. I won’t coach her, as I feel we’re too close. But she will be a great potential source for more referrals.

    Icing on the nummy cake: Barb, from the upscale paint boutique, kept her “rescheduled-once” appointment, expressed delight with her session with me, experienced a nice gehstalt and signed up for my full fee of $250 per month!!! (Saying, Oh. I’m so relieved. I was wondering how much it would be. I’m so glad it is reasonable. . . so, when shall I raise my rates!!! \”/) She also said she’d like permission to recommend me to a friend and told me to please keep approaching people. She thanked me profusely for approaching her. Wow.

    I AM MAKING THE 30 DAY CHALLENGE GOAL!! Ah-h-h. That makes two. Oh My Gosh! I’m so excited & thankful & jazzed & 25 more expressions of great enthusiasm! THANKS!!! This is so life-changing for me. David, you are an absolute genius and a dear soul to me! Thank you Sir!!!

  • Dave Heasler
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 10:19 PM

    Every day giving a new invitation. Almost every day having someone take me up on it.

    Today’s invitation went to a man who lost everything to divorce two years ago and is trying to work his way back to life. He thinks coaching could help. I agree. He didn’t have his calendar with him but assured me he’d be connecting with me tomorrow to set up a concrete appointment.

  • Julie Colbrese
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 10:17 PM

    Hello 30dayers
    Today I asked Cynthia. Cynthia is a business coaching client of a friend of mine and she approached me at a business event because she learned I do life coaching and thought she might need that. I took her card and offered to meet her for coffee AND I want to circle back w/ my friend first and make sure he doesn’t see a conflict in me potentially life coaching her while he “business” coaches her. I may just talk to my friend and let him know that she wants more whole life coaching (rather than just busness-focused). Although, he is really more of a consultant than a coach, so he might not be comfortable in that area.
    To give a POV on Elizabeth’s question above on rates… I come from a professional services background, so I was used to charging for my time prior to becoming a coach. I think one of the hardest things for some new coaches is believing their time and expertise has value. I find money is rarely the reason clients say no. AND, it’s just as much work to get a $150/hr client as it is to get a $50. client, so you might as well go for it.

  • Elisabeth
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 10:07 PM

    No healing professionals yet. Got a wealth of writing/editing/transcription/translation assignments that keep me glued to my computer all day just to keep up. Would like to diversify things a great deal by adding a bunch of new (and well-paying) coaching clients.

    I did follow up with Sue and we will meet for a coaching session on Tuesday. And I also wrote to Teresa and Stephanie but haven’t heard back.

    I did get an inquiry by way of my website (i think) and had an exploratory session with her (T.). T. is dealing with a heck of a challenge, and she may or may not even be able to pay at all. And then she had to suddenly cut the call short because of an emergency phone call from a family member on her other cell phone… I”m not holding my breath about hearing back from her. She said she’d get back in touch to set something up… we’ll see. If she’s meant to be my client, she’ll call…

    Question to those of you who have gotten high-paying clients: How did you do that??? Any tips? And are any of you fairly new to this too?

    Last but not least: I just got my new domain name: http://www.CoachElisabeth.com 🙂

  • Tina Nies
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 9:11 PM

    Wednesday: This challenge is awesome for me to get in the habit of making invites and also being accountable to the group to make a daily report. I feel that even though I’ve been doing more the minimum each day, it’s really getting my excitement building about setting specific goals for my coaching business instead of just doing it as I go. I love getting more organized!

    I sent out more email invites, a few teachers that I know from a nearby town. They attended an event where I spoke about happiness and choice. They had some interest in what I do, so I hope to have some positive response from 1 or 2 of them.

  • Jacleen
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 8:59 PM

    Day 28: Emailed a woman I met at the networking event I went to on Tues. She had spoken to me about getting a new job to meet people and I had done a mini-session for her in the moment. She was very open to what we were doing and I hope will reply. It’s almost 1pm here and I’m still in my pj’s! Not feeling 100% today so am so grateful that I have the luxury of working from home 🙂

  • Mary
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 8:45 PM

    Well today was a bonanza. I drove up to Boston and went to 2 Green tech company trade shows. While I was there I talked to probably 20 – 25 different people about their companies, as well as what I do, and offered a sample session to most of these people. One person, Mark, was particularly interested in my coaching because his organization invests in new clean energy start-ups, and he wants to make sure his investments pay off, and many times, there are leadership or organizational issues that are getting in the way of these start-ups’ success. So he and I will connect tomorrow and schedule his sample coaching session. (This is just the kind of steady referral type of person that I’ve been looking for.)

    Another person, Dan, was also very interested because his solar power company is growing so quickly, he can’t keep up with the organizational growth issues.

    And other people seemed intrigued by my offer of a sample session, but did not have a strong desire to do it at this point. But they now have my card and I have theirs, so we can each reach each other.

  • Patty
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 8:02 PM

    Candice A was my invitee today. She works in construction, and in a similar position that I had when I worked in that industry, so I have a lot of compassion for her.

    Over the last several days, I have focused my invitations on this niche market of mine: the construction industry, especially women owners and project managers. As a result, I’ve been getting more and more excited about serving this segment of the business community! My experience gives me a unique understanding of their stressors, and I am passionate about helping people do what they love, and are good at, without paying such a high price for their success – a pretty great combination. I’ve never been a big fan of niche marketing, but I’m getting a taste of the energy and momentum that can build, and I am changing my mind!

    Patty @ Life by Design. biz

  • Dr. Lorrie Lauer
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 7:54 PM

    I invited a neighbor today. He said he really didn’t need it. His life is how he wants it. Maybe I can get some referrals.

    Completed a introductory session today from a referral. She is awesome and really needs and wants a coach. She is a single parent of two and didn’t have the money. I did what David taught us on one of the calls and asked what she would be able to pay. She said $50 a session and signed up for 2 sessions in December. I feel like I can really help her and feel comfortable lowering my fee. She is also going to send me referrals. I think it is a win for both of us.

  • Bob Cox
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 6:06 PM

    Hi gang:

    Today I invited Lawrence C. another insurance person I knew several years ago.

    Bob

  • Wendy
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 2:02 PM

    I think I forgot to mention that yesterday I got a call back from A, the referral who I’d left a message for Monday, and I offered and we scheduled a call for Friday.

    I’ve been unfocused since the conference, due to busy-ness, catching up on sleep, and now dealing with the sick kitty. I’m going to go out and get a walk and use the rest of the afternoon to regain my focus and follow up on some business actions, including invitations to a few from the conference who expressed interest but didn’t schedule.

    I’ll catch up on my stats soon, I promise!

  • jerry
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 8:24 AM

    Thanks for all you support
    Thank you Dr. Lorrie and Tina
    I have enjoyed how at the end of our 30 days the writings are more detailed
    and open. I can feel the habit of reporting in growing and getting easier.
    I have found on a couple of occasions that at the end of a work day I was
    concerned that i was not meeting my goals and push to accomplish it.
    Before, I would of pushed it off to another day.
    I learned a lot from the writings of so many of you, thanks.

    Today I had an early phone intro session with Carter.
    We set a coaching session for Friday.

    Jerry

  • Tina @ InnerDelight
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 7:44 AM

    Today I have a session with Or and invited Paula for tomorrow.
    I also have a session with Debbie tomorrow.
    This evening I am going out so will undoubtedly be inviting a few more people, just to stay in the flow:-) Although they will have to wait until the new year to be scheduled in…
    I had a session scheduled last weekend with Ruben but we were unable to connect,amazing how the phone lines and skype were on strike, or so it seemed. But he
    emailed me to set up a date in the new year and is very keen to connect.
    It is so wonderful to be doing what I love and make a difference, just like everyone else here!
    many blessings,
    Tina

  • Wendy
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 5:45 AM

    W 11/19:

    Three intro calls yesterday (two from the conference, one with my co-workshop leader who I invited as a colleague more than a prospect).

    In the recent past I’ve done *really* well with these calls. During this challenge, no one has any freakin’ money. I’ve been pre-qualifying about money, in my prep e-mail and my confirmation phone call, yet people are still showing up, wanting to hire me, and then unable to afford it. What’s up with that?! I’ve decided to add it to my prep questions, so they actually have to say up front, in writing, yes I’ll be able to do this, or no I won’t. I’m also getting more and more clear I need to offer a membership and lower-cost products, ASAP.

    I have another scheduled for 8:30 this morning, but will need to reschedule, because I have a very sick kitty (and therefore another night of not-full sleep, alas) and need to get her to the vet first thing. Hence I’m updating now so I won’t forget later.

    Please send good vibes / prayers / whatever you can / will / believe for my sweet kitty – she’s been with me a long time and I hope to have her with me for more good years to come. Thanks, and all the best to everyone.

  • Khafayah
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 5:40 AM

    Day 27: I will calcling another friend of mine tonight who has a problem with time management she could sure do with some coaching.

  • Khafayah
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 5:39 AM

    Day 26: I called a friend I met at a course, she did mention in the past that she was not sure whether she needed coaching or a councillor. We had a brief session she was partly convinced that coaching is for her. I will be calling her again this weekend for a full session.

  • Jacleen
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 12:41 AM

    oops, it’s Day 27 today 🙂

  • Jacleen
    · Reply

    Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 12:37 AM

    Day 26: Sent an email to a former kinesiology teacher of mine. She has never had a coaching session to my knowledge and I think is also a bit skeptical. Haven’t heard back yet.

  • jan
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 11:47 PM

    I offered a trial session to a friend of a friend who is in a life transition stage having lost her husband to cancer. She might be interested in coaching herself.

    Did a trial session last night with Nicole who is not currently in a place to invest in coaching. I think I would have preferred to know that up front. I coached her through it, even offering a discounted rate, but bottom line, her priorities are funds for a physcial trainer and saving for a needed car. I subtling pointed out she was choosing those over what she said she wanted in her life. I may loop back around and offer her and her aunt a dual package just for the heck of it.

  • Tina Nies
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 10:04 PM

    Tuesday: It’s so inspiring to read how well everyone is doing on the challenge! I’m motivated to do even better and continue my own challenge when this ends. Today I sent 3 invites to people who had some interest in coaching from previous events. I have a stack of other names that I need to send invites to as well.

  • Patty
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 9:48 PM

    Hello, all! I’ve generated $575 in fees from the 2 new clients I’ve generated so far – it feels so great!

    Meredyth wrote back that she is interested in what I have to offer – very exciting since she is in the heart of my target market. We’ll be scheduling a time to talk in the next day or so.

    Sue S now has a firm date for her sample session and Joel and I are narrowing it down – kind of tough to get our schedules to match, but we are persistent.

    Another celebration is the possibility of contributing a chapter to a book on personal productivity. I am grateful for and thrilled by the opportunities that continue to come my way. It seems that the more generous I am with people (invitations), the more generous the universe is to me. Go figure!

    Today’s invitation goes to Tiffany P, another construction company owner who was at the conference and participated in my presentation. She is warm and friendly, and committed to operating a successful company, and perfectly represents my target market.

    As always, I’ll keep you posted on the results.

    Goodnight,
    Patty @ Life by Design.biz

  • Julie Colbrese
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 8:45 PM

    Did I mention that I got two clients and $1350. in fees?!! I have become the poster girl for this 30 day challenge and have told about a million people about it. The beauty is in the simplicy and the natural competitive natural of people, like me, who don’t consider themselves competitive. I don’t feel competitive w/ all of you–but with myself to do what I said I would do for 30 days. And, I wonder how/if I will continue after the 30 days. In some ways I feel like I have established a health habit and in other way, I am ready for a break from the “pressure.” Interesting….
    Today, I invited Nico. Nico is my real estate agent and I figure as aggressive as THEY are on getting the referrals, at the very least, Nico should listen to my pitch and see if he or someone he knows would like to be a client. I’ll let you know what happens.

  • Dave Heasler
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 8:29 PM

    Spent a few years working in the insurance field a few years ago.
    It occurred to me yesterday that many people in that field could use a life coach.

    Sent out an email to an old friend in the insurance field offering a trial coaching session. Would be a signifcant expansion of my practice.

    Giving it a shot and will see what happens.

  • Dr. Lorrie Lauer
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 8:13 PM

    Jerry, Congratulations!! Great job!

    My invite today went to a referral I received from a friend. Her name is Jill, and is going through some transitions. I left her a message, and will follow up in a few days if I don’t hear back from her.

  • Bob Cox
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 6:52 PM

    Short of time just now, but I did issue today’s invite to Mike K., a contact in the insurance business whose name came through an old friend.

    Bob

  • Mary
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 5:54 PM

    Gave a sample session to Daphne today that went great and she would like to hire me as her coach beginning in January. I then spent several hours combing the list of exhibitors at two Green conferences that are happening in Boston tomorrrow that I plan to attend (assuming this sore throat of mine doesn’t get the better of me). My plan is to just attend the trade shows talking to people in my market and seeing who might like a sample session.

  • Dave Heasler
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 12:26 PM

    Made the contact yesterday but couldn’t get to your website to post.

    Contact yesterday was to a young man I’ve been helping over the past year. He’s needs have changed and it occurred to me the best way to help him now is through coaching.

    Sent out the invitation.

    Heard back from another young man in similar situation today. He is excited about a trial session next Tuesday.

  • Tina @ InnerDelight
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 12:17 PM

    Good on you Jerry! Two in one go:-)
    I finally caught up on my emails today and that feels really good. I had a bit of a backlog to do follow ups and keep up with my regular clients also!
    Had a session with An today and she paid me 250 euro cash for the next month.
    She’ll pay me monthly and is committed to doing at least 6 months.
    Had an invitation to come and teach in Frankfurt next year so we’re getting the details sorted out, finding location etc.
    Tomorrow I have a session with Or.
    So far I have 3 new clients on 6 month programs, 2 of whom have paid upfront and 1 is paying monthly. From these sessions I have also had 1 client for 1 month at 260 GBP,
    and 4 more who came for sessions ,which gave me 760euro, and a few more who are interested.
    Over 3000 euro’s so I am feeling delighted:-)

    Even more than that, are the many amazing connections I have experienced and the breakthroughs people have had, bringing them closer to their own happiness and therefore spreading it into my world! And that was my intention… to have a ripple effect of peace ,joy and happiness and to connect with people all over the world.

    Thank you David, and thank you everyone! It has been a joy reading everyone’s posts and to know we are in this together.

    A few more days… it has been quite a commitment to post every day and to be so involved on a daily basis… I am looking forward to my free weekends again! I had people booked in every day, often more than 1, so it was intense! But definitely worth it:-)

    blessings,

    Tina

  • jerry
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 9:54 AM

    I did two invites this morning one with Greg and one with Matt
    The session was for a business coach and they both read an article in the KC star
    about life coaching and wanted more info.

    After my session I gat a call from my follow up session with George who wanted to
    have a discount for paying one year in advance. Turns out he wanted to propose different discount-he offered instead of my $450 a month an d pay $4500 in advance
    he offered to add another person in his company and pay $7,000 for one year in advance.

    What do you think?
    Yes, Happy Thanksgiving to Coaching I pick up the check this afternoon

    Jerry

  • Elisabeth
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 9:18 AM

    Fell asleep again before being able to update… I think I need to follow Wendy’s example and give myself a break a bit more often.

    Anyway, I called my friend Diana yesterday. We have somehow not talked in several years but have been friends for a very long time. She’s a doctor and so I thought even if she isn’t interested in coaching herself she might be a source of referrals…

    So I asked her and she said thanks but no thanks. She didn’t have time between the kids and all, plus she’s quite happy with the way her life is going right now, but she did say she’ll keep me in mind for referrals.

    Left another message on Michael’s answering machine, telling him that this is the LAST time I”m calling him about this. If he wants a session, he better call ME.

    Today, I’m going to start with the contacting healing professionals project and see how this goes!

    And I finally found a new buddy: Suzanne B. Yay! And we plan to continue for 3 months after the challenge is over, to keep the momentum going and build on it.

    Really looking forward to it.

  • Wendy
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 6:45 AM

    Tu 11/18

    Full day of appointments today, including three intro calls, followed by a gathering at my home this evening, so I don’t expect to have time to update later.

    Did get *lots* of sleep last night, possibly too much, but am beginning to feel better again.

    Details tomorrow.

  • Jacleen
    · Reply

    Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 4:44 AM

    Day 26: It’s a little late in the day (8.42pm) but my invitations today went to two women at the networking event I attended today. One a colour and style consultant because she would make a great referrer or strategic alliance partner, and the other a woman who works in her husband’s business but is looking for another job where she will have female company. Both said yes and I’ll follow up with them tomorrow to schedule dates and times.

  • Danny Freedman
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 11:52 PM

    Today I did a sample session with Simon, it went well, he will let me know if he takes it. I didn’t invite anyone today? I thought I had.. uh oh catch you tomorrow.

  • Julie Colbrese
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 11:32 PM

    WooHooo! I got my second client, Bridget, today AND since she paid online immediately I have already collected $900. for 3 months (3 40-minute coaching sessions/month). SOOOO, I have reached my goal of having two clients and a total of $1,350. in coaching fees IN HAND.
    Today I invited Clay to be a client. Clay was referred to me by a current client. We had a long phone conversation and he subsequently referred me to some of his colleagues via email. Not sure where this will go.

  • Tina Nies
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 11:28 PM

    Monday: I had a great dinner with a potential new roommate (I’m the one looking for a commuter room) and I offered a session to her. She said sure, and we could talk next week about it. Lori is finishing up 2 masters degrees and is not sure if she wants to stay in her current engineering position, start her own business or take a new job, so coaching could be a great tool for her. I think I will also be her new roommate!

  • jan
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 11:09 PM

    I offered a trial session to Claudine whom, as a HR staffer, interacts with lots of people at this California site I’ve mentioned that will be downsizing. She said she would talk to a couple people instead and see if they are interested.

  • Dr. Lorrie Lauer
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 9:39 PM

    I invited Michele today. She works with clients in my niche. She was a little hesitant, said she’d think about it, and get back with me.

  • Mary
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 9:05 PM

    I spoke with my friend, Jane, on the phone, and before I could even offer sample sessions, she offered to get me connected to key folks at Yale who would be using coaches for staff there. It could be a nice referral source, particularly as Yale is doing a lot of sustainability work these days. I also followed up with our friend, Manuel, who is very connected to sustainability folks in Boston, and am hoping to talk with him over the next few days.

  • Bob Cox
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 6:31 PM

    Today’s invitation went to Dave H. and I realized I posted the same guy’s name 2 days in a row (don’t laugh, you’ll be my age one day). Yesterday’s invitation should have said Mike M.

    I got a positive response from a Dr. that I’ve been trying to hook up with for months. He’s a gatekeeper for a medical rehabilitation group that could be an ongoing source of clients. We are scheduled to talk again after Thanksgiving.

    Bob

  • Patty
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 6:11 PM

    Hello, all! Today’s invite goes to another construction company owner, Pam N. Since I spent 18 years in the construction industry, they hold a special place in my heart, and I would love to work with her. Another thing we have in common is being victors over cancer, and another reason her success matters to me.

    Joel D. called today to schedule his session, and I just emailed him some possibilities via http://www.timebridge.com – a truly great, free scheduling service I think I’ve mentioned before.

    I just read the latest Mentor Monthly and started researching where to find my niche market (woman owned construction companies) and found an organization just for them! I found it very interesting that an association I belong to already has an alliance with them, so I will start using that network and create a strategy for reaching them. Small world!

    I, too, would like a way to continue our ongoing support of one another. Ideas??

    Patty @ Life by Design.biz

  • Beth Dargis
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 6:01 PM

    Wendy, I am glad you are getting that self care in today.

    explode your practice I think you got money off if you updated your contact info. For more info on that you can email terri@solutionbox.com

    Keep it up everyone – almost there!

  • Wendy
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 5:46 PM

    M 11/17:

    “Completely results”, I wrote this morning. Can you tell how little sleep I’ve had?

    Okay, I’ve now had a little more sleep, a good walk, a little self care, and a very full afternoon.

    I had two follow-up calls scheduled for today from pending potential clients who’ve already done intro calls – they both missed their calls; I left messages. I also had an e-mail waiting for me from Friday, from a client referring a friend – I called the friend and left a message – will make an invite when I actually talk with her.

    My afternoon was very full, including my two newest clients from the challenge – very satisfying. And a very full week coming up: 3 intro calls tomorrow, 1 Wednesday, 1 Thursday, plus a full slate of clients and projects and conference follow-up around that.

    I’m still too tired to assess my “completely results” from the conference, but I scheduled 5 sessions, and invited at least three more, some of whom are still looking, or said they’d call, plus signed up a bunch to my mailing list.

    I’ll update my numbers as soon as I have time and energy, probably Wednesday. I’m also four or five days behind in reading everyone else’s posts, which have been so valuable to me – I’ll catch up soon, I promise!

    I am *so* looking forward to a blissful nice long full night’s sleep in my own bed tonight!

  • Suzanne B.
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 11:53 AM

    While at a “clutter” seminar, I spoke with Barb, at the new upscale women’s paint store in Kirkland. She said, “Yes” to a comp intro before I could get the words out of my mouth! We’re set up for tomorrow eve at 8 PM.

    DAVID: I feel like I’ve got this “warm invitation” down well. I can’t believe how comfortable I am with it and how effective it is at getting intro sessions.
    I would like to be invited to a similar challenge where the focus is ALL on the intro session and actually signing people up and retaining clients (maybe that’s two separate challenges?) Even with the 3 clients I’ve signed up, the progression from “interested” to “client” & proceeding on is still very awkward and insecure on my part.

    I can’t believe we’ve only 4 days left. I will miss this interaction VERY MUCH! (Hm m m. Could we somehow keep going? Perhaps along the line I mention above?)

  • Tina @ InnerDelight
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 11:20 AM

    I had a session with Bernardine today, who’s looking for a partner in her life. She was at work and her boss came in, so she was a bit thrown off balance, but at the end she wanted information on the coaching structure so we’ll see. I am not sure if she is ready to step outside her comfort zone but it was fun to connect:-)
    I had a very busy week and am having a bit of a challenge to keep up with all the extra emails and follow up but am taking tomorrow to catch up!
    I have a session with An tomorrow.
    Also, SJ called me yesterday, just after I posted she had not shown up and we still managed to have a session.
    blessings,

    Tina

  • jerry
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 8:41 AM

    Thank you Patty for your ideas on long term client discount. I am meeting with him today.

    I invited Phil to a intro session on business coaching. He came from referral from another business client. The coaching field in credit coaching is booming.
    I am working with banks and borrowers in trouble. See Consumer Credit Coaching.com it has added a lot of business in the last 60 days.

    jerry

  • Wendy
    · Reply

    Monday, November 17, 2008 at 7:19 AM

    Su 11/16:

    Yikes – I hope this still counts! My plan was to post when I got home from the conference Sunday afternoon, but I ended up staying up all night with friends at the conference and never actually got to sleep at all, and then drove home early (because I have appointments today – oy!). So in my world it’s still the end of the day Sunday. I’m going to get a little sleep after my morning appointments and then post my completely results “tomorrow”, that is, later Sunday.

    My stuff is still packed away, but I know I booked at least one more intro call on Saturday in the exhibit hall, and one on Sunday, for a total of five – possibly more. I’m not thinking very clearly right at this moment! All but one are for this week, so could still result in income during the challenge.

    Okay, more caffeine to get me through the morning, then a little sleep, then a really good night’s sleep overnight will be a Really Good Thing.

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