Social media can be a great tool for growing your doula business, but it’s not the only way—or even the best way—to get clients. If scrolling, posting, and engaging online isn’t your thing, don’t worry. Plenty of doulas successfully build thriving practices without relying on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.

Here are five proven strategies to attract doula clients without social media:

1. Leverage Word-of-Mouth Marketing

The most powerful marketing tool you have is the experience you provide to your clients. Happy clients naturally spread the word, and personal recommendations carry more weight than any social media post.

How to make it work:

 

• • At the end of every birth or postpartum contract, ask for referrals. A simple “Do you know anyone who could benefit from doula support?” can open doors.

• • Offer referral incentives (if you choose). A small thank-you gift or discount on future services can encourage past clients to send people your way.

• • Stay connected! Send past clients a friendly check-in email a few months later, letting them know you’re available if they have friends or family in need.

2. Network with Local Birth Professionals

Doctors, midwives, chiropractors, lactation consultants, childbirth educators, and prenatal yoga instructors all work with expectant families. Building strong professional relationships can help you get referrals from those already supporting your ideal clients.

How to make it work:

 

• • Attend local birth-related events, such as breastfeeding meetups or hospital tours, to introduce yourself and connect with providers.

• • Set up short coffee chats with other birth professionals to learn about their work and share how doulas can complement their services.

• • Offer to give a free presentation about doula care at a birth center, OB office, or lactation clinic. Educating providers makes them more likely to refer you.

3. Optimize Your Website for Local Searches

If people can’t find you online outside of social media, they may assume you don’t exist. Your website is your digital storefront—make sure it’s set up to attract and convert potential clients.

How to make it work:

 

• • Use SEO (Search Engine Optimization) to ensure your website appears when someone searches for “doula near me” or “birth doula in [your city].” This includes having clear service pages, using location-based keywords, and maintaining a blog with useful content.

• • Claim your Google Business Profile so you show up in local searches. This makes it easier for potential clients to find you and read your reviews.

• • Keep your contact information clear and easy to access. Make sure potential clients can book a free consultation directly from your site.

4. Get Involved in Your Community

Becoming a visible and trusted presence in your local community can lead to more clients than any social media post. Parents prefer to work with someone they know—or someone their friend knows.

How to make it work:

 

• • Attend or sponsor local events where expectant parents gather, such as baby fairs, farmers’ markets, or parenting workshops.

• • Partner with libraries, community centers, or hospitals to offer free “Ask a Doula” sessions or prenatal classes.

• • Join local parenting groups (in person or through email lists) where you can organically share your knowledge and expertise.

5. Ask for and Showcase Client Testimonials

People trust reviews and testimonials when making decisions about hiring a doula. If you’re not using social media, having strong testimonials on your website, Google Business Profile, and printed materials is even more important.

How to make it work:

 

• • After each client experience, send a follow-up email asking for a review. Keep it simple: “I’d love to hear about your experience! If you’re comfortable, could you share a few words about working with me?”

• • Display testimonials prominently on your website, in your email signature, and on any flyers or brochures.

• • If a client gives you permission, share a short birth story (without identifying details) to illustrate how your support made a difference.

You Don’t Need Social Media to Get Doula Clients

While social media can be a helpful tool, it’s not the only—or best—way to build your doula business. By focusing on relationships, community involvement, and making it easy for potential clients to find you, you can grow your practice in a way that feels natural and sustainable.

Want more guidance on growing your doula business? Join Doula Office Hours for expert support, marketing strategies, and a community of doulas just like you.