Answers (10)
1
Now that I have more detail I would say this:
It's great that you want to concentrate on your training and want to be efficient and do what you do best however just a few things to think about from my experience:
I don't train every person who contacts me, sometimes it's not a fit, so I personally like to do a 90 minute evaluation with every client.
Seeing 15 clients a day is intense. I don't know how old you are or how long you have been training but it would be difficult to stay at that pace and be able to really give each client 100% of your mental attention.
Working more doesn't always work, you may want to raise your fees instead and concentrate on a realistic work load. There are software programs for payment/reminders/birthday wishes/scheduling etc. People hire personal trainers because they connect with the trainer, it has nothing to do with your assistant.
However, you seem intent on having an assistant which is great. I would suggest sitting down and writing out expectations, sign some sort of contract, discuss pay and hours and then you personally have to figure out how much money you are willing to pay them. Do the math, if it's going to cost you a few training sessions is it worth it?
How much you pay your assistant would depend on their worth to you.
It's great that you want to concentrate on your training and want to be efficient and do what you do best however just a few things to think about from my experience:
I don't train every person who contacts me, sometimes it's not a fit, so I personally like to do a 90 minute evaluation with every client.
Seeing 15 clients a day is intense. I don't know how old you are or how long you have been training but it would be difficult to stay at that pace and be able to really give each client 100% of your mental attention.
Working more doesn't always work, you may want to raise your fees instead and concentrate on a realistic work load. There are software programs for payment/reminders/birthday wishes/scheduling etc. People hire personal trainers because they connect with the trainer, it has nothing to do with your assistant.
However, you seem intent on having an assistant which is great. I would suggest sitting down and writing out expectations, sign some sort of contract, discuss pay and hours and then you personally have to figure out how much money you are willing to pay them. Do the math, if it's going to cost you a few training sessions is it worth it?
How much you pay your assistant would depend on their worth to you.
1
Hello Sizwe,
By now you have read most of the answers here which are all fine and dandy. The question or concern that I take from you is that you want to grow and need help with the everyday so that you can focus on your product, expand your volume and improve your market. As a small busniess owner I have seen many business fail due to to things: lack of discipline and lack of organization.
Discipline requires the fortitude to keep going even when things seem overwhelming such as you seeking out a Personal Assistant. Their are many computer programs available on iPad as well as other communication devises that can help in this area without relying on someone else. They pay for themselves in time and the only draw back is losing the device or not programming the data in correctly or failing to add an event on your calendar. Discipline with finances is key to maintaining assets and a budget. Spending money on an assistant will eventually drain your funds and place you into having to create a larger clientele base to pay for expenses. Remember that unexpected cost always arise without notice that you should have a fund for such an event.
This is where Organization comes in. Having your daily, weekly and monthly events laid out with ample time to adjust and be flexible for the unexpected will be the avenue for success. Flexibility and the understanding that you have certain goals that need to be met each day for this to go smoothly is also essential. Not everything will balance out, and you don't want to stress the small stuff or you will be a slave to your endeavors instead of being free because of them. Set short term goals and confirm appointments, don't overbook your day or week. Start small and eventually most all 80% of your schedule will come into focus smoothly.
All is hard work but I take it you are up to the task. I feel if you follow these two basic principles, you will not need a PA at this time. Good Luck and Have Fun.
By now you have read most of the answers here which are all fine and dandy. The question or concern that I take from you is that you want to grow and need help with the everyday so that you can focus on your product, expand your volume and improve your market. As a small busniess owner I have seen many business fail due to to things: lack of discipline and lack of organization.
Discipline requires the fortitude to keep going even when things seem overwhelming such as you seeking out a Personal Assistant. Their are many computer programs available on iPad as well as other communication devises that can help in this area without relying on someone else. They pay for themselves in time and the only draw back is losing the device or not programming the data in correctly or failing to add an event on your calendar. Discipline with finances is key to maintaining assets and a budget. Spending money on an assistant will eventually drain your funds and place you into having to create a larger clientele base to pay for expenses. Remember that unexpected cost always arise without notice that you should have a fund for such an event.
This is where Organization comes in. Having your daily, weekly and monthly events laid out with ample time to adjust and be flexible for the unexpected will be the avenue for success. Flexibility and the understanding that you have certain goals that need to be met each day for this to go smoothly is also essential. Not everything will balance out, and you don't want to stress the small stuff or you will be a slave to your endeavors instead of being free because of them. Set short term goals and confirm appointments, don't overbook your day or week. Start small and eventually most all 80% of your schedule will come into focus smoothly.
All is hard work but I take it you are up to the task. I feel if you follow these two basic principles, you will not need a PA at this time. Good Luck and Have Fun.
0
Sizwe, unless you are incredibly busy, I can't see why you would need a personal assistant for and independent business.
However, if you are hiring a personal assistant then this individual would be responsible for organizing calender, booking appointments, receiving payments from your clients, handling cancellations, writing of correspondence and any other thing you would need assitance in as you run your day to day business.
Hope this helps.
However, if you are hiring a personal assistant then this individual would be responsible for organizing calender, booking appointments, receiving payments from your clients, handling cancellations, writing of correspondence and any other thing you would need assitance in as you run your day to day business.
Hope this helps.
0
No, I do not have one,and I do not need one either. My business volume is at just the right level for me.
0
Hi Sizwe. Aside from some of the obvious responses and answers that you've already received - which by the way I agree with - I think that since you are located in Johannesburg, the answers to your questions (especially regarding the issue of pay) is best asked of sources much more local to you. As I'm sure you are aware, employment issues such as duties, pay, benefits are much more locale specific than what most on this forum can effectively respond to.
Your question leaves a out some very important information such as, since you yourself are an independent contractor, is your assistant an actual employee or also an independent contractor? Are you offering this person 'other benefits' aside from salary? Many more questions as well.
Good luck.
LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
larue.cook@lecfitness.com
Your question leaves a out some very important information such as, since you yourself are an independent contractor, is your assistant an actual employee or also an independent contractor? Are you offering this person 'other benefits' aside from salary? Many more questions as well.
Good luck.
LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
larue.cook@lecfitness.com
0
Have you considered looking into gym management and membership systems and payment processing systems that can do this all for you?
0
I don't have one, but I know other small business owners who do and the opinions vary. Unless you are busy yourself or have trouble selling your services, I wouldn't use one because it's an extra expense that you can eliminate if it's not necessary. Another option would be for you to hire interns to help you with those tasks that you need the assistance with. Just contact your local colleges or universities for more information.
Best,
Harris
Best,
Harris
Add Answer
Related Questions
1 Person is Following this Question
Find a Personal Trainer
