Industry Buzz: Don’t Let These Three Things Fall to the Wayside

If you’re like most gyms in America, this time of year is your busiest. You’re likely implementing new programs, hiring new staff and catering to a host of new members getting acquainted with your facility.

With all of this chaos, it can be easy to let the little things slip through the cracks. As a result, here’s a quick checklist of “the little things” to keep an eye on, that if kept unchecked could have a negative impact on your business.

Staff Meetings

When things get hectic, one of the first things to fall to the wayside are staff meetings. After all, when equipment needs to be cleaned, contracts need to be signed and fitness accessories need to be purchased, who has the time?

However, this poses a problem. Without a weekly staff meeting to make sure everyone’s on the same page, important items can be missed. For example, staff meetings would be the time to discuss new programs, upcoming special events, or issues that arose during the previous week. How else are you making sure things are getting taken care of?

Cleanliness

When it comes to cleaning, many clubs just clean at eye level. As a result, things very high and very low get missed. Think your members don’t look where they place their feet? They do. Think they don’t scan the ceiling while running on the treadmill? They do. When it comes to cleanliness, many members don’t miss a beat, so neither should you.

In addition, because member usage is so high this time of year, it’s essential your paper towels and sanitizers are stocked. It’s frustrating for members to have to go to station to station, trying to find items to clean off equipment. If they have to try too hard, they may avoid cleaning equipment all together.

Courtesy

Again, because things are so chaotic, sometimes common courtesy flies out the window. If a front desk employee is trying to do too many things at once, the essential “hellos,” “goodbyes” and “how are you doing todays” may not happen. As a result, make sure you have enough employees staffed so that one doesn’t become too overwhelmed.

Regardless of the chaos, this time of the year is also the most exciting. So enjoy it, have fun and continue to help your communities reach their health and wellness goals, one little thing at a time.

Rachel Zabonick is the Editor of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@clubsolutionsmagazine.com. Reach out to her about exciting events or programs your club has implemented, or to share the amazing accomplishments of a member.