International Childbirth Education Association

Postpartum Doula Program

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Part 9: Business Aspects and Responsibilities

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� Summarize business model choices. � Explain two ways a doula can market her

business. � List three items that could go into a

postpartum doula tool bag.

OObjectives:

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� Choose the type of business desired

� Register with the Office of Secretary of State

� Obtain EIN ~ IRS Employer Tax ID

� Create a business plan

� Open a checking account

� Use the Small Business Administration for assistance

BBusiness Basics for the Postpartum Doula

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� What does the community want and need

� What will you charge

� What are your wage needs

� What is your marketing strategy

BBusiness and Marketing

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� Brochures � Business cards � Flyers � Stationary � Postcards � Press release � Write articles � Baby fairs, exhibitions � Speaking engagement

MMarketing Strategies

Perhaps THE BEST advertisement is by

REFERRAL!

Network, Network, Network!

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� Website � Social Media

� Facebook � Twitter � Blogs � LinkedIn � Instagram � Pinterest

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PProper use of social media Do’s Do Not’s

� Advertising � Sharing ideas � Meeting other birth

professionals

� Asking for advice for clients

� Sharing birth announcements

� Sharing personal stories or information about a client

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� Don’t expect results overnight � Don’t start without a plan � Don’t take competition personally

� Don’t take competition personally � Don’t take competition personally

� Don’t take competition personally � Don’t take competition personally

BBusiness Don’ts

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� Lactation Support Specialist/LC

� Parenting Educator

� Child Passenger Safety Tech

� Pre or Post Natal Yoga

� Exercise Instructor

AAdding Complimentary Services

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� Photographer ~ Baby, Family, Birth

� Childbirth Educator

� Birth Doula

� Massage Therapist

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� What could you put in your doula bag? Think

about things that you feel are essential. � Why would you put that item in your bag?

TThe Doula’s Bag

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