Mistakes to Avoid at Your Doula Interviews (and What to Do Instead)
You landed the client interview - congratulations! Whether you're just getting started as a doula or have been in this work for years, client interviews are an essential part of being a doula. You're stepping into someone’s pregnancy or postpartum journey, and they’re looking for someone they can trust. That first impression matters.
Doula interviews can feel a little awkward, especially if you’re unsure what to say or how to talk about your services. But they don’t have to be. A few small shifts can make a big difference when it comes to connecting with the right families and booking more clients. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid during your doula interviews—and what to do instead.
Showing Up to Your Doula Interview Unprepared
No, you don’t need a script, but you do need to be prepared. When you forget to prepare, it is likely noticeable to the the prospective client… you might ramble, forget your pricing, or sound unsure about your services. That doesn't build trust. Take a few minutes before the interview to review what services you’re offering, your pricing structure, and any notes you have on the client themselves. If they filled out an inquiry form, read through it and make notes about any questions you have about what they shared or what details they missed. Bring those questions up during your interview. This shows you’re paying attention, are thinking about how to support them, and interested in getting to know them more.
Talking The Whole Time
Doulas are natural nurturers and educators, and sometimes that means we accidentally dominate the conversation. Don’t spend the whole interview listing everything you’ve ever done or every service you offer. Ask questions. Be curious about their birth plan, their postpartum needs, their hopes, fears, and concerns. Invite them to share their story. Your job is to listen first, then explain how you can support their needs.
Being Vague About Your Pricing
Many doulas hesitate when it’s time to talk about money. Maybe you’re still unsure about your rates or don’t want to scare someone off with how much you charge or maybe you have imposter syndrome and don’t think your fees are worth it. But when you say things like “I’m flexible” or “It depends,” it can come off as disorganized or unprofessional. Know your rates and what is included in your services. Practice saying them out loud and with confidence. You deserve to be paid for your time and energy and that will come across in your interview when you speak confidently about the support you provide.
Skipping Boundaries and Expectations
When you’re eager to book a client, you might find yourself agreeing to anything they ask. But not clarifying your boundaries can lead to confusion or resentment down the road. Talk about what’s included in your services, how you handle communication (ex: how quickly you respond when a client calls you for emergencies or non-emergencies), your on-call hours, and how many visits are built into your packages. If you’re a postpartum doula, explain how scheduling works and how far in advance you need to know about shifts. Clear expectations protect you and build trust.
Forgetting to Follow Up
Even after a great interview, it’s possible the client may forget to follow through. Life is busy. You don’t have to sit and wait. Send a simple thank-you email or message within 24 hours. Let them know you enjoyed connecting, remind them of any next steps, and include a link to your contract or booking page if appropriate. Following up might seem pushy, but it isn’t. It shows that you’re professional, organized, and excited about the prospect to work with this family.
Remember, you are also deciding if they are the right fit for you. If something feels off during the interview, trust your gut. You don’t have to accept every client that comes your way. Even if the family doesn’t feel like a right fit, it’s the professional thing to let them know. You don’t necessarily have to tell them why, but sending them a message stating that you’re no longer available provides closure and gives them freedom to continue their doula search.
Doula interviews aren’t about being perfect or super polished and it’s important to show up authentically and confidently. View interviews as an opportunity to build connection and trust and exploring the possibility of working together.
Want extra support as you prep for your next interview? We created a free Doula Prenatal and Interview Checklist to help you walk in with clarity, confidence, and a solid plan. Download it now at and take the guesswork out of your client process.