In the unpredictable dance of birth work, doulas often find themselves in the position of receiving last-minute client requests. While this can be a source of anxiety, it also offers a chance to demonstrate flexibility, resourcefulness, and the ability to provide exceptional care under pressure. In this focused guide, we’ll delve into strategies for managing and excelling when last-minute clients come calling.
The Call Comes In
Imagine the scenario: your phone rings, and on the other end is a soon-to-be parent in urgent need of a doula. They’ve heard of your expertise, or maybe they found you through a quick search, and their baby is coming in the next few weeks. Here’s your guide to turning that call into a success story—for both you and the family.
(How to be sure it’s not a scam.)
Assess and Accept
Before you commit, take a quick personal inventory:
- Availability: Do you have the time to provide the care they need? Do you have other clients that you have previously committed to work with? Do you have backup?
- Energy: Are you in the right headspace to fully support another birth? Or was this a break that you needed?
- Preparedness: Is your doula bag packed and ready?
If all systems are go, then it’s time to embrace the opportunity.
Rapid Rapport Building
You might have less time to get to know your client, so efficient rapport building is crucial:
- Active Listening: Over the phone or in person, give your full attention to understand their needs and fears. You may need to do a prenatal visit over the phone or zoom – and sometimes the night before.
- Immediate Support: Offer calming words, breathing techniques, or any advice they may need right away.
Negotiating Terms Quickly
Even last-minute, the business side can’t be ignored:
- Transparent Fees: Clearly communicate any charges for services. Typically I do not discount my fees just because it’s last minute. Sometimes these births are more difficult because I do not know the clients as well as if we had had months to prepare. Get paid before you go.
- Contracts: Have a short-form contract ready to go, covering the essentials without overwhelming the client. Being able to do this electronically is a must for last minute clients.
During the Birth: Flexibility Is Key
With the stage set, you arrive at the birth:
- Adaptability: Be ready to jump into the birth plan (or lack thereof) and offer guidance and support. If you have time before the birth, helping with their birth plan can be helpful or seeing what they may already have in place.
- Calm Under Pressure: Your ability to remain composed reassures the client and helps you think on your feet.
Post-Birth: The Follow-Up
After the birth, your role in this whirlwind experience is still crucial:
- Debriefing: Offer a listening ear if they need to talk through the birth experience as you would any client.
- Resources: Provide postpartum resources they may not have had time to research. Bring this up prenatally if there is time as well.
The Ripple Effect: Business Growth Through Last-Minute Clients
These unexpected scenarios can become powerful testimonials:
- Ask for Reviews: As with any birth, if your client was satisfied with your service, ask them to share their experience online.
- Networking: Use these births as opportunities to connect with other birth professionals who witnessed your adaptability. Sometimes this opportunity has come from a provider, be sure to thank that provider for the opportunity.
Final Thoughts: Last-Minute Doesn’t Mean Last Resort
Last-minute clients can be a testament to your professionalism and ability to provide quality care under any circumstances. With each successful last-minute engagement, you not only expand your practice but also showcase the true spirit of doula work—being a steadfast presence in the transformative journey of birth.
Share Your Stories
Have you had a last-minute client success? Join our community and share your story. Your experiences could light the way for fellow doulas navigating this exciting and challenging aspect of our work.
