I have spoken before on the importance of setting expectations. Right from the start, trainers should know what is expected of them, how it is to be delivered, and when it is to be delivered. As a manager, the second most important thing after setting these expectations, is following up and making sure the duties are done.
The follow up should be done a week or two after the expectation has been set (depending on the assigned tasks), and should constantly be reviewed with the trainers. Whether it is monthly production numbers, workouts for you to review, assessment of new members, or wearing the correct uniform — the manager should follow up on all items that are expected of each trainer. The yearly evaluation is too long a tool to use for this, so make sure you do quick, but frequent, check-ins on these items.
This allows you to keep track of how your personal trainers are progressing, and quickly address any issues you may have noticed during the follow-up process. Inspect what you expect! Without guidance, personal trainers may struggle to meet the requirements you have set for them.
Vic Spatola is the Director of Personal Training for Greenwood Athletic and Tennis Club in Greenwood Village, Colorado, a suburb of Denver. Contact him at vics@greenwoodatc.com.
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Rachel Zabonick-Chonko is the editor-in-chief of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@peakemedia.com.
