Health Journal Online

Tag: Building

  • Dr. Stephanie Efua Sobotie On Breaking Barriers And Building Sustainable Solutions

    Dr. Stephanie Efua Sobotie On Breaking Barriers And Building Sustainable Solutions

    Breaking down barriers in women’s healthcare remains a critical challenge in modern medicine, particularly in underserved communities. While urban centres often have multiple healthcare options, rural areas still need to improve their access to specialized medical care, especially in obstetrics and women’s health.

    The Alberta College of Family Physicians recently highlighted achievements in developing sustainable healthcare solutions with their Recognition of Excellence award, emphasizing the importance of effective approaches in bridging these healthcare gaps.

    Dr. Stephanie Efua Sobotie, recipient of this recognition, brings unique experience in developing healthcare solutions across diverse settings. From responding to critical needs in Ghana’s Kuntanase Government Hospital, where she established a blood bank after personally donating blood to save a patient’s life, to helping develop the obstetric program in Kindersley, Saskatchewan, her work demonstrates the impact of targeted healthcare initiatives.

    Now, as a family physician with a Certificate of Added Competence in obstetric surgical skills at Bow Trail Medical Clinic in Calgary and a clinical lecturer at the Cumming School of Medicine, she continues to address healthcare accessibility challenges. We sat down with Dr. Sobotie to explore what it takes to create compelling healthcare solutions and how connecting rural and urban healthcare experiences can improve medical care delivery.



    Image Courtesy of Dr. Stephanie Efua Sobotie


    Dr. Sobotie, as the first female physician in your family, what does ‘redefining women’s healthcare’ mean to you?

    When I consider redefining women’s healthcare, I envision creating a truly accessible system that addresses unique medical needs that have been historically overlooked. This vision was sparked early in my life when I noticed I could be the first woman physician in my family.

    At Bow Trail Medical Clinic in Calgary, we’ve built a women’s clinic that goes beyond primary care to address comprehensive health concerns throughout every life stage. But meaningful change requires reaching underserved communities, too. In Ghana’s Kuntanase Government Hospital, we established a program that successfully reduced maternal mortality rates in the Ashanti region. This work continued in Canada, where we’ve focused on bringing essential services to areas with limited healthcare access.

    Redefining healthcare also means preparing future generations of medical professionals. Through my role at the Cumming School of Medicine, I work to ensure that tomorrow’s healthcare providers understand the importance of advocating for women’s health needs and creating sustainable, accessible care systems.

    From Ghana to Canada, you’ve seen various challenges in medicine. In your opinion, what obstacles still exist for women in healthcare – both for doctors and patients?

    Based on my experience working across different healthcare systems, I’ve observed that access to specialized care remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This became evident during my time at Kuntanase Government Hospital, where we faced critical resource limitations – like not having a blood bank, which could have devastating consequences for women requiring emergency care.

    There are still barriers for women physicians in specific specialized fields. While I initially wanted to specialize in Trauma and orthopaedic surgery, my journey led me to family medicine, where I could make the most significant impact. However, I obtained additional qualifications, like my Certificate of Added Competence in obstetric surgical skills, to provide comprehensive care, especially in underserved areas.

    From my current perspective at the women’s clinic in Calgary, I see how these challenges manifest differently but persist even in well-resourced settings. Mental health support accessibility, for instance, remains a critical issue.

    I’ve witnessed firsthand how delays in accessing mental health services can have severe consequences for patients. These experiences have shaped my approach to creating more inclusive and comprehensive healthcare programs that address immediate medical needs and long-term wellness support.

    As part of Bow Trail Medical Clinic, you’ve helped establish a specialized women’s health division. What unique healthcare challenges are you aiming to address through this initiative?

    Through our women’s clinic in Calgary, we’re addressing several critical needs I’ve identified throughout my career. Working as a primary care physician in rural and urban settings, I’ve seen how crucial it is to provide comprehensive women’s healthcare beyond essential medical services.

    Our clinic focuses on providing continuous care throughout a woman’s life journey. Hospital privileges allow me to offer complete obstetric care, including surgical deliveries when necessary. This comprehensive approach is critical given my experience establishing obstetric programs from Ghana to Saskatchewan, where I’ve seen how integrated care can significantly improve outcomes.

    Additionally, based on my experience as a family physician with obstetric surgical skills, I recognized the need for specialized services that bridge the gap between primary care and specialized obstetrics. This is especially important as we aim to reduce barriers to accessing quality healthcare. We’re creating a model where women can receive coordinated care, from routine check-ups to more complex procedures, all within a familiar and supportive environment.”

    You received the Recognition of Excellence from the Alberta College of Family Physicians for contributing to family medicine. How does this experience help you create a more inclusive healthcare environment?

    Recognition of Excellence reinforced my commitment to building inclusive healthcare systems. This recognition reflects our success in implementing comprehensive care approaches that I’ve developed throughout my career. As a Family Practice Assessor for the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta, I work to ensure high standards of care across diverse medical environments.

    This experience, combined with my clinical teaching at the Cumming School of Medicine, helps me promote inclusive practices among the next generation of physicians.

    You’ve created sustainable medical solutions in different settings, from establishing a blood bank in Kuntanase Hospital to developing the obstetric program in Kindersley. How do these projects help overcome systemic barriers to healthcare access?

    Each project emerged from real, urgent needs I witnessed firsthand. I’ll never forget that critical moment in Kuntanase when I had to donate my blood to save a patient with a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. That experience wasn’t just about saving one life – it revealed a systemic gap that needed addressing.

    Establishing the blood bank wasn’t just about creating a facility; it was about ensuring that no other woman would face that same life-threatening situation due to a lack of resources.

    In Kindersley, Saskatchewan, we faced different challenges but similar underlying issues of access to care. Developing the obstetric program there wasn’t just about adding services – it was about creating pathways for family physicians to gain advanced obstetric skills, ensuring sustainable care in rural communities.

    I’ve learned from working in these diverse settings that sustainable solutions must grow from local needs while maintaining consistent quality standards.

    These experiences taught me that overcoming healthcare barriers isn’t just about building facilities or programs – it’s about understanding community needs, training healthcare providers, and creating systems that can continue serving people long after initial implementation. Whether in Ghana or Canada, the principles remain the same:

    • Listen to the community.
    • Identify the critical gaps.
    • Build solutions that can stand the test of time.

    Your recent article in WJARR and upcoming publications in Arjonline explore essential aspects of women’s health. How does your research contribute to changing approaches in women’s healthcare?

    This research grew directly from my experience working with patients and seeing how physical Trauma during childbirth can have lasting effects on both mental and physical well-being. By publishing these findings, we’re helping to highlight the interconnected nature of women’s health issues.

    This is particularly important for healthcare providers in urban and rural settings, where understanding these connections can lead to better patient care. The research also supports what I’ve implemented in practice – the importance of considering both immediate medical needs and long-term well-being in women’s healthcare.

    These publications contribute to a growing body of evidence supporting more integrated approaches to women’s healthcare. These approaches move beyond treating isolated symptoms to understanding and addressing the full spectrum of women’s health needs.

    What healthcare barriers for women do you plan to overcome shortly?

    I want to help people who previously did not have access to high-quality medicine. Based on my experience from Ghana to Canada, I aim to continue developing sustainable healthcare programs in underserved communities, focusing on integrating mental health support with primary care services.

    Through my teaching roles at the Cumming School of Medicine and clinical practice, I’m committed to training the next generation of healthcare providers to understand and address the unique challenges women face in accessing comprehensive healthcare.

    Imagining medicine 10 years from now, what should a truly inclusive and sustainable healthcare system look like?

    A truly inclusive and sustainable healthcare system should combine the best elements I’ve seen work in different settings – from rural Ghana to urban Canada. It should ensure that every woman can access comprehensive care, regardless of location.

    This means integrating primary care with specialized services, particularly in underserved areas, while maintaining strong connections between community clinics and larger medical centres. Mental health support should be readily available, and healthcare providers should be trained to deliver culturally competent care. Most importantly, it should be a system that grows and adapts with its communities, ensuring long-term sustainability.

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  • Fuel Your Endurance: Tips and Tricks for Building Long-Distance Running Endurance

    Fuel Your Endurance: Tips and Tricks for Building Long-Distance Running Endurance

    As runners, we all know the feeling of pushing our limits and reaching new heights of endurance. Whether you’re training for a marathon, a triathlon, or simply wanting to increase your overall fitness level, building long-distance running endurance is a crucial step towards achieving your goals. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of fueling your endurance and provide you with tips and tricks to help you power through even the toughest runs.

    Understanding Your Body’s Needs

    Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of fueling your endurance, it’s essential to understand your body’s needs. When you run, your body uses stored energy sources such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to fuel your muscles. As you increase your distance and intensity, your body requires more fuel to maintain its energy levels.

    One of the most significant energy sources for runners is glycogen, a complex carbohydrate stored in your muscles and liver. Glycogen is broken down into glucose, which is then used to fuel your muscles. However, glycogen stores are limited, and once depleted, your body must rely on other energy sources such as fats and proteins.

    Fueling Your Run

    So, how do you fuel your run to ensure you have enough energy to power through? Here are some key takeaways:

    • Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Adequate hydration is crucial for fueling your run. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, and make sure to drink water or a sports drink 15-30 minutes before your run.

    • Carb Load: Carbohydrates are your body’s primary source of energy. Focus on complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to provide sustained energy.

    • Electrolytes: Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and calcium are essential for maintaining proper hydration and nerve function. Include electrolyte-rich foods such as bananas, avocados, and nuts in your diet.

    • Protein: Protein is essential for muscle recovery and repair. Aim to consume 1.2-1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily.

    Pre-Run Nutrition

    What you eat before your run can make all the difference in your performance. Here are some tips to fuel your pre-run meal:

    • Timing is Everything: Aim to eat your pre-run meal 1-3 hours before your run. This allows for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients.

    • Complex Carbs: Focus on complex carbohydrates such as whole grain toast, oatmeal, or whole grain crackers to provide sustained energy.

    • Balanced Meal: Include a balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in your pre-run meal to provide sustained energy and support muscle function.

    • Avoid Heavy Meals: Avoid heavy meals that can cause digestive discomfort during your run. Opt for a light, balanced meal instead.

    During the Run

    What do you eat during your run? The answer is, not much! However, there are a few exceptions:

    • Gels and Chews: Energy gels and chews provide a quick burst of energy and can be consumed during longer runs.

    • Sports Drinks: Sports drinks provide essential electrolytes and can be consumed during longer runs or in hot weather conditions.

    • Fresh Fruits: Fresh fruits such as bananas, oranges, and dates provide a natural source of energy and can be consumed during shorter runs.

    Post-Run Nutrition

    After your run, it’s essential to refuel your body with the right nutrients to aid in recovery. Here are some tips:

    • Protein: Consume a source of protein within 30-60 minutes after your run to aid in muscle recovery and repair.

    • Carbs: Include complex carbohydrates in your post-run meal to replenish glycogen stores.

    • Hydrate: Replenish lost electrolytes and fluids with a sports drink or water.

    • Avoid Dehydration: Avoid dehydration by consuming electrolyte-rich foods and drinks after your run.

    Additional Tips and Tricks

    Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you fuel your endurance:

    • Experiment with Different Fuels: Experiment with different energy gels, chews, and sports drinks to find what works best for you.

    • Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues to ensure you’re fueling properly.

    • Get Enough Rest: Adequate rest and recovery are essential for building endurance. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

    • Incorporate Strength Training: Incorporate strength training exercises into your routine to improve muscle function and endurance.

    Conclusion

    Building long-distance running endurance requires a combination of proper nutrition, hydration, and training. By fueling your run with the right nutrients, you’ll be able to power through even the toughest runs. Remember to carb load, hydrate, and replenish lost electrolytes and fluids after your run. Experiment with different fuels and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues to ensure you’re fueling properly. With the right combination of nutrition, hydration, and training, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your endurance goals.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: What is the best way to carb load for a long run?
    A: Carb loading involves consuming complex carbohydrates in the days leading up to your run. Focus on whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to provide sustained energy.

    Q: How do I know if I’m fueling properly during my run?
    A: Pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. If you’re feeling tired or sluggish, it may be a sign that you need to fuel up.

    Q: What are some good sources of protein for post-run recovery?
    A: Good sources of protein for post-run recovery include lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, and plant-based options such as beans, lentils, and tofu.

    Q: How do I replenish lost electrolytes and fluids after my run?
    A: Replenish lost electrolytes and fluids with a sports drink or water. Aim to consume 16-20 ounces of fluid per hour of running.

    Q: Can I still run if I’m feeling sick or under the weather?
    A: No, it’s essential to prioritize your health and listen to your body. If you’re feeling sick or under the weather, it’s best to take a rest day and recover before resuming your training.

    fuel-your-endurance-tips-and-tricks-for-building-long-distance-running-endurance

  • The Ultimate Guide: Building Muscle Mass Safely and Efficiently

    The Ultimate Guide: Building Muscle Mass Safely and Efficiently

    Building muscle mass is a challenging and complex process, but with the right approach, it can be safe and efficient. As a fitness enthusiast or athlete, you’re likely no stranger to the gym, but you might be wondering how to take your training to the next level and achieve the muscle gain you’re looking for. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive rundown of the best practices for building muscle mass, as well as some valuable tips and considerations to keep in mind along the way.

    Understanding Muscle Growth: Myth-Busting and Fundamentals

    Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of building muscle, let’s take a step back and explore what’s actually happening when we focus on muscle growth. One of the biggest myths surrounding muscle gain is that we need to constantly increase the amount of weight we’re lifting in order to trigger growth. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. In reality, your muscles are made up of two primary types: slow-twitch and fast-twitch fibers. Slow-twitch fibers are designed for endurance and are responsible for allowing you to perform low-intensity tasks for extended periods of time. Fast-twitch fibers, on the other hand, are capable of generating immense force and power, but are typically used during high-intensity, short-duration efforts.

    When you’re lifting weights, your muscles are constantly adapting to the stress you’re placing on them. As your muscles become accustomed to the demand, they’ll begin to grow in response to the stimulus. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to start with tiny weights and gradually increase them. Instead, it’s more about creating progressive overload, which means that each workout is slightly more challenging than the last. This can be achieved through a combination of increasing the weight, reps, sets, or rest time between sets.

    Key Principles for Building Muscle Mass

    So, with the basics out of the way, let’s move on to the key principles that’ll help you build muscle safely and efficiently. Here are a few crucial guidelines to keep in mind:

    • Volume and Frequency: To build significant muscle mass, you’ll need to stimulate your muscles regularly. Aim to train each major muscle group three to four times per week, with three to five sets per exercise. The more volume you’re able to handle, the more your muscles will grow.

    • Progressive Overload: As we touched on earlier, progressive overload is crucial for creating the necessary stimulus for muscle growth. This can be achieved through a combination of increases in weight, reps, sets, and rest time between sets.

    • Proper Form and Technique: It goes without saying that proper form and technique are essential for avoiding injury and effective muscle growth. Make sure to practice each exercise with a focus on slowing down and controlling the weight throughout the full range of motion.

    • Consistency and Patience: Building muscle mass takes time, folks! Don’t expect overnight results, and be prepared to stick to a solid training and nutrition plan for at least three to six months before seeing noticeable gains.

    The Importance of a Balanced Diet

    When it comes to building muscle mass, a balanced diet plays a crucial role in providing your muscles with the necessary building blocks for growth and repair. Here are a few key nutrients to keep in mind:

    • Protein: Your muscles are made up of protein, and they require a consistent supply of amino acids in order to grow and repair. Aim to consume around 1.2 to 1.7 grams of protein per kilogram of bodyweight daily.

    • Carbohydrates: Carbs provide your body with energy, and are essential for fueling your workouts. Aim to consume complex, slow-digesting carbs like oats, brown rice, and sweet potatoes.

    • Healthy Fats: Healthy fats like those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil are essential for hormone regulation and overall health.

    Sample Meal Plan and Macro Breakdown

    Here’s an example meal plan that incorporates the aforementioned nutrients:

    • Breakfast: Omelette with turkey bacon, spinach, and whole wheat toast (40g protein, 30g carbs, 20g fat)

    • Snack: Apple slices with peanut butter (8g protein, 25g carbs, 16g fat)

    • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with brown rice and steamed broccoli (40g protein, 40g carbs, 10g fat)

    • Snack: Greek yogurt with berries and almonds (20g protein, 10g carbs, 10g fat)

    • Dinner: Grilled salmon with quinoa and roasted vegetables (40g protein, 30g carbs, 20g fat)

    Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building Muscle Mass

    As much as we’d like to think we’re doing everything right, there are always areas where we can improve. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when building muscle mass:

    • Overreaching: Don’t push your body too hard, too fast. Start with a manageable training plan and gradually increase volume and intensity over time.

    • Overtraining: Make sure to incorporate rest days and active recovery techniques (like foam rolling and light cardio) to avoid burnout and injury.

    • Poor Nutrition: Stick to a balanced diet and avoid unnecessary supplements and processed foods.

    How to Incorporate Progressive Overload in Your Training

    So, how do you know when it’s time to increase the weight you’re lifting? Here are a few signs it’s time to bump up the heaviness:

    • You’re barely completing the last rep: If you’re struggling to complete the last rep with good form, it’s likely that your muscles have adapted to the stress and it’s time to challenge them further.

    • You’ve stopped feeling sore: If you’re not experiencing soreness or fatigue after your workouts, your muscles may have become too accustomed to the stimulus and it’s time to introduce more challenge.

    • You’ve seen no progress: If you’ve stopped seeing gains in strength or muscle size, it may be time to re-evaluate your training plan and introduce more progressive overload.

    Conclusion

    Building muscle mass is a rewarding and challenging process, but with the right approach and mindset, you can achieve significant results safely and efficiently. Remember to focus on consistency, patience, and progressive overload, and prioritize proper form and technique. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see instant results – muscle growth is a marathon, not a sprint. Stick to your training and nutrition plan, and you’ll be on your way to building the muscle mass you’ve always wanted.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: How long does it take to build muscle mass?
    A: With consistent training and nutrition, you can see noticeable gains in muscle mass after three to six months.

    Q: Do I need to take supplements to build muscle?
    A: While supplements can be helpful, they’re not necessary for building muscle mass. Focus on proper nutrition and training, and avoid using supplements as a crutch.

    Q: How often should I train my major muscle groups?
    A: Aim to train each major muscle group three to four times per week, with three to five sets per exercise.

    Q: What’s the most important factor for building muscle mass?
    A: Progressive overload is the most important factor in building muscle mass. Make sure to progressively increase the weight, reps, sets, or rest time between sets.

    the-ultimate-guide-building-muscle-mass-safely-and-efficiently

  • Building a Referral Network: 6 Mistakes to Avoid

    Building a Referral Network: 6 Mistakes to Avoid

    Everyone needs a team.

    As a health coach, you can become an expert in multiple areas: nutrition, behavior change psychology, fitness and athletic performance, stress management and recovery, and more.

    However, no matter how many certifications you earn, you’ll invariably encounter clients with progress-blocking problems you don’t have the skills, training, expertise, or legal right to solve.

    Here’s the thing…

    You may not be an expert at fixing marriages, treating GERD, or counseling someone with an eating disorder, but someone else is.

    Here’s where a healthy referral network comes in.

    By connecting your client with such a person, you get to stay within your scope of practice, give welcome business to respected colleagues, and help your client solve their problem.

    (Total. Supercoach. Move.)

    All of our certification programs include sections devoted to teaching coaches how to build robust referral networks of professionals skilled at solving common client problems.

    In this article, we’ll discuss how to do that—by exploring the top mistakes we see coaches make. Avoid them, and you’ll be able to refer out with confidence.

    First, what’s a referral network?

    A referral network is a list of supplementary professionals, businesses, and resources that benefit clients.

    Your network might include local or virtual:

    • Medical doctors, psychologists, registered dietitians, and other professionals with the training and credentials to help clients with problems outside of your scope of practice. (For an in-depth refresher, see our Scope of Practice worksheet.)
    • Fellow health coaches and personal trainers with deep knowledge in an area outside your experience. (For example, maybe a client is interested in learning yoga, but you haven’t the faintest idea of how to salute the sun.)
    • Workshops, fitness groups, webinars, food services, and other resources that support clients during their behavior change journey.

    To confidently refer clients to skilled practitioners with excellent reputations, you’ll want to do some legwork. That brings us to the top mistakes to avoid.

    Mistake #1: You build your network before launching your business.

    For recently certified health coaches, the task “create a referral network” can double as a procrastination tool, says PN’s Director of Community Engagement Kate Solovieva.

    Rather than take on clients, these coaches search for an increasing number of professionals, valiantly trying to be prepared for every potential referral situation. Yet, as much as they continue to work on it, their list is never “complete.”

    That’s because…

    “We can’t be prepared for everything,” says Solovieva.

    The solution

    Take on clients as soon as you’re certified.

    Yes! That might sound scary, but the best way to figure out your “gaps” is to begin your practice, and see where your clients actually need help beyond what you can offer.

    Add folks to your referral network over time as you:

    • Connect with professionals on LinkedIn and other virtual networking sites
    • Lean into peer networks (such as the Precision Nutrition Facebook communities)
    • Mingle with members of your local Chamber of Commerce
    • Chat with family, friends, and clients about professionals and resources they love
    • Attend health conventions and other local events where a variety of health professionals tend to congregate
    • Search for (and try out!) providers based on your own health needs

    Who belongs in your referral network?

    Use the following resource list as inspiration.

    Resource Name Website Contact information
    Acupuncturist
    Chiropractor
    Cooking class
    Cycling, hiking, walking, or running club
    Exercise physiologist
    Coach who specializes in plant-based diets / pre- or post-natal fitness / other coaching niche you don’t cater to
    Marriage / family counselor
    Massage therapist
    Meal delivery service
    Mental health professional
    Orthopedist
    Pelvic floor therapist
    Primary care physician
    Physiotherapist
    Registered dietitian
    Stress management class
    Other

    Mistake #2: You assume your referral list will cover all client needs.

    As we mentioned above, you’ll never be able to anticipate every referral or client question ahead of time—and that’s okay.

    This is especially true if you coach virtually with clients worldwide.

    (You might know three fantastic massage therapists where you live in Toronto, Canada, but that knowledge won’t help if your client is based in Wellington, New Zealand.)

    Similarly, some professionals or resources might work for some clients, but not others.

    (You might, for example, know of several meal delivery options, yet none are suitable for that plant-based client who’s on a strict gluten-free diet.)

    The solution

    Learn how to help clients find the professionals and resources they need.

    You might:

    • Ask clients to describe their preferences. (Do they prefer working with a specific gender? Do they want to meet in person or online? Do they like the eagerness and creativity of a newer professional, or the “I’ve seen it all” sageness of a more seasoned pro?)
    • Devote a coaching session to searching online for potential professionals and services together.
    • Encourage clients to contact three practitioners, ask questions, and use what they learn to pick a winner.

    Mistake #3: You let social awkwardness derail networking opportunities.

    Reaching out to a stranger requires some bravery. You have to put yourself out there, explain who you are and what your motives are, and risk being ignored or turned down.

    This is where many coaches get stuck, says Toni Bauer, PN’s Director of Coaching and Education Operations.

    As a result, many coaches may put off the conversation.

    The solution

    Turn networking into a challenge. Coach Solovieva calls it “Operation 100.”

    • Set a goal to contact 100 professionals over 12 months.
    • Work toward your goal every week for about 20 minutes.
    • Follow up with each non-responder once or twice.
    • Instead of expecting a “yes” from every person you approach, understand that only about 10 percent of people will get back to you.

    To ease yourself into the challenge, draft your elevator pitch, suggests Bauer.

    Don’t overthink this. Your pitch doesn’t have to be a multi-page persuasive essay. Nor does it have to contain magical talking points. Just be yourself.

    The elevator pitch: How to introduce yourself to a potential referral

    As you work on your elevator pitch, use the examples below for inspiration.

    “I’m a health coach who works with corporate executives. However, some of my clients would benefit from someone with your expertise. I would like to recommend you to my clients as those needs arise. Are you open to that?”

    Or:

    “I’m a health coach who works with athletes. Occasionally, my clients need guidance that I can’t always provide. I admire the work you’re doing, and I’d love to be able to refer people to you. If you’re open to that, could we have a quick 15- or 20-minute meeting to discuss what that arrangement would look like?”

    Or simply:

    “I’m a health coach and I’m building a referral list of practitioners. I would love to refer clients to you. Are you taking new patients right now?”

    Mistake #4: You use dated persuasion tactics.

    If you use LinkedIn, then you’ve likely been on the receiving end of old-school cold sales tactics. We’re talking direct messages from strangers who clearly haven’t read anything on your profile and know nothing about you.

    These spammy messages are as welcome as a stranger who sidles up to you at a bar and says, “So, wanna come back to my place?”

    We’re not here to discourage you from using cold outreach. It has a place. However, to increase your response rate, we’d like to introduce you to a rarely used technique.

    The solution

    Get to know people before making an online ask, suggests Coach Solovieva.

    Follow them, read their content, download and consume their free resources, comment on their posts, congratulate them on career wins, and become a part of their online life.

    Do that, and people will remember you. More of them will respond to your messages, too. Plus, the intel you gather by forming a relationship will help you avoid…

    Mistake #5: You don’t personally vet referrals.

    How do you ensure you refer clients to compassionate professionals who truly know what they’re doing?

    It involves more than checking someone’s website or social media profile.

    If you only look at someone’s website or social media posts, “You’re just vetting their confidence and copywriting skills,” says Solovieva. “If we’re fortunate, confidence and copywriting go hand in hand with ability, but not always.”

    The solution

    Try out their services. Take someone’s yoga or Zumba class. Book a massage. Ask a medical professional to look at your creaky knee.

    That way, you can see the professional in action.

    If you’re thinking, ‘I don’t need some of the services my clients need!’ you’ve got a couple of options:

    • Offer to pay a professional to meet with you for 30 to 60 minutes so you can ask some questions, get a sense of their treatment philosophy, and chat about referring clients to them.
    • Interact with people in local social networking communities like NextDoor.com. Ask group members if they’ve seen a practitioner and, if so, whether they’d recommend the person.

    Mistake #6: You sell clients too hard on your referrals.

    When you recommend a professional you’ve personally vetted, it’s natural to want your client to take action.

    However, despite your hard work, some clients just won’t make an appointment with the professional in question—and that’s okay.

    “Let your clients be adults,” says Coach Bauer.

    Clients have their reasons. Maybe their insurance won’t cover the service in question. Or, maybe they decided to see someone else.

    “It’s not your responsibility for the relationships to be perfect or to flourish,“ says Bauer.

    A cycle of support

    Some coaches fear referrals because they see them as “giving business away.”

    In reality, however, when you refer clients to solid pros, your clients simply feel like you have their back. (Which means they’ll be more likely to refer friends and family to you.)

    Plus, when you send business towards another respected colleague, it also puts you on their radar for a cross-referral.

    It’s good for your clients, good for business, and good for your community of health pros at large.

    If you’re a coach, or you want to be…

    You can help people build sustainable nutrition and lifestyle habits that will significantly improve their physical and mental health—while you make a great living doing what you love. We’ll show you how.

    If you’d like to learn more, consider the PN Level 1 Nutrition Coaching Certification.

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