Working for a Doula Agency
Posted on:
May 15, 2023 | Doula
Being a doula is an incredibly rewarding career. However, running a doula business doesn’t exactly have the same charm for some… Working for a doula agency may be the answer!
The following are some steps to take if you are considering becoming an independent contractor for a doula agency:
- Research doula agencies in your area
Start by doing a Google search for doula agencies in your area. Once you have found some, research their services, and their reputation. You can do this by looking at their google reviews and by reading testimonials from their previous clients.
- If you haven’t already, attend a doula training and complete your certification
Most doula agencies require certification from a recognized doula training organization, like ProDoula. Some will only bring on doulas trained and certified by their preferred training organization, so be sure to ask about that ahead of time.
- Prepare yourself to apply to an agency
Some agencies will guide you on your journey to becoming a doula. They may even be hosting a doula training in order to support their growing clientele. Others will expect that you will have already gained the necessary training and certifications. Additionally, start polishing up your resume.
- Do your homework
Take a deep dive into the agencies you plan to apply with. Look for professional agencies that have solid systems in place who are actively working to acquire clients. You want to be sure that the agency has enough work to satisfy your income requirements. One way you can tell how actively they are pursuing this is by the consistency of their social media posts.
- Apply to doula agencies
Some doula agencies have a page on their website with instructions on how to apply to work with them. If so, follow their instructions. If not, be prepared to share your resume, proof of your doula certification(s), a copy of your First Aid and CPR certifications, and proof of doula liability insurance.
- Prepare for interviews and assessments
If the agency is looking to bring on doulas, the owner (or owners) of the doula agency will invite you to meet with you for an interview. Keep in mind that they are trying to determine how well they believe you will be received by their clients.
- ProTip: Working for a doula agency takes confidence! Bring your confidence, and exude positive energy. Leave the agency owner feeling better after having spent the time with you than they did before you came!
- Expect to be asked to form a legal business for yourself. Don’t panic! Lol.
What this means is that you will need to formalize yourself in order to provide services as an independent contractor, accept payments, and file your taxes. You can easily form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) through your state’s website, and have everything in order within just a couple of weeks. Some agencies will even walk you through the process if you need a little guidance!
- Continue building on your education
Once you start working for a doula agency, continue to improve your skills and knowledge by taking additional trainings in various birth related modalities. This will help you stay up-to-date with the latest research, and make you more marketable for the agency’s clients.
By following these steps, you can start working for a doula agency and making a positive impact on the lives of expectant families in your area without having the stress and worry involved with growing a doula business!
