If you are a therapist, counselor, or an alternative or complementary health practitioner (naturopath, homeopathetic doctor, massage therapist, body worker, etc.), in all likelihood, you are not only uninformed about effective marketing methods, but you are also likely to have some negative feelings about self promotion and marketing. When it comes to marketing a practice, knowing how to market effectively is essential. However, all the marketing knowledge in the world wont be of use to you if your resistances and fears get in the way of marketing. The most common resistances that helping and healing professionals have about marketing are outlined below. Fear of being rejected You may be concerned you are not skilled enough to attract clients for your private practice. Worries that people will be disapproving Perhaps you are concerned that if you market your practice, peers and potential clients might judge you or the services you offer. Fear of failing If you fear failure, you might avoid taking the risks necessary to succeed at marketing. Fear of being seen as aggressive This is a widespread fear that stems largely from of the misconception that marketing is about intruding upon others. Concerns about being seen as self-serving This fear stems in large part from the idea within the healing professions that your goal is to be there to fulfill your clients needs and not your own. In addition, you might believe that marketing your services means that you are "bragging." Fear of lacking in knowledge and skills to market a practice sucessfully Obviously if you have never studied marketing, you may have concerns about your ability to do so effectively. Fears of being successful You could fear success because of a belief that you are undeserving of it. Perhaps you also fear that if you do succeed in private practice, your life will be different and you might not like the change that occurs. If you identify with any of the above resistances and fears and want to overcome them, read part 2 of this article, "Overcoming Resistances to Marketing a Practice." Juliet Austin, 2004 |
