One of the most effective ways to grow your client base is by educating your community about doulas—what they do, the value they provide, and how to find them. The more people know about doulas, the more likely they are to consider hiring one.

Some of this awareness happens organically through casual conversations. Think of all the people you meet—your plumber, the barista at your favorite coffee shop, or someone standing next to you in line at the grocery store. These one-on-one interactions are meaningful but can be time-intensive, and they don’t always lead to immediate results.

To make a bigger impact, consider reaching larger groups at once. This can look like:

• Speaking to Childbirth Education Classes: Offer a short talk on what doulas do and how they can support birthing families.
• Presenting to Civic Groups or Community Organizations: Share the benefits of having a doula and how to connect with local professionals.
• Hosting Your Own Events: Plan an event tailored to your audience, such as a workshop or Q&A session.
• Collaborating with Libraries: Many libraries welcome community-based programs. Host a presentation or workshop that appeals to a wide audience.

When hosting your own events, consider topics that draw in a broader audience. Instead of a presentation titled “What Is a Doula?”, which might lead people to self-select out based on myths or misconceptions about doulas, try offering something more universal. For example:

• “5 Ways to Have an Easier Labor”: This appeals to anyone preparing for childbirth. As you go through your tips, you can weave in your expertise as a doula and include hiring a doula as one of the recommendations.
• “Preparing for Postpartum Recovery”: A topic that resonates with anyone expecting a baby, showcasing your expertise in both birth and postpartum support.

These types of events not only attract a wider audience but also position you as an expert in your field. You’re giving people actionable advice while gently introducing the idea of hiring a doula as a natural part of their journey.

The Bigger Picture

It’s also important to remember that not every event will directly translate into clients for you—and that’s okay. You might meet someone who ultimately hires another doula in your area. That’s still a win for the doula profession as a whole. When more families hire doulas, it creates greater awareness and demand, which benefits everyone in the field, including you.

As the saying goes, a rising tide lifts all boats. Building awareness about doulas creates a ripple effect, increasing trust in our work and opening doors for more opportunities over time—even if they don’t happen immediately.

Focus on building connections and fostering curiosity about doulas in your community. Every interaction plants a seed, and over time, those seeds grow into a thriving client base.