Paid Calls Are Different From Making Videos
If you're a YouTuber considering offering paid consultations, here's the thing: it's a whole different ballgame than creating videos. Sure, both involve sharing your expertise, but the similarities pretty much end there. Videos are one-to-many; they're broadcast to an audience at a distance. Paid calls, on the other hand, are one-to-one or one-to-few, requiring a personalized, interactive approach. The good news is that the skills you've honed on YouTube can transfer to consultations. You just need to adapt them.
Shift from Content Creation to Direct Interaction
Creating a video allows for edits, retakes, and control over the final product. Paid calls? They happen live, and there's no redo button. This means being comfortable thinking on your feet and engaging directly with your client’s needs in real time. For example, if you're known for teaching video editing techniques, in a consultation, you might walk someone through their specific project challenges, providing immediate feedback—something you can't do in a pre-recorded video.
Tailoring Your Expertise
With video content, you often create for the masses, addressing common questions or topics. Paid calls require you to tailor your advice to the individual sitting across from you. This personalization is what clients pay for, and it’s your chance to provide immense value. This might mean reviewing a client's existing work beforehand or asking them to send questions in advance so you can prepare adequately.
The Personal Touch
Finally, the direct interaction in paid calls necessitates a more personal touch. This involves active listening, empathy, and the ability to build rapport quickly. Your YouTube charisma is a great start, but remember: this is a conversation, not a performance. It's about understanding the client's needs and crafting solutions specifically for them. Ready to make the transition? Let's dive into the preparation phase.
Before the Call: Preparation Checklist
Preparation is non-negotiable for successful paid consultations. Here's your checklist to ensure you (and your client) get the most out of the session.
Understand Your Client's Needs
Begin by gathering information about your client. Send a pre-session questionnaire to understand their challenges and what they hope to achieve from the call. For example, if a creator reaches out for help with growing their channel, the questionnaire might ask about their current subscriber count, content niche, and their biggest obstacles.
Research and Set Your Agenda
Once you know the client's needs, research accordingly. Prepare an agenda that outlines the call’s structure—this helps keep the session on track. If it's a 30-minute call, you might allocate 10 minutes to understanding their goals, 15 minutes to discussing solutions, and 5 minutes for questions. For more complex topics, draft a few resources or examples you can share during the call.
Test Your Tech Setup
Technical glitches can kill the flow of a consultation. Test your video and audio setup beforehand. Ensure you have a stable internet connection. If you're using Talkspresso, know that its HD video and screen sharing features are optimized for seamless sessions, which can make your life easier. Double-check everything before the call to avoid embarrassing interruptions.
Set the Right Environment
Create a professional, distraction-free environment. This sets the stage for a focused session. Let household members know you’re not to be disturbed, and ensure your background is tidy and free from noise. Remember, this is an extension of your brand, so make sure it reflects your professionalism.
With these steps, you’re setting the groundwork for a productive session. Armed with insights and a clear plan, you’re ready to deliver value from the get-go.
The 30-Minute Session Template
Sometimes a short, focused consultation is all a client needs. Here's how to make the most out of a 30-minute session.
Start with an Introduction and Agenda
Kick off the call by introducing yourself and outlining what you'll cover. This sets expectations and gives structure to the conversation. For instance, "In the next 30 minutes, we'll go through your channel goals, discuss strategies to boost engagement, and address any questions you have."
Dive Into the Main Content
Move quickly into the core of the session. This might be a specific problem the client wants to solve or a strategy they need help implementing. Use this time to share insights, offer advice, and suggest actionable steps. For example, if they're facing low engagement, provide two or three methods they've not yet tried, such as interactive polls or series-based content.
Q&A and Wrap-Up
Leave the last 5-7 minutes for questions and summary. Encourage the client to ask anything that might have come up during the session. Conclude with a brief recap of what was discussed and the next steps they should take. This reinforces the value provided and gives them clear directions post-call.
A 30-minute session is about delivering concise, impactful advice. Stick to the agenda, stay focused, and offer specific steps they can act upon.
The 60-Minute Deep Dive Template
For more complex issues, a 60-minute session provides the time to explore topics in depth. Here's how to structure it effectively.
Introduction and Detailed Agenda
Start with a thorough introduction and lay out a detailed agenda. For example, "In this hour, we'll delve into your analytics, brainstorm content strategies, and explore monetization options. Then, we'll field questions and outline next steps."
Analyze and Strategize
Spend the bulk of the time—around 40 minutes—diving into the meat of the consultation. This is where you analyze data, brainstorm, and strategize with your client. Use visual aids like screen sharing to clarify points. If a client wants to refine their channel's branding, show examples of successful branding efforts within their niche.
Break for Feedback and Adjustments
Incorporate a short break to get feedback mid-session. Ask questions like, "Is this the direction you wanted to go?" This ensures you're on track and addressing the client's priorities. Adjust your strategy as needed based on their feedback.
Q&A and Next Steps
Conclude with a 10-minute Q&A and a summary. Address any lingering questions and reinforce the session's key takeaways. Offer concrete next steps and encourage them to follow up with questions via email if needed. This leaves them with a clear path forward, bolstering their confidence in implementing the advice.
Remember, a 60-minute session isn't just about filling time. It's about creating a comprehensive, engaging dialogue that empowers your client to make meaningful changes.
Ready to deliver your sessions seamlessly? Use Talkspresso's HD video and screen sharing to enhance the experience. It handles the tech so you can focus on the conversation.
Fan Calls vs Expert Consultations: Different Approaches
Not all paid calls are created equal. Fan calls and expert consultations require distinct approaches and mindsets.
Fan Calls: Building Connection
Fan calls are about building personal connections with your audience. These are often shorter and less structured, focusing on interaction and engagement. Use this time to show appreciation, answer questions, and offer a behind-the-scenes look at your creative process. For example, a fan might want to know what inspires your content or what your daily routine looks like.
Expert Consultations: Delivering Value
Expert consultations, on the other hand, are more formal and structured. Clients are paying for your insights and expertise, so the focus is on delivering actionable value. This might involve reviewing their work, suggesting improvements, or developing strategies tailored to their goals. You're not just chatting—you're providing a service that can significantly impact their growth.
Pricing and Expectation Setting
The pricing for these sessions will differ. Fan calls might range from $25 to $75 for a 15-30 minute conversation, while expert consultations can command $100 to $200 per hour or more, depending on your expertise. Clearly communicate what clients can expect from each type of call, and ensure your offerings are listed accurately on your Talkspresso profile.
Understanding the differences between fan calls and expert consultations ensures you meet client expectations and deliver the right experience. Tailor your approach accordingly, and you'll turn these sessions into a powerful revenue stream.
Handling Difficult Call Situations
Not every call goes as planned. Here's how to handle tricky situations with professionalism and ease.
Technical Issues
When tech fails, it can be frustrating for both parties. Have a backup plan in place, like a phone call option, and communicate it to your client. If you're using Talkspresso, its robust platform minimizes these issues, but it's always good to have an alternative.
Challenging Clients
Occasionally, you'll encounter clients who are demanding or off-topic. Stay calm and steer the conversation back to the agenda. Use phrases like, "Let's focus on the main topic" or, "We can explore that if we have time at the end." Remember, it's your session to moderate.
Unmet Expectations
Sometimes, a client may feel that the session didn't meet their needs. Address this directly by asking for feedback and offering a partial refund or a free follow-up session if warranted. This demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to client satisfaction, which can turn a negative experience into a positive one.
Handling difficult situations with grace not only resolves immediate issues but also enhances your reputation. Prepare for the unexpected, remain professional, and always aim to resolve challenges constructively.
The Follow-Up That Books Repeat Calls
The session itself is just the beginning. Effective follow-up can turn a one-time caller into a repeat client.
Immediate Follow-Up Email
Send a follow-up email within 24 hours to thank the client for their time. Include a summary of what was discussed, any resources or links you promised, and reiterate key action points. This reinforces the value you provided and gives them something tangible to refer back to.
Offer Additional Resources
Based on the session, recommend additional resources—like relevant videos, articles, or tools—that can help them further. This not only enhances their experience but also positions you as a resourceful and invested advisor.
Propose a Follow-Up Session
End your email with a call-to-action for a follow-up session. You might say, "I'd love to check in on your progress in a few weeks. Let me know if you'd like to schedule another call." This gentle nudge can convert satisfied clients into regular ones.
With these steps, your follow-up isn't just a courtesy—it's a strategic move that invites clients to continue working with you. Consistent follow-ups can significantly increase your repeat business and establish long-term client relationships.
Getting Testimonials From Paid Calls
Testimonials are powerful tools for building credibility and attracting new clients. Here's how to get them from your paid consultations.
Ask During the Session
Towards the end of a successful call, mention how much you value feedback and ask if they'd be willing to provide a testimonial. This is often the easiest time to ask, as the value of the session is fresh in their minds. Use a simple request like, "If you found our session helpful, I’d love a brief testimonial to share with potential clients."
Follow-Up Email Request
If you didn't ask during the call, include a request in your follow-up email. Provide guidance on what makes a good testimonial. You might say, "A few sentences on what you found valuable would be helpful for others considering a session."
Highlight Testimonials
Once you have testimonials, feature them prominently on your Talkspresso profile and your YouTube channel. They serve as social proof of your expertise and can significantly influence potential clients' decisions.
Consistent requests for testimonials create a repository of positive feedback that bolsters your reputation. They not only affirm the value you provide but also help attract more clients.
Turning Call Insights Into New Video Content
Your paid consultations are a goldmine of content ideas. Here’s how to transform these insights into engaging YouTube videos.
Identify Common Themes
During calls, take note of recurring questions or challenges your clients face. These patterns indicate topics that resonate with your audience at large. For example, if multiple clients struggle with YouTube SEO, create a video that addresses common pitfalls and solutions.
Create Case Study Content
With client permission, turn successful consultations into case study videos. Showcase the client's original problem, the strategies you suggested, and the results they achieved. This not only provides valuable content but also highlights your expertise and the effectiveness of your consultations.
Use Testimonials in Videos
Incorporate client testimonials into your videos to build credibility. A quick clip of a satisfied client sharing their experience can be a powerful endorsement. Ensure you have their consent before using their testimonial in your content.
By leveraging insights from your consultations, you're continuously generating new, relevant video content that speaks directly to your audience's needs. This not only enhances your channel but also reinforces the value of your paid consultations.
Ready to turn your YouTube presence into a consultation powerhouse? Talkspresso’s all-in-one platform for video calls, scheduling, and payments makes it easy to manage your sessions. Sign up and create your free page today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I set a price for my consultations?
Check out our guide on determining rates: "How Much to Charge for Fan Calls & Consultations." Generally, new YouTubers charge $100-$150 for expert sessions. Tailor your rate based on demand and niche.
What should I do if a client is unsatisfied?
Address concerns directly by seeking feedback and offering a solution, like a partial refund or complimentary follow-up. This professional approach can turn dissatisfaction into a positive experience.
Can I use call insights for content without permission?
Gain client consent before using specific call details in your videos. It’s essential to maintain trust and respect their privacy.
What if I encounter technical issues during a call?
Have a backup plan, like switching to a phone call. Using a reliable platform like Talkspresso can minimize tech disruptions.
How often should I follow up with clients?
Send a follow-up email within 24 hours of the session. Propose additional sessions based on client needs and progress. Regular check-ins can foster ongoing relationships and repeat business.
