Coaching Is A Considered Investment

It’s no secret, 1:1 Coaching & Mentoring Programmes are a considered investment. Something you think twice about to ensure you’ll get value from that chosen path, with that particular coach, at that point in time.

I don’t shy away from talking about that in my business because I know it’s a reflection of the value I offer to my clients. I bring decades of leadership experience and know-how, along with the skills and tool-kit of a practiced mentor, accredited coach, and qualified health professional. And I care about what I do. Really care.

If you want to know more about my background and qualifications, take a peek here.

 

In Summary

The changes I’m making are to introduce an affordable coaching approach for private clients who are a perfect match for coaching with me, who truly and genuinely can’t afford my prices, and where we agree a unique and personalised coaching and pricing model that means they can access my support and we can do some great work together.

Let me tell you more about how I’ve got here and what’s involved.

 

Transparent Pricing

For my individual / private clients (i.e. those paying from their own pocket) my prices are clearly published on my website. I don’t like it if I have to get on the phone with someone to find out their prices – so I don’t expect you to either.

I stand behind my pricing and can charge it with a clear conscience, knowing that I give great value.

But I also know that it isn’t affordable for everyone. I’ve had several conversations this year about it. It’s been on my mind and I’ve been considering how to address it.

 

My Options

In essence, I’ve considered four different options:

• Do nothing – totally reasonable. I have a living to make and bills to pay too.
• Reduce my prices for all – de-valuing myself doesn’t feel right or practical.
• Offer pro bono coaching – when I’ve done this in the past, something hasn’t quite worked.
• Affordable coaching option – hmm interesting, how can I make that work?

And so, from a musing on a morning walk to something that seems workable by the evening, here it is.

 

What Do I Mean (And Not Mean) By Affordable Coaching?

I’m being careful how I write this because I know it can be triggering and we all have a different perceptions about affordability. I’m going to be straightforward and direct for the purpose of clarity – not to be controversial or to offend.

 

What I Don’t Mean

Let me start by ruling out what I don’t mean here. This is not a ‘pay what you think it’s worth’ scheme.

Affordability vs Choice

Some people can afford my services, but choose not to. Meaning they have the disposable income, but they make the choice not to spend it on coaching with me. Of course, that’s perfectly OK. Everyone’s choice is their own and I never want anyone to have buyer’s remorse when they spend with me.

But what it also means is that it’s not then appropriate to ask me to reduce my prices to suit this choice.

Affordability vs Perceived Value

Some people don’t think coaching in general, or coaching with me, is worth it. They have the disposable income, but they don’t believe the value they’ll get from coaching with me is worth the price tag. And that’s OK too. I won’t ever twist someone’s arm, or beg to be valued sufficiently.

I believe in my value. I won’t reduce my prices because someone happens to think I’m not worth it. It simply means we’re not suited.

 

What I Do Mean. This is The Good Stuff!

First things first, let me say that I don’t have every detail worked out, but I’m just going to get started, and then see where it takes me.

Helping The Right People

I am doing my best to avoid patronising, or coming across like I’m speaking from a place of privilege handing out favours. I may be unintentionally clumsy and get it wrong. Please read this knowing my intention is positive.

For me, in my business, this is about finding a way to help those people who genuinely want to work with me, whom I’m really confident I can help, who can’t afford my published prices, but can afford something, and are willing to talk to me about that.

Considered, Limited & My Discretion

It will be a considered process, ensuring it’s right for both parties. We’ll need to have an open discussion. That might feel a little awkward, but it’s a small concession for what it could lead to for both of us.

It will be a limited offer in its availability and I’ll manage that as I go. I need to ensure an appropriate balance across all of the various aspects of my work.

It will be my discretion as to whether my affordable coaching approach is right for the person I’m talking to. That decision will always remain mine.

And whilst I can’t make promises that everyone who wants this will get access, I can provide assurance that everyone interested will be treated with respect and compassion.

Based On Respect & Trust

Some people have challenged my thinking on this, concerned that people will take advantage, lie to get a reduced rate, or won’t take it seriously. I know there’s risk, but I like to think differently and hope this attracts people with a similar values set, where trust and respect are really important.

Plus … (a) my intuition is pretty solid, and (b) I was a Director of Collections for many years and have more affordability conversations than you can imagine!

 

 

Which Services Are Included?

Included are all services for individuals / private clients (excluding the coaching taster experience), where you are paying for coaching yourself. You can see the service descriptions here.

It doesn’t apply to organisational services or any company-funded work.

Getting Started

If you’re interested in this, step 1 is to review my services and prices so you know what my normal prices are. It’s important you have that information. Step 2 is to email me to share some information about yourself, and the service you are interested in. That’s it. We’ll take it from there.

Email me at coach@deborahbulcock.com

It’s Not Entirely Selfless

Whilst I’d love to say this is an entirely selfless act, that wouldn’t be truthful. There are also benefits for me. I get to try out a new business model and see if I can make it work. I get to expand my coaching work and it’s where a huge amount of my professional fulfilment comes from. I will learn an awful lot. And I suspect it will feel good if it works!

I’m a big believer in any relationship being a win for all.

Let’s See Where It Takes Us

So that’s it. My venture into an evolved business where I offer an option of affordable coaching.

Don’t hesitate in coming forward if this feels right for you.