Tag Archives: Business Side

How to get clients knocking down your door

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The question I get asked all the time is, “Dave, how do I get more personal training clients?” The answer is simple but few do it. Over the next several posts I am going to give you seven steps to implement to get clients knocking down your door. Today, I am going to show you one of the single best ways to attract cients.

Step 1 – Become a published author

Yes, you heard me correct. If you want to be known in this industry and get people flocking to you then you need to position yourself as an expert.

Now more than ever it is easier for the average person like you and me to have a voice and establish ourselves as an expert. No longer do you need a publishing house or major editor to accept your manuscript and publish your work. Technology has changed all of that. For instance, I wrote “Anatomy of Sales” and self-published it. This has allowed me to position myself as an exert when it comes to the business side of the fitness industry.

“But Dave, there are hundred of articles and books out there on fitness” is what you are saying right now. You are correct, but that should not stop you for coming up with a topic and writing about it. You are not trying to be a best selling author. What you are doing is creating a perception to the public that you are the expert in a particular filed or subject. Just the mere fact of having an article published in a major newspaper or magazine gives you more credibility, which takes away one of the barriers clients have when finding a personal trainer.

So, how do you get started writing a book? Well, that is another post but if you are interested in learning more and want my help then I can coach you through it. if you want to do it yourself then go to Amazon’s website Create Space and they have step by step tutorials on how to get published and use their network to sell your book.

If you seriously want to have clients knocking down your door then become an expert and start writing for newspapers, industry trade journals, and even your own book.

P.S. The second step to getting more personal training clients, is one that the fear of doing ranks as high as the fear of dying! You won’t want to miss this one!

Coach Dave

The Future is You!

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Last week I had the opportunity to attend the 2010 IHRSA convention in San Diego. Let me tell you San Diego is a little piece of paradise, and now I know why everyone wants to live in Southern California. Well, maybe not everyone! Anyway, that being said, I am not really here tonight to talk about how much I loved San Diego but to talk to you about the theme of the convention, “The Future is You.” As of this writing we are waiting to see if the government is going to step in and change the health care system as we no it. Most of you know where I stand on that issue but I want to get back to the light bulb that went off in my head when I thought about the theme of the IHRSA convention. Regardless of where you stand on the health care debate, my view is, if change is going to happen it is going to come from you. Yes, you the fitness professional! So, if you want to be part of the revolution and change here is what you need to do.

1.) Invest in yourself – I know with the internet it is easier to get information and knowledge but I recommend that you should go to a convention at least once a year and learn from the experts. Another reason I think going to a convention is a great investment is you tend to come away recharged and regenerated. Being around motivated and optimistic fitness professionals helps you get back your motivation and reminds you of why you chose this career.

2.) Quit going after everyone – Pick a niche and become an expert in that area. Too many times I see personal trainers trying to be everything to everyone. If athletics gets your blood boiling become a strength coach. If weight loss is your thing become an expert on nutrition and psychology. I made the early mistake as a young personal trainer and wanted to be a personal trainer for everyone. It was through a natural course of time and soul searching that I have finally settled into being on the business side of fitness.

3.) Be passionate – If you do not have a burning desire to help people then this profession is not for you. Also, if you do not have passion your actions will show and you will continuously struggle to retain clients. Search long and hard and understand that this profession is challenging and will take a lot of energy to succeed, so if you lack passion get out now.

As I left San Diego I realized one thing and if this country is going to see real health reform is is up to me and you!