How and WHY(?!) to Say NO to a Client and Stay Consistent.
As seasoned fitness coaches and business owners, our foremost objective is to maximize our monthly earnings, isn't it?
This often entices us to either take on an excessive number of clients or accept clients who may not align with our specific expertise. When embarking on our fitness ventures, it is natural to be uncertain about the number of clients we can effectively handle or the precise type of clientele we wish to train.
Perhaps we have yet to specialize or need time to explore our options. Such indecision is perfectly normal for fitness business owners. As entrepreneurs, our journey is an ongoing process of trial and education.
However, I can assure you that once you identify the specific type of client you desire and determine your optimal client capacity, you will be on a much firmer footing! Although being a "jack of all trades" may seem like an enticing prospect, it is more advantageous to narrow down your focus and concentrate on a particular group of clients.
While turning away potential clients and business opportunities may be challenging, it becomes more manageable as you familiarize yourself with your specialization and client load. Making space for clients who are more of a group-sessions clients in the personal-oriented club, or saying "YES" to a level 1 training performance client in a group of clients working out on a level 3 workout intensity and volume. This would soon be a bad solution, and there are plenty of situations in this regard.
Here's how to navigate this situation with finesse!
Just Say No: Recognizing the value of gracefully declining certain clients is crucial. This could be due to your client roster already being at capacity or because you lack expertise in their desired training area.
For instance, I have frequently been approached by both in-person and online prospects seeking bodybuilding show training. I have never engaged in such endeavors, nor would I attempt to train someone for this specific purpose, as it falls outside my realm of expertise within the fitness industry. But, many would say, sure it is easy – chest + biceps, back + triceps, legs + shoulders and the road to success is guaranteed!
Therefore, I simply explain: I’m sorry, but I can’t offer you training for this particular goal. It is not an area where I possess sufficient knowledge, and I believe that guiding you in such circumstances would be a disservice. OR, we can start this method based on general principles, BUT – it will soon lead us to a point where you will need level-up expertise guidance to achieve future goals. The best thing to do would be: but I can give you a piece of good advice on who to talk to maximize results in this type of training.
Rest assured, my transparency ensures that my clients find more suitable help, improving their long-term well-being and satisfaction. When you know what you know, it gets easy to overcome the fear-led attitude that if you do not know everything, you are worth nothing. If you ask a car mechanic to repair your bike or truck, the same will happen.
By referring clients to these professionals who do not align with your specialization, not only do you demonstrate professionalism, but they may also reciprocate by sending clients your way who may not meet their specific requirements.
Within my physical fitness club, I have cultivated connections with local physiotherapists, massage therapists, yoga instructors, and other fitness experts, each with unique specialties. Consequently, we frequently exchange referrals and support one another, ensuring no client is left unattended. I even managed to exchange clients with some CrossFit Clubs and Running Clubs.
This network-building approach is equally applicable online, allowing you to collaborate with like-minded fitness professionals with complementary skill sets. Expand Your Waitlist Experiencing an overflow of clients is indeed a desirable predicament! In such cases, I often advise fitness professionals to create a waitlist, enabling interested parties to sign up for future collaboration once they have the availability. Or, even better, go beyond your physical capacities and start a hybrid and online mentorship program! You will get a larger portion of clients and feel the importance of selling your expertise and guidance, not only physical presence, during your live sessions. This way, you could say NO, and YES, at the same time.
This enables you to capture leads without jeopardizing ongoing communication. Alternatively, you could introduce another program these clients can enroll in temporarily until you have openings in your personal training schedule.
Group classes or an online personalized program ensure that these clients remain connected to your business until you can provide one-on-one attention. With these strategies, you will be empowered to refine your focus and foster a thriving business teeming with clients directly aligned with your areas of expertise.
Finally, a “NO” to monetizing opportunity means that you are not in this game only or firstly for the money. You are there to serve and provide quality, which means respect and trust for your clients – and leads you to a position where you can eventually charge your services with higher prices.
Declining certain clients can benefit them and yourself while elevating the success of your enterprise!
MyFitWorld Team
3 Strategies to Effectively Manage a Large Client Base in Personal Training Without Compromising Quality Service
