Building relationships with other businesses
I am working on adding additional clients to my business. I am going to approach some fitness equipment stores to see if we can get an agreement. My proposal to the fitness stores would be this: They sell a piece of cardio equipment, free weights, home gyms, etc. They notify their customer that with their purchase they get a free consulting and workout with a personal trainer (me). I see this as beneficial to both parties as they can give their customers something different than other stores are currently doing and I get potential leads. Is there something I might be missing in this effort? And is there a certain way you would approach the stores on this?
Thanks,
I’ve never done this with a fitness equipment store, but I see the value in the idea.
My referral relationships have occurred naturally, without me visiting the business to specifically ask for a trade. For example, I see a physical therapist for an injury rehab, and we have cross-referred clients. My nail technician and I do a lot of cross referring – clients see my pretty nails and I send them to her, and she sends me the people who want a personal trainer. The key to both of those working well is that we knew each others’ businesses first, and each others’ personalities, so we feel comfortable with the cross-refer to our client bases.
Do you know the business well?
Best of luck!
Hi Trent,
I have an agreement with a local (independently owned) fitness equipment store, but a little different. If I refer a client to them–and they purchase a piece of equipment–then I get paid a small percentage of the purchase. (I have an in-home business, so I refer clients for in-home gym needs). It is a great referral system as well.
I have not done your suggestion, but it certainly would be worth a try. It is great to have connections like this as it fosters local small businesses and their growth. Everyone benefits.
Good luck,
Christine
Hello Trent Barga,
Become a regular customer before requesting something from them. I like to patronize several businesses to share the wealth. Offering a few choices to a client is always better than one.
Attending business group meetings lets the real you show through so they will be comfortable buying from you.
I was told to leave my business cards at a gym supply store when I purchased equipment from them. Of course, I have their business cards passed out, as well.
I believe you have a good idea, to make sure the client uses the purchase properly.
Take care,
Natalie aka NAPS 2 B Fit.
Hi Trent,
this sounds like a great idea to me. After all, it won’t cost the business anything. I would make sure that I present to the businesses a sort of portfolio of yourself with certification and proof of liability insurance.
Karin Singleton
www.meltnc.com