Scaling your work as a coach

When I first started training to be a coach back in the early 2000s, I was still working as a leader with

the United Nations, responsible for programming and a staff team across a sub-region of 10 different countries. I had stumbled across this thing called "coaching" at a conference, and immediately saw potential for bringing these types of conversations into my work to support enhanced learning, insights, and also action. What I couldn't see clearly was how I was going to do it 1-1. My work in those days, as it is now, was primarily with groups and teams - from community groups, to teams, through to government agencies.

In those days when I first started as a coach, gorup and team coaching were very much in their infancy. Today, we still have a long way to go, however, these modalities are now recognized as sub-disciplines of the coaching profession.

Since opening my doors to business through Potentials Realized in 2004, I've been fortunate to work directly with thousands of coaches - from individual clients, to ICF chapters. A common question I get asked is "how do I scale my work as a coach"?

Today there are a lot of options to expand your coaching conversation. Consider these different ways:

Group and/or Team Coaching
Retreats
On-demand Video Based Programming
VIP Days
Peer Coaching

What are the ways you are adding different revenue streams onto your business? What are avenues you are interested in exploring?

For more posts on this topic, do check out:

These past posts from the blog on Program Design here
These past posts from the blog on Business Development here.

As with most program development initiatives, developing new programming can take time, AND one step at a time, programs can be out the door in weeks. I've just started a new series on Instagram called the #90DaysPlanDoTrack, where I'm sharing a different question fo you to consider and take action on around your business for each of the 90  days of fall (or spring) this year. I hope that you will follow along at https://www.instagram.com/coachingbizbuilder.

The new 4 hour Plan.Do.Track Virtual Retreats I am hosting this fall, also are gong to support coaches and other professionals in carving out time to Plan important projects, take some steps in action and identify how they will track there results. Check the upcoming dates here, including next Thursday October 4th from 1 - 5 pm ET.

What are the modalities you'd like to add to your programming in the next 12 -15 months?

Enjoy the rest of your week,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, CPCC, PCC
Potentials Realized | /GroupCoachingEssentials
Email: info@potentialsrealized.com
Phone: 416-996-8326
Group Coaching Essentials - All things group coaching
Effective Virtual Conversations.com - All things virtual
Coaching Business Builder.com- All things business related (for coaches)  

Six more ways to use visuals in your work - Part 2

Last week's post on using visuals in our work with groups and teams proved to be very popular and I received a number of emails from individuals wanting more info. I dedicated last week's blab to demonstrating six ways to using visual cards in your work. If you haven't had a chance to view it, you can do so here.

Here's a list of ways you might consider bringing in photos:
Openers
Closure
Celebration
Acknowledgement
Work around Vision
Work around Values
Pre-work (supporting the "priming" function of learning. There may be something you can do linked to your focus)
As learning partner work
As a tangible "take away" from the session
As a reminder which can be sent out after the event (like a post-card)


Whether you decide to go with a formal photo deck like Conversation Sparker or other, you can also make your own. I've had alumni of the Group Coaching Essentials make their own decks for their coaching work. Here's how different people did it:
1. Created their own deck using istock photos
2. Created special laminated cards using their own photos

ConversationSparker.com

3 Purchased a series of calendars at the dollar store
4. Brought old magazines for people to choose from.


I've just launched my newest e-manual - 40 Ways to  Use Visual Cards = which goes into one and two page descriptions of forty different activities plus 5 worksheets you can use "as is" with your groups. This is a digital product and costs $40 US - that's only $1 an activity!

Have a great week,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, MES, CPT, PCC
Group Coaching Essentials | Potentials Realized  
Author of Effective Group Coaching (Wiley, 2010) and From One to Many: Best Practices for Team and Group Coaching (Jossey-Bass, 2013)
Join us for an upcoming CCE approved program including the Group Coaching Essentials teleseminar starting December 1st (Tues/Thurs Dec 1, 8, 10, 15, 17 - 8.75 CCEs with the ICF) - 3 spots open
Save 50% on the Coaching Business Builder - our latest on-demand course -  at the Learning Lab and Design Studio
 (416)996-8326

The modular approach to program design

A shot of two of my current projects: Jenn Britton

In my book, Effective Group Coaching, I talk about how I use a modular approach to program design in creating most of my coaching and training programs. We also cover this in the Group Coaching Essentials teleclass.

By  using a modular approach I can combine different components to create different programs. For example, over the years I have developed several different components (or building blocks) around working with values. Some of these run for 20 minutes, others can expand to 2 hours. We may use a values checklist to start the conversation, or do a peak experience visualization to explore values, depending on the group. Likewise, I have several different options (or building blocks) if a client, team or group wants to look at strengths. Some shorter and more defined, others more exploratory and group led.

The great thing with a modular program design is that is allows you  to quickly take stock of what approaches you have already and how these can be combined for different groups and needs. Right now, I am in the process of designing three different sessions to be delivered in the next few weeks to three different client groups. One is a full day retreat, one a series of team coaching conversations, and one is a two hour presentation. As I have moved through the pre-program 1-1 calls the focus and interest areas have emerged for the different groups. This has allowed me to quickly pull together draft agendas which either go directly to the team and/or organizer for consideration. It certainly has made it much easier to be planning for multiple new programs this month.

How might a modular approach benefit your program design?

Best wishes,
Jenn

Jennifer Britton, MES, PCC, CPCC
GroupCoachingEssentials.com
Next Group Coaching Essentials teleclass starts Tuesday/tomorrow Feb 5th at 2 pm Eastern. Group calls held Feb 5, 12, 19, 26 and March 5, 2013 (Tuesdays 2-3:15 pm Eastern/New York). 6.75 CCEs. Three spots still open.
Phone: (416)996-8326

33 Ways to Promote Your Next Group Program - Workshop, Retreat, Group Coaching

33 Ways to promote Your Next Group Program:

Not quite sure as to how you want to let others know about your next workshop, retreat or group coaching program? Here are 33 ways to get your creative juices flowing.

Announce it in your next e-newsletter
Blog About It
Tweet About it
Invite the Media to your Event
Talk about it at your speaking engagements
Participate in tradeshows attracting your idea group member
Hold a special free call in advance
Send postcards with a special personalized invite out
Talk about it with current clients
Tell your family and friends about it and have them talk about it
Network through professional associations
Get Really Clear on Who you Want to Attend and target their
Retreat listing services
Teleclass listing services
Craigslist
Partners with others
Offer an early bird special for early registration
Offer a discount for people who sign up with others (where laws permit)
See if the facility you are holding it at can promote it
Put it in your marketing budgt
Notices
Email signatures
Notify current telesemianr/group coaching clints
Write articles – build your platform!
Go out to colleges and universities to speak
Make sure that there is a notice on your website
Send a news release about the event
Put up local notices where appropriate (community centers etc)
Announce it to other social networks you belong to in their promos section
Create a Facebook announcement
Donate a spot in a silent auction
Create a series of podcasts which add value and announce your event
Develop a viral marketing campaign

Remember successful marketing is about building relationships, adding value and consistently sharing your message. You may not undertake all activities today, but which ones do you want to add to your marketing plan this quarter?

Warm regards,

Jennifer

Jennifer Britton

Author of Effective Group Coaching - Check out the book for many more ideas, and structures to support you in your next group coaching marketing

6th Annual Year End Group Programs Call - You are invited!

I'm back from Orlando to our first snowfall here in Toronto. I had a blast at this year's ICF conference and wanted to thank the coaches who joined me on Saturday for my session on Group Coaching. I will be gettin the materials out later this week to you as promised.


In the meantime, I wanted to remind everyone about my 6th Annual Year End Group Programs call. The call will be held this Friday, December 11th from 12-1 pm ET at (218)862-1300, access 503003. No charge to join other than your own long distance phone charges. Do join me for some time to reflect on where you want to take your group programs next year (workshops, retreats and/or group coaching), as well as some of my favorite tools from this year.

Looking forward to having you join me on Friday!

Warm regards,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CPCC
Group Coaching Essentials
Phone: 416.996.8326
Email: info{at}potentialsrealized{dot}com

PS - I've got two other programs happening this week if you are eager to get programs starting in January. The Group Program Virtual Intensive will be held this Wednesday evening from 7-10 pm ET as well as on Wed December 16th. I'm also offering an accelerated version of the Group Coaching Essentials programs starting this Friday at 10:30 am ET for coaches who are eager to launch their programs in January. This program is accredited for 6.25 CCEs, and 4 of the calls will be held in December, with the final call in early January. Contact me if you'd like to join either program.

Upcoming Programs - Get a Head Start on your Spring programs!

I'll be holding a number of phone based programin the next few weeks for those of you who are looking for some quick booster shots for your own group programs. It's perfect timing for those who are gearing up for spring group program launches!

I hope that you will consider joining me for one of the following:

Friday February 1, 2008 from 12 - 1:30 pm (EST) the Tips and Tools for Your Workshop or Retreat Program. This one and a half hour teleseminar covers 10 Key tips and tools to keep in mind as you design, deliver and market your next workshop or retreat program, for the public or corporations. You also receive a 20 page e-workbook as part of this call, which is full of tools for use after the call. You are also encouraged to bring their specific questions to the call so you can walk way with exactly what you need. Space is limited to 6 to ensure maximum interaction. Cost: $45 US (which includes e-workbook and 1.5 hour call. Long distance charges are extra).

Tuesday February 5, 2008 from 6:30 - 8pm (EST): Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups. Looking to inject your next workshop, retreat or group coaching program with some new exercises? This 1.5 hour call covers the A-Z of exercises for teams and groups. You will leave the call with at least 25 new exercises to use as icebreakers/warmups, energizers or closure. You also receive the electronic edition of the Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual (85 pages) as part of this call. Space is limited to 6
Cost: $59 US


Download a registration form here to register for these calls.

For those looking for a more in-depth program in supporting them to launch their own group coaching program for the spring, I will be offering two separate classes of the Group Coaching Essentials program in February. Both classes will be held on Thursdays starting February 21st. Choose from:
10:30 - 11:45 am (EST) OR
8 - 9:15 pm (EST)

Both sessions are held by phone and sessions will be held on February 21, 28, March 6 and 13, plus a call in early April (at a date convenient for the group).

If you are looking to launch your own group coaching program, coaching workshop or coaching retreat this spring I hope that you will join me for the series. You'll leave the program with a new toolbox of resources, activities and templates to support you in your group coaching program development, implementation and marketing. This program has been offered since January 2006 and coaches from all over the world have now participated. Click here for more information about the program. Cost $250 US or Canadian. Space is limited (usual program size between 4-6 coaches. Maximum 8).

I will be offering a special mid-winter registration rate for coaches who sign up with a colleague for the February Group Coaching Essentials program. You will each enjoy a 20% discount on your registration (total investment $200 US or Canadian each). This pricing is only available for the February session. A great deal as I am also available for 1-1 support throughout your program (as well as for a pre- and post- 1-1 session). If you were to purchase all that time doing individual work with me your cost would be over $1500. I look forward to having you in the Group Coaching Essentials program next month.

To register for any of the programs, please give me a call toll free at 1-866-217-1960 or email me at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com. You can also download a registration form here.

Warmly,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP, CPCC
Potentials Realized
GroupCoachingEssentials.com

Group Coaching Essentials starts Wednesday evening

ttJust a quick reminder that the Group Coaching Essentials program starts Wednesday evening by phone. We'll be meeting on Wednesdays from 8-9:15 pm (EST) on January 9, 16, 23 and 30th, as well as for a fifth call in March (at a time convenient to the group).

If you are looking to develop your own group coaching program this winter or spring, and want a supportive environment to boost your momentum, and add onto your toolkit in terms of resources, templates and exercises for group coaching, I hope that you will consider joining me tomorrow evening.

The program covers:
* The Foundation of Group Coaching – What is Group Coaching, Best Practices of Group Coaching, and Adult Learning Principles
* The Nuts and Bolts of Developing Group Coaching – Making Your Program Development Fun and Effective: Technical issues, Techniques and Templates for Developing and Running Your Program
* Marketing Group Coaching – Knowing Your Audience, General Marketing Principles and Materials
* Filling Up Your Toolbox – Exercises and Other Resources for Group Coaching

Included in your program registration are:
* 5 x 75 minute teleclasses
* The 85 page Group Coaching Essentials manual
* Pre and post course 1-1s with me
* Up to 2 hours of Support from me as needed throughout the program (at no extra cost - value $400).

Cost: $250 US or Canadian

The Group Coaching Essentials program is a very interactive, intimate teleseminar program. Program size is limited to 4-6 coaches to ensure maximum attention. Most coaches complete the program with at least one, and sometimes two, new group coaching designs and marketing ideas.

If you are interested in grabbing one of the remaining spots in this month's program, please email me at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com or call me toll free: 1-866-217-196o.

The next Group Coaching Essentials program will be held in February on Thursdays from 8-9:15pm (EST) on February 21, 28, March 6, 13 plus our fifth call in April at a time convenient to the group.

If Workshop and Retreats are what you want to create, there is a new start date for this month's Workshop and Retreat Essentials program. This program will be held on Mondays from 8-9:15 pm (EST) on January 14, 21, 28, Feburary 4 and March 3, 2008. For more information, click here.

Upcoming January 2008 Programs

I have a number of program offerings this month designed to kick start your year. I hope that you will consider joining me for one of the following this month:

Programs Related to Workshops, Retreats and Group Program Design and Facilitation:

Workshop and Retreat Essentials – Mondays 8-9:15 pm (EST), Monday January 7, 14, 21, 28, plus a fifth call March. Cost $250 US
This program includes a treasurechest of tools, tips and resources to support you in your workshop or retreat development. I also cover essential tips to developing your own virtual retreats. Five sessions, and pre and post-course 1-1s with me, along with a 90 page manual.

Group Coaching Essentials – Wednesdays 8-9:15 pm (EST), January 9, 16, 23, 30, plus a fifth call in March. Cost $250 US
The ever popular Group Coaching Essentials program will be offered again this month. If you are a coach wanting to offer group coaching to your clients this program is for you. Full of tips, tools, exercises and other resources, you will leave the program with your own group coaching program design. Space is limited to 6. You also have pre and post course 1-1s with me, and a 90 page manual.

Tips and Tools for Your Workshop or Retreat – Friday February 1, 2008, 12 – 1:30 pm (EST). Cost: $45 US
For those wanting a booster shot of tips and tools, this program covers 10 essential tips for your group programs, ranging from development tips, to marketing and implementation solutions. You also receive the Tips and Tools Workbook as part of this program (also sold separately).

Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups – Tuesday February 5, 2008, 6:30 – 8pm (EST). Cost $59 US (includes an electronic copy of the Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual).
Looking for some exercises to spice up your next workshop, retreat or group coaching program? This 1.5 hour teleseminar is for you. Bring all your questions about exercises and have them answered, and leave with a bulging new exercise toolkit.

Business Development Programs for Small Business Owners:

Biz Success Virtual Business Planning Retreat
6 hours of structured focus on your business planning and growth. This retreat is held virtually by phone and each hour of the program involves group activity (10 – 15 minutes) with the remaining part of the hour. 3 different sessions are offered this month to ensure your business starts off great for 2008! Take your pick from:
BVR-081: Saturday January 5 (10 - 4pm EST)
BVR -082: Sunday January 13 (10 - 4pm EST)
BVR-083: Thursday January 17 and 24 (7-1opm EST both evenings)
Your investment: $150 US (includes the Biz Retreat, a group follow up call, and the Biz Success Planning Manual)

90 Day Biz Success Program – Fridays 12 – 1 pm (EST), Starts January 11
A small group coaching program for new and experienced business owners who want to amp up their business results. The program includes 7 group calls on topics including business vision, leveraging technology for your business, Essential Business Systems and developing your Business Roadmap. You also receive 36 e-biz tips by email and have pre-and-post program 1-1s with me. Space is limited to 6. $297 for the program.

General Interest:
Women on Fire Group Coaching - Tuesdays from 8-9pm (EST) from January 15 - March 4, 2008

If you don’t feed the fire, it will go out. Where do you need to fan the flames?
Imagine if you could sit around a roaring bonfire every week for 7 weeks with a community of women who are looking to create more spark in their lives, sharing stories, gaining insights and tools, and supporting each other to step up to a more passionate and intrinsically fulfilling life. Join Sharon Miller, PCC and I as we create a virtual campfire, enabling you to ignite, explore, rediscover, and focus on creating a life on fire! (Space is limited to 8). Cost: $300 US or Canadian.

Download a program registration form here for all our Winter Programs here. Registrations are accepted by phone, fax and email. Payment options: PayPal, Visa (by phone), personal check.

You can reserve your spot at any time by calling toll free (across North America): 1-866-217-1960 or by emailing me at jennifer@potentialsrealized.com.

And coming soon -
The announcement of the May 2 and 3, 2008 Group Program Intensive in Toronto. Two days of information rich, skills based activities to support you in your group program design and facilitation. Information packages will be available early next week with an early bird discount in effect to March 1, 2008.

Have a wonderful month,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

My favorite posts from 2007

I hope that you have been enjoying your holiday and have managed to fit in some downtime. I've been relishing the time that I've had to spend with my family as well as some recharging of my batteries.

I was back in the office today facilitating the Group Program Virtual Intensive. I've run two of the programs in the last few weeks and continue to be amazed at the results participants are taking away. Most participants have taken away not just one, but two, new group programs as a result of the six hours of structured focus and exercises the program offers. Most participants have said one of the most beneficial parts of the program is the coaching that goes with the program to keep them in momentum.

If you've missed the last two programs, don't worry, I've got another one scheduled for March 10 and 12, 2008 (7-10 pm EST both evenings) and I will likely announce another new session for those who want to get a jumpstart on their group programs in January.

Here's a list of my favorite blog posts from the Group Coaching Ins and Outs blog for the year. I hope that you will take a moment and click on over -- you are guaranteed to take away some new tips for your programs!


1. Group Facilitation Tip – Co-Facilitation:

2. 5 Ways to Use Index Cards for Your Group Programs

3. Current Trends in Learning and Development:
6 current trends from this year's ASTD International Conference in June 2007

4. Selecting a Venue for Your Group Program:

5. Dealing with Difficult Participants:

6. Group Failitation Tip – Debrief Exercises

7. Group Facilitation Tip – Preparation:

8. Best Practices for Group Coaching

9. Group Coaching Best Practices Part 2

10. Workshop, Retreat and Group Coaching Checklist:

What were your favorite blog posts here this year? Which ones did you find most useful? As always, please feel free to comment below!

Warm regards,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

Join Me Friday for the Tips and Tools for Your Workhshop or Retreat Teleseminar

Are you looking for some quick tips and tools for your next workshop or retreat program? Join me this coming Friday, October 26th from 12 - 1:30 pm (EST) for a 1.5 hour teleseminar. During the program we will explore 10 tips and tools to amp up your next group program.

By the end of the program, participants will:

• Explore common challenges for group program leaders, and what to do to navigate them;
• Acquire a basic understanding of adult learning principles;
• Have a framework to "Know Your Client"
• Brainstorm ideas on marketing and promotion for your next event
• Learn how to not reinvent the wheel with your group programs and other service offerings
• Get ideas about engaging exercises to include in their group programs
• And learn about two of my favorite best practices

This is an interactive, intimate teleseminar, with space limited to 8. Participants are encouraged to bring any, and all, questions you have about group programs to the call. You'll also receive a 20 page workbook to take forward for your own group program development. The cost of the program is $45 US.

To reserve your spot and pay by PayPal, please visit: http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com/pages/workshoptipsandtools. If you have questions or would like to register by phone, please call me toll free at 1-866-217-1960.

I hope that you will join me on Friday for an action packed hour and a half!

With best wishes,

Jennifer

Workshop, Retreat and Group Coaching Program Checklist

My trip last week was a reminder of how important it is to be organized when you are running programs away from your home base. For several years I ran programs in countries outside of where I was based. This meant that I had to get pretty savvy on making sure that everything was ready well in advance to the workshop or retreat. There really was no running back to the office to pick up something that I had forgotten.

I developed a pretty in-depth checklist of things to remember prior to a program and wanted to share some of these with you today.

Here are some of the pieces of my checklist that has been tried and tested throughout the years:

* Venue Arrangements (see my separate post on this topic)

* Participant Materials
a. Make Sure you have sufficient copies of materials for all participants plus one
b. Copy of handout/participant material for yourself
c. Your own design notes
d. Materials required for any exercises

* Computer and LCD Projector
a. Necessary powercords
b. Mouse/Pointer as needed
c. All passwords as needed

* Miscellaneous training kit:
* Glue Sticks, Flip chart paper, masking tape, blue tack, index cards of varying sizes,
* post it notes, markers, pens, pencils, stickers,
* participant name tags or name cards
* Prizes for participants
* Clock/watch to keep the time

Some of these materials may be provided by the venue -- check with them, as well as what additional charges they may levy.

Are there any other items you add to your travelling training kit? Please feel free to comment below.

Have a wonderful week,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials - the next Group Coaching Essentials program starts on Thursdays from 8-9:15pm (EST) on October 11th.
Toll free: 1-866-217-1960
Email: jennifer{AT} potentialsrealized.com

Selecting A Venue for Your Group Program

Selecting a Venue for Your Workshop, Retreat or Group Coaching Program
Copyright 2007 - Jennifer Britton, All Rights Reserved

Selecting the right venue for your group program - whether it is a workshop, retreat or group coaching program - can be a time consuming and challenging process for those who are not logistically savvy. Here are some things to consider when selecting your next venue:

1.Ease of accessibility for your participants – Consider the needs of your participants:
* Is there parking?
* Is it free/at cost?
* What modes of transport will participants be able to take to get there?

2.The environment –
* What is the feel of the venue?
* Does it match the environment you want to create?
* Is there sufficient space for you to undertake the exercises you want to do?
* What changes if any will need to be made with the room layout?
* Are there additional rooms available if you need breakout sessions?
* What is their policy regarding participants using other parts of the facility – any areas out of bounds?

3. Room booking charges –
* How much will it cost to retain the space?
* Are deposits refundable? What is their payment policy?
* What is their cancellation policy?
* If numbers change near the towards the launch of the program, what impact will this have on pricing?

4. Insurance – Many facilities require that you hold sufficient liability insurance. What are their requirements? What insurance do you need to put in place?

5. Meals –
* What dietary requirements do your participants have? Food allergies?
* Can your needs be met by the facility? In your budget?
* What are their offerings/special packages?
* What are the exact times for breaks and other meals?
* What is the venue’s policy on ordering or providing lunch?
* Will there be sufficient time with your schedule to have all participants eat leisurely through the lunch period? What if numbers change before the program? Can meal amounts be modified? Up to what date?

6. Equipment Rental – often venues will provide certain pieces of equipment (flip charts, markers) at cost or sometimes free. Clarify what is included in the room rental, and what might need to be rented at additional cost. Also inquire what their policy is regarding bringing your equipment in from your organization – is this allowed?

These are some of the nitty gritty issues you may want to consider as you select your next venue. Are there other things you consider when selecting your group program venues? Please feel free to comment below.

With best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP, CPT
Group Coaching Essentials
Workshop and Retreat Essentials starts Wed Sept 12th (8-9:15 pm EST Wed by phone: Sept 12 and 26, Oct 3 and 10/07)
Email: jennifer{at}potentialsrealized.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

To reproduce or reprint this article, please contact Jennifer at jennifer{at}potentialsrealized.com

Post Retreat Bliss

I'm still post-retreat bliss after running an incredible retreat this weekend with fellow relationship systems coach, Sharon Miller.

Five months ago, Sharon and I met at an ORSC training weekend, finding out pretty quickly that we both had a passion for the Muskoka area (and interestingly enough family roots going back generations to the same village) and for bringing relationship work into the group context. The idea of the Relationships on Fire!(TM) retreat was born.

This past weekend, Sharon and I were very pleased to bring Relationships on Fire! into the real world, and had a wonderful time facilitating our launch retreat this past weekend here in Muskoka.

The Relationships on Fire! retreat is a one day retreat for committed couples, designed to enable couples to ignite, rediscover, explore and focus their relationship. We've had so many requests that we are going to bring Relationships on Fire!(TM) down from the North Country, and we will be offering a one or 1.5 day retreat in Toronto this winter. Please keep posted about upcoming dates.

This weekend was a reminder of how much I enjoy in-person retreat work. Many of you may know that a large part of my retreat work in the last year has moved into the virtual realm - also a real blast - but to me, nothing can replace the spirit and connectedness of an in-person retreat - hence the bliss I am still feeling a few days later.

If you are looking to launch your own retreats this fall -- virtual or in person - I hope that you will consider joining me for the Workshop and Retreat Essentials teleseminar program. This October will celebrate the 3rd Anniversary of the program (Wow! I myself can't believe it, either can the hundreds of alumni of the program).

The Workshop and Retreat Essentials program will launch on September 12th and will be held on Wednesdays from 8-9:15 pm (EST) on September 12, 26, October 3 and 10 (plus a fifth group call in November). The cost of the program is $250 US, and includes all 5 calls, an 80 page e-manual, plus support from me throughout the program.

Click the link for more details. I cover tons of details to get you up and running for launching your own retreat or workshop (in person and virtual). Space is limited to 8 to ensure maximum participation -- contact me if you'd like to reserve a spot! You can register and pay by PayPal at the weblink here.

Have a great week,
Jenn

Jennifer Britton, PCC, CHRP, CPCC
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Email: jennifer{at}potentialsrealized{dot}com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

July Program Line-up - Boost Your Programs this Month

As we are moving into the heat of the summer, I am asking myself, “When will it slow down?”. It’s been a busy spring and summer for me, as it has been for many of the coaches I have been working with. Summer is one of the most popular times of year for participants to take in a workshop, a retreat or invest in themselves. Are you leveraging this?

This month, we have a number of programs to support you with your own workshop, retreat or group coaching program development, implementation and marketing. I hope that you will consider joining me for one of our upcoming programs:

Group Coaching Essentials – Starts Tuesday July 17th
(Tuesdays 10:30 – 11:45 am EST: July 17, 24, August 2 and 9/07, plus a call in September – By Phone)

The Group Coaching Essentials provides you with a step by step process, and toolkit, to support you in developing, marketing and implementing your own group coaching program – whether it is in person, by phone, corporate or personal. This is an interactive, hands-on program.

The program covers:
* The Foundations of Group Coaching – What it Is, Best Practices, Adult Learning
* The Nuts and Bolts of Developing Group Coaching – Making Your Program Development Fun and Effective: Technical issues, Techniques and Templates for Developing and Running Your Program
* Marketing Group Coaching – Knowing Your Audience, General Marketing Principles and Materials
* Filling Up Your Toolbox – Exercises and Other Resources for Group Coaching

You receive:
· 5 x 75 minute teleseminar calls
· A pre- and post-course individual call with me
· A 75 Page E-Manual
· Support as needed from me throughout the program (by phone and/or email)

"Group Coaching Essentials is a wonderful laboratory for learning key concepts about adult learning, instructional design, group dynamics and more. Jennifer Britton's wonderfully organic facilitation style allows each session to be a flowing, dynamic group conversation that is rich in learning and personal insights! I recommmend this program for anyone who wants to gain confidence, knowledge and resources in preparation for launching their own group coaching program"
- Erin Curran, CPCC, http://www.erincurrancoaching.com

Cost: $225 US. To register, contact Jennifer at 1-866-217-1960 or pay by PayPal here . Space is limited to 6-8 coaches.

Tips and Tools for Your Workshop or Retreat
Tuesday July 17th: 4 – 5:30 pm (EST) – By Phone
During this one and a half hour call we will cover ten tips and tools to get you moving forward with your workshops and retreats, including exercises, marketing tips and networking advice. I will discuss systems and tools to make your program development and marketing easy and fun. You will leave the call with a number of concrete tools to add to your own workshop/retreat toolbox. The teleseminar also includes an E-Workbook to assist you in your workshop design process.

“I found the "Tips and Tools for Your Workshop and Retreat" most interesting. It opened up a whole new perspective to me about marketing and how to organize my workshops. And most of all how quality information is much better than quantity, and to stay focused at all times. I thank Jennifer for the time she took to put this workshop together and her quality of service and dedication. Thank you Jennifer!” - Inga Bertlemann, Coach, Pathways to Bliss
Cost: $39 US

Register and Pay by PayPal here: http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com/pages/workshoptipsandtools


And if you are looking for something for yourself, I hope that you will consider:
Your Balanced Life Virtual Retreat - Saturday July 14/07 (10 – 4pm EST)
Join me and 7 other participants for a one-day virtual retreat, held by phone. You can retreat from the comfort of your own home or cottage while gaining valuable tools for balance. The group meets by phone for the first 15-20 minutes of each hour, with the remaining time spent undertaking individual exercises off-line.

The program includes the one-day virtual retreat, a group follow-up call and a retreat manual. You also receive a follow-up 30 minute coaching call with Jennifer.

Cost: $97 US.
For more information, to register and/or pay by PayPal here: http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com/pages/balancevirtualretreat

Relationships on Fire! – A one day retreat for committed couples
Saturday August 25/07 (9:30 – 4:30 pm) – Huntsville, Ontario, Canada
Join myself and PCC Sharon Miller, with your partner/spouse or significant other to take your relationship from good to great.
During the day you will acquire practical tools to:
IGNITE: Rekindle your friendship, connection and relationship
REDISCOVER: Enhance understanding of each other’s needs, dreams and what’s important
EXPLORE: Go beyond your habitual understanding of each other, yourself, and your relationship
FOCUS: Take away a Couple Game Plan and Alliance
Early Bird pricing of $399 Cdn/per couple is in effect to July 15th and includes the one-day retreat, lunch, a couples workbook and retreat manual, plus a follow-up couple and group coaching session (by phone). For more info please visit: http://www.retreat2muskoka.com/.

I look forward to hearing from you!

With best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
Email: jennifer[at]potentialsrealized[dot]com

Workshop and Retreat Essentials Teleseminar starts Monday the 18th

Are you looking to launch your own workshop or retreat program this summer? If so, I hope that you will consider joining me for the Workshop and Retreat Essentials teleseminar program which starts on Monday June 18th from 7 - 8:15 pm (EST). We will be meeting for five teleseminar sessions on June 18, 25, July 9, 16th and one session in August (scheduled at a time convenient for the group).

The Workshop and Retreat Essentials program gives you an entire toolkit for developing successful workshop and retreat programs for your clients. From design tools and templates, to exercises to marketing tips, the program makes designing your programs fun, simple and exciting! Since the program launched in October 2004 (originally called the Training Essentials for Coaches program), over 100 participants have taken it from across North America, Europe and as far away as New Zealand. I hope that you will consider joining me!

The program includes:
* 5 x 75 minute teleseminar sessions
* A pre- and post-course 1-1 coaching session with me, and additional support as requested throughout the program
* An 85 page manual (delivered in modules electronically)
* A supportive environment to take your ideas and turn them into reality
* Dozens of tools, templates and exercises you can use right away
* Participation in free quarterly community calls for alumnae of the program

Topics include:
* Adult Learning Principles, Learning Styles, the Nuts and Bolts of Developing Effective Programs
* Workshop and Retreat Design Tools and Templates
* Logistical tips to make your programs run smoothly (including checklists)
* Exercises you can use in your own programs
* Marketing Ideas for your programs

Click here for a full description of the program.

The program is limited to 8 participants to ensure maximum interaction during our sessions. The cost of the program is $225 US (with PayPal and phone based Visa payment options).

For more information about the program, click here.
To download a registration form and reserve your spot, click here.

I hope that you will consider joining me and 7 others this month! To reserve your spot, call me toll free at 1-866-217-1960, or use the PayPal link at the bottom of the program page.

Questions? Please feel free to email me at jennifer(at) potentialsrealized(dot)com.

I look forward to having you join me this month. Note the program will not run again until October and the price will be going up then.

With best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Potentials Realized
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960
Email: jennifer(at) potentialsrealized(dot)com
Web: http://www.groupcoachingessentials.com

Tips and Tools for Your Workshop or Retreat : Friday at 12 noon (EST)

This Friday May 4th I will be hosting a 1.5 hour teleseminar program entitled "Tips and Tools for Your Workshop or Retreat" from 12 - 1:30 pm (EST).

Looking for some quick tips and tools to inject into your programs, or just starting to think about how to create a workshop or retreat? This one and a half hour session provides you with nine tips and tools to get you moving forward with your workshops and retreats, including exercises, marketing tips and design advice. Participants are also encouraged to bring their own questions to the call.

The teleseminar also includes an E-Workbook to assist you in your workshop design process.

The cost for this program is a steal at $39 US and will get you moving forward quickly with some new tools for your toolbox, and ideas for your programs.

You can register by emailing me at info@potentialsrealized.com with Tips and Tools in the Subject Line, or calling me toll free at 1-866-217-1960. Download a registration form here. Payment is accepted by Visa (by phone or fax) or PayPal (link to be sent to you by email).

I look forward to having you join me!

With best wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT
Group Coaching Essentials ~ Potentials Realized

If you want more than just a few tips and tools and a whole system to put your workshops or retreats together, the next Workshop and Retreat Essentials program will start on June 18th on Mondays from 7-8:15 pm (EST). This is a two month program, with calls held on June 18, 25, July 9 and 16th with a fifth call held in August (at a time scheduled by the group). You also have access to me for 1-1 support as needed during the course of the program, and receive an extensive reference manual. The cost for this program is $225 US. For more information on the Workshop and Retreat Essentials program, click here.

Marketing Success for Your Group Programs

I am in the process right now of setting my 2007 group coaching, workshop and retreat programs. Have you started thinking about what you are going to be offering next year?

Marketing is a critical component of group program success -- even with the best program it won't be a success without participants.

If you are wanting to launch a new program in early 2007, now is the time to turn some of your attention to marketing. Here are a few things to consider as you move forward with your marketing efforts:

1. Know Your Audience - The way you market your program - when, where and how - really comes down to Knowing Your Audience. Marketing a corporate program is going to have a very different approach than a public program. For tips on getting to know your audience, email me for a complimentary copy of the Group Coaching Client Assessment. Your client base will inform everything from when, where and how you offer your program, to how much you charge, to the topics which are covered.

2. Develop a marketing strategy -- Do you have a marketing plan, budget and strategy in place? If not, now is the time to start. What concrete action steps will you take? How will you let people know about your program? What budget do you have available?

3. Persevere - Marketing is about consistent effort. We are bombarded on a daily basis with up to 5000 marketing messages from large and small companies. It may take a consumer 7-11 exposures with your message before they decide to buy. How can you get your message out continuously?

4. Timing - I often get asked about when you should start marketing. Take a look at your participant base -- do they tend to get booked months in advance or are they a last minute shopper who can attend programs with short notice? If you are looking to launch a program for the new year, now is a great time to start marketing -- prior to the deluge of other holiday messages. You may also want to take the opportunity to send out special notices to people you know along with any holiday greetings. Continue with your marketing efforts right up until the start of your program (but don't make this an excuse to delay starting your marketing now). I am often amazed at how many last minute registrants I will get. Note that last minute registration for an in person program is often less than last minute for a phone-based program.

5. Systematize - Make marketing easy for yourself. Pieces that you will want to consider having in place are the following:

• Program overview -- including venue, dates, times, what's included, and most importantly, what are the benefits for the participants in taking your program
• Registration forms -- online or other
• Payment options - how will you receive payment? Do you have credit facilitites in place?
• How do you want to get the message out -- ezine? blog? word of mouth?
• Referral Networks - who else can help you get the message out?

5. Build Relationships with prospects: Research shows that people buy from those who they trust. How well do your potential clients know you? What do you have to support them in their goals?

6. Make it Consistent - How can marketing become a part of your everyday work? Marketing requires consistent effort. I often use the metaphor of a snowball -- once it gains enough momentum, it can take on a life of its' own. Ask yourself what are five things I can do this week to move my marketing efforts forward? These don't all have to be big - consistent effort is the key.

Keep these strategies in mind as you move forward with your 2007 marketing efforts.

Are there some marketing success strategies you would like to share? Please feel free to comment below. I look forward to hearing from you!

Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, CPCC, CHRP, CPT

Potentials Realized/ Group Coaching Essentials

For those interested, I am offering a 2007 Marketing Tune Up for Your Group Programs. This includes two 30 minute sessions with me by phone, to work on your marketing plan, budget, strategy or message. I will have 5 tune ups available until December 20th at $145 USD/each ($30 off my regular rate). Is it time for your tune up? To book your marketing tune up please contact me toll free at 1-866-217-1960 or by email. I look forward to hearing from you!

Amazing Resource for Group Activities and Exercises: Wilderdom.com

Keeping in the theme of powerful and engaging exercises for small groups, I wanted to share a great link with you to Wilderdom - www.wilderdom.com. If you are looking for some free resources to incorporate into your next program check out their index of group activities at www.wilderdom.com/games. There is also great information about outdoor and experiential education, as well as quotes on inspiration, life and wilderness.

As a former outdoor and experiential educator myself, I was so pleased to come across this fantastic site which originates from James Neill in Australia. Thank you James for putting this amazing body of work together.

Enjoy checking out the site! I'll be back later this week with more on games, and a special offer on my Engaging Exercises for Teams and Groups Manual.

Jennifer
Jennifer Britton ~ Potentials Realized
Web: www.groupcoachingessentials.com and www.potentialsrealized.com
Email: jennifer@potentialsrealized.com
Toll Free: 1-866-217-1960

A few spaces still remain for the next Group Coaching Essentials program which starts next Tuesday October 3rd at 10:45 - 12 noon(EST). The dates for the program are: Oct. 3, 17, 24 and 31st (note a slight change to originally published dates as a client has booked me to run an all day retreat on the 10th).

You'll participate in 5 x 75 minute teleseminars on the HOW TOs for developing and marketing your group coaching programs. You'll also receive a 70 page manual, full of information, resources and links to support you in your program development, marketing and implementation. In addition, all participants can access me for 1-1 meetings throughout the course of the program at no extra charge. The cost for the program is $225 USD.

This program is hands-on and interactive - space is limited to 8 coaches. Click here for an overview of the program. Downloadable registration forms are available here. Please email or phone to reserve your spot. I look forward to serving you!