Hey-
This question is for those folks who own gyms and studios out there. Also, anyone who “knows ah’ guy…” or owns any business. I need some tips and perhaps a few guidelines that have helped you out in the past. Just about any knowledge will help.
I have my facility already and want to know things in the scope of marketing, training do’s-don’ts, overhead wisdom and so on…
If you know anything, help me out.
Ok - I’ll bite.
How long have you been running this facility? Your post reads like you have opened up somewhere with little business knowledge. Enlighten me.
Some more info about the place and the area may well be useful.
What facilities do you offer? What’s the target audience (BB’s, sports specific, Cardio bunnies, mix, etc. ?)
Best piece of advice I ever heard about being self employed …
“When you stop smiling it’s time to get out”
Promoting yourself in the local community works wonders for many businesses. If you are trying to fill a gym with people then try getting in with some of the local big businesses and giving their employees a good deal.
If it’s the local hard core community then it’s the gym that needs the reputation - you need to entice them in there. Sure the price has got to be right but the whole attitude of the place is just as important.
What can you offer that nobody else does? Can you excel in one or two areas that will attract people?
Where do you want to go with this?
I would also recommend reading a copy of “The E-Myth Revisited” by Michael Gerber.
A must have for any small business owner.
I appreciate the feedback:
Renton- Thanks for the tips. It re-iterated a lot of what I already know (which is good). I would be careful of your assumptions. The post invites all ideas and suggestions…nothing more.
kelley- I will check on that book. I have to say my library for business can always use more resources, but my ability to really sit down and read anything long is not good.