6 Ways to Build Your Coaching Network Offline

There are many approaches a coach can apply to expand their coaching network. In addition to gaining online visibility and creating content for different digital channels, there’s no better promotion than that earned through word-of-mouth and referrals. As a Certified Behavioral Consultant, you may and must network within the community and establish yourself amongst people who may already be familiar with your previous career, reputation, or history. Depending on your personality style and your internal passions, this type of awareness is up for interpretation.

Here are 6 ways you can establish your credibility locally "offline" to build your network and coaching business:

1. Start a class to meet new people, who want to learn from you

Influential "I" and Steady "S" type personality coaches are excellent in this capacity. These styles are great at working with and motivating others while proving as a source of knowledge to business owners. Your students will either become clients or hire you to consult within their companies. Some people charge for their classes, while others provide introductory courses free of charge.

2. Take on pro-bono work with a non-profit

Volunteering your time with local and national non-profit organizations is beneficial at any level of the hierarchy, and within any niche or any community in which you feel most comfortable. "D" Styles (for example) could lend their services to an organization's executive board, many of which are well-connected in other industries and will pass your name along out of gratitude for the services you provide.

3. Work with small businesses

Provide your services to the Small Business Administration (SBA) or perhaps the local Chamber of Commerce. Before aiming to connect with huge companies, network with new or small business owners who could use your services right now. The C-type personality coach, for example, can support local small businesses by providing introductory training and consultation to new hires. Not only will you earn their respect, but you will become the most trusted advisor they know. Years down the road, you will still be earning referrals for a business you helped take from zero to a few million dollars – just by providing a little insight and a whole lot of expertise.

4. Join a professional association

Professional associations work just as well as online networks do. There are a number of international professional coaching associations, as well as recognized coaching teams, in which you can get involved. Being part of a network can translate into being part of a larger community. You will find many opportunities to promote your business and/or cross-promote with others just by being connected. You will earn clout and credibility, ultimately earning a more solid reputation among core audiences, and depending on the organization – you just may become the go-to in your specific field or area of expertise.

5. Support a charity or a cause

No matter your personality type, support a local charity or cause that you believe in. By supporting others in your community, they will support you back and you will gain public visibility for doing so. You can network while showing you care for your community by offering professional support along the way. You will earn social acceptance and your reputation will be reflective of the activities in which you engage. Essentially, you want to build a pipeline while building trust and credibility. Showcasing your credentials will help you do so, and your local community is a great place to start.

6. Develop your professional credibility with accreditation

Another way to build credibility is by gaining accreditation towards your coaching credentials from professional institutions such as PeopleKeys. PeopleKeys not only offers accredited certification in DISC behavioral analysis, but it also offers a variety of online continuing education courses. You can earn certificates of completion to include on your resume or share on LinkedIn or your website to establish your credibility within the professional community. If you’re interested in learning more about how PeopleKey can help you reach your goals, don’t hesitate to check out all of our continuing education and training courses today!