I’m hearing a lot lately about “productivity”, “time management” and how people “fill or create their day” etc
Experience has taught me what works for someone may not work for me – or you.
We all have to find our way and become more effective (results-orientated) over time.
And one man’s (woman’s) joy is another’s burden! I’ve been “a time-management machine” and also “in the flow”. All phases have served a purpose
So whilst the following list refers to my background as a personal trainer, the same principles can apply to any service professional,
.. here it is … the 15 things I wish I had known from the outstart:
1. I didn’t have to be like (or measure up to) any other personal trainer.
2. There is no “arriving” – there is always more to learn (and unlearn). Enjoy the moment!
3. Just be straight with clients about what you know and what you don’t – their respect will be greater and there are lots of people who are happy to work with new trainers who are learning their craft (often your enthusiasm can be greater or you represent better value for their needs!)
4. How important it is to find your own “style” based on your strengths / passions
5. You don’t have to train everybody – just those you ‘fit’ with. Clients can break you as much as make you!
6. How to have confidence in letting someone go who isn’t willing to “keep up”
7. What I have to offer makes a difference in their lives AND is worth charging good money for.
8. Training people and seeing them transform their lives is richly rewarding, regardless of the amount I am charging them. Feel privileged!
9. The importance of assessments in order to have a clearer picture of the client and their needs [and to demonstrate your value]
10. You can charge different clients different amounts.
11. How to turn negatives into positives eg clients who “stand you up” for sessions. Make them appreciate what you do for them!
12. How it is not ‘embarrassing’ to ask for referrals.
13. The importance of “what” questions! Check for levels of understanding.
14. How important it is to grant yourself permission to play full-out. Be authentic!
15. How important the skill of building “networks” is. The future belongs to those with the biggest “networks”.
How about you? Got some wisdom or tips to share? Any points hit home with you too?
Please leave a comment below!
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Great post Noel. Some very valid points that can be used across the board, no matter what your profession!
Judith Kennedy. Personal Coaching to help you release the YOU inside.’s last blog post..Fat Burning Furness
Thanks Judith. Looks like we both share as much an interest in Coaching as PT nowadays. Multiple income streams and entrepreneurism are the new economy!
Thank you, Noel, for this wonderful set of tips, and I think that your remark about entrepreneurship being the new economy is right on the money, so to speak. I see a similar issue emerging with education, and an increase in individual accountability, and the onus on the individual to demonstrate value & knowledge.
Brian’s last blog post..Challenge Question #2
Thanks Brian! Am all for individual accountability, value & knowledge. Learning is not the pursuit of a certificate; today’s global economy demands it’s a lifelong passion.