From Follower to Client: The Doula’s Guide to Instagram That Converts

Doula sales tips | Doula consultations | Ethical selling for doulas | How to book doula clients | Confident doula sales

Are you pouring your heart into content, but still not hearing yes?

You're not alone. Almost no doulas are actually asking for the sale.

They’re showing up with value. Posting consistently. Building trust.
But when it’s time to say, “Would you like to work together?”—they freeze.

Which got me thinking: maybe it’s not that you don’t know what to say.
Maybe you’ve just never practiced saying it out loud.

That’s why I created a podcast episode and a live workshop to walk you through it step-by-step (more on that at the end). But before that, let’s break down what it actually takes to turn followers into paying clients—without begging, bragging, or feeling like a weirdo.

Why Your Followers Aren’t Buying (Yet)

They’re watching. They’re nodding along.
They might even save your post or forward it to their birth group chat.

But they’re not booking.

And it’s not because they don’t trust you or because your content isn’t good.
It’s because value doesn’t automatically convert.

You can give away amazing tips every single day and still not have a single person inquire. That’s because information isn’t the same as invitation.

Followers need clarity. They need permission. They need to know exactly how to take the next step.

And that step has to be spelled out by you.

What’s Turning People Away (And What To Say Instead)

Let’s break down three common content mistakes doulas are making—and how to shift the energy.

Begging
You post: “Open spots this weekend, please reach out!”
She sees: “I’m not booked. I’m desperate. Please save me.”
Instead, try: “I have two spots for a mama who’s ready to feel fully seen and supported during her birth. If that’s you, I’d love to connect.”

Bragging
You post: “I've been to 350 births.”
She sees: “She probably doesn’t get me or my birth goals.”
Instead, try: “When my client texted me after birth saying, ‘I couldn’t have done this without you,’ I cried. This is why I do what I do.”

Being Vague or “Too Soft”
You post a reel with spa music and a caption that says “Empowered birth. DM to connect.”
She sees: “Is this a doula or a meditation app?”
Instead: Show your face. Speak like a real person. “Need a doula who gets it and shows up with snacks and strategy? I might be your girl.”

If your content feels stiff or salesy, it’s a no.
If it feels like you—warm, clear, specific—it’s a yes.

What Actually Works: 3 Simple Shifts That Convert

Let’s move from “inspirational” content to profitable content.

1. Lead With Emotion Before Logistics

Instead of “Here’s what’s in my package,” paint a picture of the outcome.

Try:
“Imagine walking into your birth feeling calm, seen, and completely supported. Like you’ve got a secret weapon on your side.”

Let them feel the transformation before you mention the details.

2. Use Permission-Based Language

People want to feel like they’re choosing—not being sold to. Here are two powerful lines that do just that:

• “Would it be helpful if I walked you through what working together might look like?”

• “Do you want to hear how I typically support clients in your shoes?”

This approach keeps the door open and the energy collaborative.

3. Make It Stupid-Simple to Say Yes

Don’t make potential clients dig for your offer or figure out how to work with you.

Tell them exactly what to do.
For example: “DM me the word READY if you want my eyes on your birth plan.”

Remove the friction. Remove the confusion. Make it easy.

How to Sell in the DMs (Without Feeling Weird)

Let’s walk through a few examples of how to engage naturally when someone responds to your content.

She comments: “This post is exactly what I needed.”
You reply: “I’m so glad. Are you currently preparing for birth?”

She replies to your story: “This was really helpful.”
You reply: “Would you like more info on how I support my clients with this?”

She says: “I’m not sure I’m ready yet.”
You reply: “Totally okay. What would help you feel more clear or confident?”

This is how you create connection without pressure. You’re not chasing leads. You’re guiding the conversation with curiosity and calm.

How to Practice the Ask (Without Sounding Salesy)

The ask doesn’t need to feel awkward or forced.

You don’t need to suddenly switch from “chatty and supportive” to “hard closer.”

Try saying these lines out loud so they become natural and comfortable:

• “I’d love to walk with you through this experience. Want to talk about what that could look like?”

• “Would it be helpful if I shared how my support works and what the next step would be if it feels aligned?”

This is where trust is built. This is where you stop freezing and start leading.

Because when someone is finally ready to hire—you won’t panic.
You’ll know exactly what to say.

Want to Practice This With Me? Come to My Live Workshop

If you’re reading this in real-time, registration is now open for my upcoming live workshop:

Pitch Without the Ick: Learn How to Convert on a Consult Without Feeling Gross, Pushy, or Fake

We’ll cover:

• Real-time consult scripts you can steal and use

• Objection handling with heart

• The mindset shifts that take you from stuck to sold out

• How to ask for the sale in a way that feels bold, honest, and human

This workshop is live, interactive, and spicy. You’ll walk away with confidence, clarity, and an actual game plan.

DM me the word BOOKED to reserve your spot now!

If you’ve been waiting for the sign to stop winging your sales and start booking more clients—this is it.

Let’s go, doula.