Every month, Club Solutions Magazine shines a spotlight on the fitness industry’s Front-Line All Stars — those employees who embody their gym’s core values and mission, excel in their roles and bring joy to the membership.
Many of these employees have decades of experience and a wealth of knowledge at their disposal. Here, we share some of the best learning lessons and tidbits of advice from a handful of Front-Line All Stars recently featured.
Bridget Monteiro, Genesis Fitness for Women
What is essential to being a great group fitness manager? According to Bridget Monteiro, weekly communication with your instructors is key.
“Everyone must be on the same page,” said Monteiro. “Whether it’s to say, ‘Hello, how is everyone?’ or keeping them abreast of club info, it’s imperative. Short or long in length it doesn’t matter, but communication must be consistent.”
Will Duncan, Greenwood Athletic and Tennis Club
When asked for a best practice tip other Front-Line All Stars could learn from, Will Duncan of Greenwood Athletic and Tennis Club explained the Golden Rule is essential. “Treat everyone like you want them to treat you; with the utmost respect and you will have no problems,” he said.
Brenda Wilson Bickham, Stone Creek Club & Spa
According to Brenda Wilson Bickham, positivity is a key to success in her role as kitchen chef at Stone Creek Club & Spa. How does she keep a positive attitude?
“Think positive every day,” explained Bickham. “No matter what I go through, I don’t let it affect my job. I just stay away from the negative stuff. Also, every day when I come in, I pray and ask the Lord to bless my food and help me put love into it. When you do that, it shows in the food, and the members feel it and taste it.”
Joy Darreff, Cornerstone Clubs
For Joy Darreff, the CornerKids director at Cornerstone Clubs, the key to success in any profession is simple: “Work harder and happier than everyone you work with and never complain.”
Deb Shook, Wisconsin Athletic Club
What makes an employee a Front-Line All Star? Being able to connect with members is a must. Deb Shook of Wisconsin Athletic Club shared how she makes a strong connection with members. “Eye contact, a smile, a name and I listen,” she explained. “I sincerely believe taking the time to learn [members’] names shows how much you care.”
Know a Front-Line All Star at your gym? Nominate them to be featured here.
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Rachel Zabonick-Chonko is the editor-in-chief of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@peakemedia.com.
