Marketing. What strategy works for your business?

Talk is cheap! No, really, it doesn't cost anything. Get some word of mouth started about your business. Contact simply everyone you have ever worked with and ask them to spread the word. I loved the "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" series but I learn about business very well when it concerns business tactics. Remember, people want what you have to offer when they find a need for it. Create that need. Testimonials let them see what others were able to accomplish but a mission statement lets them know what THEY are going to accomplish. Read about "Call to action" and devise a marketing plan around it. Networking is important, if you have a list that could be written, the write it. If it is a professional network, try finding these people on LinkedIn.com

Hello Rachel,
Congratulations on your new venture! I emailed all my clients past (even 2+years) and present when I have made a facility change and offered them a Free PT Session and a 7 Day Pass if they stop by. I would look into the possibility of radio and an ad in your local paper or business magazine. A Facebook update would also be an idea as well.

Good Luck On Your Venture!
Michael

Word of mouth
Facebook Events
Offering my bootcampers a refferal discount
Wearing my T Shirt everywhere!
Getting involved with Community events
Getting involved with your Chamber of Commerce
Teaching at the YMCA or your Community Center
Make sure your certifications are up to date.

I got started by training a few friends at a steep discount. I let them know that I was trying to get things started and asked if they would like a few training sessions at a discount. If they liked the sessions, would they pass the word? I got a few additional clients after that and then word of mouth referrals took off.

I do think you need a plan. You need to know who your clients are, where you can find them, what their needs are and how what you have to offer will help them meet those needs.

Your local chamber of commerce may have some additional resources that can help you get started. Even their on-line small business association national website has some great tips and an outline to help you get started.

Good luck! Go after your dreams!

Hi Rachal. I think that you've already hit the nail right on the head! Sitting down with a pen and paper and writing your thoughts and ideas on paper - brainstorming - is a great way to start! As the saying goes "failing to plan is planning to fail." Use your brainstorming time as a 'brain dump,' and literally put any of your ideas on how to promote yourself and your potential contacts down on paper, no matter how remote or crazy it may seem. Then, I'd say step away for a bit and let your mind relax. Come back and revisit your ideas and see where they lead you - I think that this is a great way to get started!

Good luck!

LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
larue.cook@lecfitness.com

All above + your body is a business card + your clients bodies are walking billboards.

Hi Rachel,
I see your question was asked over 100 days ago - how are things going? I built my client base from 5 to over 50 within 5 months using a "Healthy Gift" handout that is private labeled for my business. I hand out the gifts to my clients that refer their family & friends. I give the gift for new clients and renewals of current clients, Birthday, holiday, when a client hits a goal, etc. You should see my facebook page light up with great comments of thanks and appreciation when I give out the gift. The gift package is healthy so it fits perfectly with our business. Like I said my clients went from 5 working at Anytime fitness, to now well over 50 including group classes and bootcamps all using this simple gift. Here is the contact info for the guy who does my gift box - he does it special for me, but I'm sure if you drop my name he could do it for you also at a very reasonable price. Call 1-800-223-3083 and ask for Jerard - tell him Brian Gajeski gave you his number.
Good luck, I hope you are doing well.
Brian