Try to engage everyone
John and I had the opportunity to take a Saturday cycle class at the Scottsdale Life Time Fitness this past weekend. I always learn so much when I take another instructor's class and this was no exception. It was a super high energy class with a very interesting playlist- consisting of YouTube videos...David Bowie (one of John's favorites), Pat Benatar, Poison, Brittney Spears, Usher, you name it. What a great idea! I also picked up some great cueing verbage along the way.
But what really hit me came after class was over. We liked the class, and the instructor, so much that we wanted to talk with her when it was over and possibly interview her for ICI/PRO (we haven't been turned down yet!) She was busy talking with people after class and had others waiting, so we (along with two members) just hung out and waited....and waited....and waited...you get the picture. The two members left and then finally we did to when we saw she wasn't going to disengaged herself from the original people she was talking to.
The "take away" from this is that we need to be very aware of who is waiting to talk with us after class and manage our time so that we can acknowledge each of them. We never know what opportunities await!
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That’s a great point Amy. I’ve always invited people to stay after class if they have any questions or want to go over anything, usually only one or two people so that’s easy to handle. However, when there are several it can be a challenge. It can turn into a great opportunity to invite someone who want’s an in-depth chat to book in for a ‘consultation’ in the near future.
One of my previous Fitness Managers always instilled in us to acknowledge someone who is waiting with a ‘I’ll be with you in a moment’ is a great way to let them know you will be with them soon, and also as important it lets the person you are currently engaged with know you have to share your time 🙂
Scottsdale is a lovely part of the world, did you make it on a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West? It is such a remarkable and beautiful building.
B
Thanks Brian. I really like the, “I’ll be with you in a moment” suggestion. Like you said, it takes care of two things at once.
We didn’t get to FLW, but have been in the past. I love going to the Phoenix area. My whole family lives there.
I always love hearing from you!
Out of curiosity, how are instructors using video technology? I work at a big-box, bargain-basement chain and we have few to no resources other than a stereo. I’d love to bring my own equipment but video projectors are so expensive (and we have no screen).
Are there any obvious solutions that I’m overlooking?
Thanks!
Amy and Brian, I always keep a stash of business cards in my gym bag and when students need more than a quick answer or have a question, often recognized by eye contact if others are gathered around after class, I’ll pass out cards and they email that night. Works like a charm and everyone’s cup is filled.
Sheila, when we present special video rides at my studio, I employ a local Audio/visual guy to install 2 screens and dual projectors. While there is an expense, it’s top quality and the fees we charge (typically $10) offset the rental. You can find AV guys at churches and colleges who work on the side. It’s a dynamic way to build momentum in your classes.