What are the best ways to build trust with clients who have had negative experiences with vocal coaches?

1 Listen empathetically

The first step to building trust is to listen empathetically to your clients. Ask them about their goals, challenges, and expectations. Show genuine interest and curiosity in their stories and feelings. Avoid judging, interrupting, or imposing your own opinions. Validate their emotions and acknowledge their difficulties. By listening empathetically, you can create a safe and supportive space for your clients to express themselves and feel heard.

2 Be transparent and honest

The second step to building trust is to be transparent and honest with your clients. Explain your coaching approach, methods, and philosophy. Share your credentials, experience, and testimonials. Clarify your fees, policies, and expectations. Answer any questions or concerns they may have. Don't make unrealistic promises or guarantees. By being transparent and honest, you can establish your credibility and professionalism as a vocal coach.

3 Collaborate and customize

The third step to building trust is to collaborate and customize your coaching sessions. Involve your clients in the planning and decision-making process. Ask for their feedback and preferences. Adapt your coaching style, pace, and techniques to their needs, goals, and learning styles. Don't force them to do anything they are not comfortable with. Give them choices and options. By collaborating and customizing, you can show respect and appreciation for your clients as unique individuals.

4 Encourage and empower

The fourth step to building trust is to encourage and empower your clients. Praise their efforts, progress, and achievements. Celebrate their successes and milestones. Provide constructive and specific feedback. Help them identify and overcome their challenges. Motivate them to keep practicing and improving. Boost their confidence and self-esteem. By encouraging and empowering, you can inspire and nurture your clients' passion and potential.

5 Communicate and follow up

The fifth step to building trust is to communicate and follow up with your clients. Stay in touch with them between sessions. Send them reminders, resources, and tips. Check on their well-being and satisfaction. Ask for their input and suggestions. Address any issues or complaints promptly and professionally. Show that you care about their results and experience. By communicating and following up, you can maintain and strengthen your relationship with your clients.

6 Be yourself and have fun

The sixth and final step to building trust is to be yourself and have fun with your clients. Show your personality, humor, and enthusiasm. Share your stories, insights, and passions. Connect with them on a personal level. Make them feel comfortable and relaxed. Create a positive and enjoyable atmosphere. By being yourself and having fun, you can make your clients feel like friends and partners in their vocal journey.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?