From Hello to Commitment: Converting Free Intro Calls

6 min read

Free calls are all the rage these days. Therapists, coaches, consultants—everyone is doing it. Why? Because they work. These little 15-minute teasers let potential clients get a taste of the magic you bring to the table. But let us be real: you are not here to hand out free advice like Oprah giving away cars. You are here to convert.

The trick? Make that free call irresistible, like a first date that guarantees a second. Ready to find out how? Let us go.

1. Strong Start: Lay the foundation

The first step in turning your free call into a paid opportunity is making a strong, clear introduction. This is your time to shine and let your potential client know exactly how your sessions work. Be transparent, confident, and straightforward.  

Key points:

- Briefly explain who you are, what you do, and why you are the solution they have been searching for.

- Ask insightful questions to uncover their pain points and goals.

- Ask thoughtful questions to gain insights into their challenges and goals.

This initial connection builds trust and sets the tone for the value you provide. By clearly outlining what the free call covers, you subtly prepare them for the idea that your paid sessions offer the real solutions.

2. Make your call stand out with a personal touch

Think of your free call as a sneak peek at the VIP experience they will get as a paying client. Make them feel like the star of the show. Actively listen, sprinkle in some golden nuggets of wisdom, but save the secret sauce for the main course—you know, the paid sessions.

Pro tip: give them one juicy tip and say, “there’s plenty more where that came from—just not for free.”

3. Highlight progress over process

People do not care how many hours you spend with them; they care about the results. Use this call to paint the picture of their glow-up. Share success stories (anonymously, of course), or even specific results you have been able to help other clients achieve. Show them how working with you will take them from “meh” to “wow.”

4. Protect Your Value: It’s OK to say ‘No’ to freebies

A free call is not a therapy session or an hour-long TED talk. It is a sampler, not the whole buffet. Set a time limit and stick to it. If they are into what you are offering, boom—perfect time to pitch your paid services:

“Our free call gives you a taste, but my paid sessions are where the real magic happens.”

By setting clear expectations from the start, you avoid the trap of endless free calls and start positioning yourself as someone whose time and expertise are valuable.  

5. Name drop your paid services effortlessly

You are not a pushy salesperson; you are a professional who knows their worth. Casually mention your paid services during the call—no hard sell needed.

Here are some examples of how to casually mention your paid offerings:  

- “In my paid sessions, we’d dive deeper into this topic and come up with a detailed plan.”

- “Most of my clients see results after just a few paid sessions like this one.”

This plants the seed in their mind without overwhelming them. Subtle yet effective.

6. Get to ‘Yes’

Wrap things up with confidence. Leave them excited about the possibility of working with you, and do not forget to outline the next steps.

Key point:

Tell them how the call went, and you are confident you can work things out based on your client goals.

Remind them that whenever they are ready, they can book a full session with you!

A great closing should leave the potential client feeling clear about the next step while reinforcing the value of what you offer. Whether you are creating a sense of urgency, offering empowerment, or highlighting your proven success, a well-crafted closing can make all the difference in turning a free call into a paid relationship.  

Conclusion

The free call is not just a chance for them to see if they like you—it is your stage to show them why you are exactly what they need. Be bold, set boundaries, and do not shy away from highlighting your value. You are here to help, but let us not forget, you are also here to make a living.

Now go out there, slay your free calls, and start turning “freebies” into “paid, please.”