You decided to take your passion for wellness and turn it into an endeavor that will enrich others—congrats on taking that major step!
For many people, becoming a wellness consultant is a robust part-time opportunity that sometimes pairs with work in nutrition, fitness, or specialized training. Others might be waiting to leave a non-related full-time job and make wellness a career, but create a bridge by being a consultant part-time.
No matter what your situation, focusing on building a strong business is crucial for creating sustainable, long-term success. Here are seven ways you can develop that foundation:
1. Set Specific Goals
Every wellness consultant will have unique goals, and it helps to write them down before you get started, as well as along the way. Maybe there’s a certain revenue amount you want to hit or a specific number of clients. Maybe you’d like to make the consulting business your full-time career within the next two years. Take time to envision what the big benchmark would be for you.
2. Line Up Resources
You may need your own office space, reliable transportation, a more flexible work schedule, increased help with housework, a business mentor, or business loan funds. You might even need all of these. Write down what you need to make your business run efficiently and then begin figuring out how to put these resources in place.
3. Get the Word Out
Begin telling people that you’re a wellness consultant and letting them know that you’re open for appointments. Create a professional-looking website, put details on your LinkedIn profile, even hang flyers in your neighborhood if that’s what will drive word of mouth. Brand recognition is built through repetition, and that means getting your name into as many places as possible.
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4. Use Social Media
Promote your services on social media, but also use forums like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to set yourself up as an expert. Make intelligent comments about current wellness trends, share news stories in the field, and keep making online connections. You’ll be seen as a go-to resource of information.
5. Partner with Local Businesses
Wellness campaigns at companies are very hot right now and not likely to fizzle out anytime soon. But many businesses can’t afford to hire a full-time wellness coach, so they’re looking for professionals like you who can lead campaigns. Put together a detailed package of what you would offer, including cost per employee, and visit local companies with the proposal.
6. Connect with Gyms
Similar to businesses, gyms are always looking to increase membership with unique offerings. You could offer to host workshops on wellness topics, either for a per-member fee or even for free, as long as you can pitch your services as part of the presentation. Members will get a glimpse of your expertise in a “try before you buy” way, and they’ll be more likely to sign up for private sessions with you.
7. Consider More Training
Education can give you more structure in terms of keeping up with the latest trends, and some programs also include business expertise so that you can strengthen your consulting work. Consider choosing a certification or credential program that’s accredited, because that means it meets high standards and provides more legitimacy to clients.
To learn more about AFPA’s certifications—including specialty credentials—check out our programs.
