The Curse of Knowledge – How to Stop Confusing Your Clients

In this episode, Jo & Vicky tackle what they call the "curse of knowledge" something they see a lot within the dog training industry. There is a strong tendency for trainers to use expert jargon and too much technical detail to the point where clients struggle to connect with and understand their dog trainer - a frustrating experience for both parties. Through personal stories and industry insights, they share practical ways to simplify your message, build a genuine connection with each client and stop overwhelming or confusing them. KEY TAKEAWAYS Overuse of technical terms and industry-specific language may alienate potential clients—plain language is essential for connection e.g. Members of the public still call themselves dog owners rather than dog guardians. Genuine communication and empathy bridge the gap between you and your clients. They foster trust and encourage engagement. Focus on outcomes and keep your explanations simple. Dropping the ego and not being judgemental are crucial for understanding clients’ choices and supporting them without bias. Practical, hands-on experience is just as vital as academic knowledge. Both are needed for effective training and business growth. Observe and learn from successful communicators and social media accounts. Feelings of inadequacy often stem from gaps in business skills as well as in your dog training knowledge. When you broaden your expertise in both areas you suffer less from imposter syndrome. This makes you more confident and easier to connect with your clients and adapt to their needs. BEST MOMENTS “Remember who you are talking to.” “I remember going to clients, and was like, oh, yeah, “so the dog's olfactory system”, and they were going “what?!” “Gauge how much that person wants to know.” “It's still going to be difficult to fully understand how that person is going to interpret the knowledge that you're sharing, because everything's a bit subjective.” “Again, it comes back to that judgment of other people and other trainers." EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.youtube.com/@yorkshire_canine_academy SOCIALS AND IMPORTANT LINKS https://www.tiktok.com/@letstalkdogbusiness https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTalkDogBusiness Website www.caninebusinessacademy.com Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/caninebusinessacademycommunity/ Let´s Talk Dog Business Strategy Book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lets-Talk-Dog-Business-Strategy/dp/1068791705 Email [e-mail] ABOUT THE HOSTS We’re Jo Moorcroft and Vicky Davies. Force-free dog trainers, business strategists and co-founders of Canine Business Academy. Collectively, we’ve been dog training for nearly three decades, built a six-figure dog training business, and grown CBA into a multi–six-figure global brand, all while raising kids, a university degree and life life'ing. Featured on BBC, FOX and NBC, and authors of Let’s Talk Dog Business Strategy. Giving a shit is the strategy. Getting shit done is the method. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/