While I'm very grateful for the Internet teach Holistic Practitioners how to have an online web presence (on the internet) to increase visibility, make connections with potential clients and other professionals that will refer to you, I know there's LOADS of business right in your own community.

There are tons of potential clients all around you in your neighborhood, at the store or at your place of worship, your place of exercise, your children's school, etc. Years ago in my first practices I never had a website, social media did not exist and I didn't even have an e-mail address. I built a successful practice by connecting with people in my daily life.

Over the years after talking to many, many people (friends, family and strangers, etc.) about what I did I learned how to make a brief connection and how to tell them how they can get more information to working with me.

I've noticed that there is an awful lot of Practitioners having conversations with people who say that they're interested in having a session or treatment but the person never follows through. Or the Holistic Practitioner is so passionate about what they do they're willing to talk to anybody and everybody about their modality. Some spend time getting into heated arguments with people who are skeptical about alternative modalities.

I also have my private clients tell me that they do not want to appear pushy or desperate for clients and never takes a guiding role in the conversation, so it ends with no conclusion, and often no client or patient calling you!

The challenge with these situations is that over time they can lead to burnout, frustration and disillusionment. So I want to share some simple tools that you shouldn't leave your home without. These will help you make connections and gain clients.

1. Diplomacy
I really encourage you to come across as a diplomat to alternative modalities rather than a defender. There's nothing wrong with having your opinion, and there's nothing wrong with being passionate. I certainly have both! But if you're coming across as too zealous and not listening to others opinions or even putting down modalities such as conventional medicine, you possibly are turning off potential clients. Clients who would be open to have a session or treatment because they want help but are possibly scared if you come across too fanatical.

Remember everybody is tuned into the radio station "WIIFM: what's in it for me?" so appeal to this part. Speak about the advantages to your modality or treatment or  the benefits that acupuncture or homeopathy or EFT gives.

2. Be A Busy Professional
I highly recommend you approach your conversations especially with people in your community as a busy professional. Remember that people can sense your energy. I want you to come across as if successful, busy Practitioner. So when people are asking questions or making comments keep your answers brief and concise.  A busy Practitioner does not have an hour in the grocery store to answer questions. Let them know you are happy to answer their questions and see how you can help, let them know how they can book a free consultation with you in your office or on the phone.

Never, never try to convince someone to work with you or have a session or treatment with you. This reeks of desperation and neediness. How would you feel if a dentist is begging you to have a root canal with them? You probably would feel uncomfortable. You can still be gracious, courteous and caring while having the demeanor of a successful professional.

3. Your Marketing Message
It's crucial you learn how to answer the question "so what do you do?" Many practitioners fall into the trap of explaining their modality or what they do with language that people don't understand. The problem with this is that a confused mind rarely asked for more information and never asks for a business card! Learn how to explain what you do by focusing on the results you provide or what your clients and patients receive from working with you.

I call this your "Marketing Message" and once you've crafted it, it's worth it's weight in gold! Because you can say it anybody and instead of eyes glazing over listeners will ask "Oh, I get it...how can I work with you?" or "I know someone who could use your help, can I get your business card?" Which brings us to...

4. Your Business Card
As you start to connect with people in your community and learn how to share your magnetic message, the next question that he should be asked is "can I get more information?" or "how do I work with you?

That is the moment you hand them your business card to let them know of your services. Remember first impressions count, you shouldn't be scribbling your phone number on a napkin and handing it to the person. Your business card doesn't have to be complicated, fancy or expensive. But it does have to standout, get noticed and share crucial information for this potential client to actually follow through and pickup the phone to work with you. If you aren't sure what to put on your biz card, check out my class where I show you exactly how to create one.

Make sure you always have this 4 tools with you... you never know who you'll run into. And when you do you'll be polished and professional. and probably gained another client!

Leave your comments- thanks!

(c) 2010 AnaMaria Herrera

About the author: AnaMaria Herrera, Online Marketer and Director of Practice Building Institute publishes 'Practice Building Success' teaching Holistic Practitioners how to get clients and build their practice. For a f*ree audio and resources go to: http://www.PracticeBuildingInstitute.com