The birth who? Yes, you read that caption correctly, the BIRTH JUICE. As a doula, understand it's not just good enough to be an excellent doula, to provide exceptional services, or be the eyes, ears, and shoulders for your client. In order to be noticed in the Doula World, you have to have the birth juice?
What is the birth juice you ask? In business terms, it's your niche! What the hell do you do that makes you unique, shine brighter, or stand out amongst your doula colleagues? Does this niche cater to the needs of your target or ideal customer?! The answer to this question is your birth juice.
So how do you find your birth juice? Find your niche by identifying and focusing on a specific area or population within the broader doula field. Here are some steps you can take to find a niche:
Identify your interests and passions: Consider the aspects of doula work that you are most passionate about. It could be supporting home births, working with teen mothers, helping women with high-risk pregnancies, or providing postpartum care.
Assess your skills and experience: Evaluate your skills, knowledge, and previous experiences that can be valuable in a specific niche. For example, if you have a background in breastfeeding support, you may specialize as a lactation doula.
Research the market: Explore the local and broader market to understand the demand for various doula services. Look for gaps or underserved areas where you can potentially offer specialized support.
Identify target clients: Determine the specific population or group you want to work with. This could be based on factors such as age, cultural background, socioeconomic status, or specific needs.
Specialize in additional training: Consider pursuing additional training or certifications related to your chosen niche. This can enhance your expertise and credibility in that specific area.
Network and collaborate: Connect with other birth professionals, healthcare providers, and organizations in your niche. Collaborating with like-minded professionals can help you gain visibility and referrals.
Market your services: Develop a marketing strategy that highlights your specialization and expertise. Create a compelling message that communicates the benefits of working with a doula in your niche.
Remember that finding a niche doesn't necessarily mean excluding other potential clients or services. It's about establishing yourself as an expert in a specific area, which can help attract clients who resonate with your specialized skills and knowledge. As you gain experience and build a reputation in your niche, you may find yourself becoming a go-to doula for that particular population or area of focus.