What are your thoughts on hiring a PT who is in the process of getting their certification?
We are just starting a PT program at our gym, more than likely with independent contractors. I have two very strong looking resumes from candidates who have been certified within the last 5 years, but have let their cert lapse (they both work in the medical field). What are your thoughts on allowing them to train while they work towards getting re-certified. Is it common to allow people who are in the process of getting their cert to train during that time, or do I wait until after they have their re-certs? Any thoughts would be much appreciated!
Hi Kelly,
Here are my thoughts:
If they have let their certs expired, it shows no dedication and willingness to stay in this industry. The other problem/risk you will be facing, is the liability one. Do you feel comfortable letting someone who is not certified or has let his/her certification expired (still not certified at the moment) work at your business? I wouldn’t.
Maybe the best approach to this is to look for trainers who are currently certified and have some experience as well. This will make you and your business look better and be more respectful as well.
Best,
Harris
Hi Kelly,
I am with Harris here. My primary concern would be the liability issue. Since you plan to hire them as independent contractors, they would have to have their own professional liability insurance which they can only obtain after they have a certification.
Having somebody from the medical field always looks very attractive to the consumer, but it is no guarantee that they are good trainers. I have even seen physical therapists who did not do well as personal trainers because their training and focus is very different.
Since you do not have a personal training program at the moment and are only contemplating independent contractors, you have nothing to lose by approaching other trainers. In theory, you can have as many independent contractors as you like because they will be responsible to finding their own clients.
Karin Singleton
www.meltnc.com
Hi Kelly,
I agree that it is definitely a liability issue as an independent contractor if they do not have their certification. While they may have good or understandable reasons for letting their certification lapse, I would not hire them until they have been re-certified.
It will be more professional on your part (in the eyes of clients) and and more respected in the long run for you to wait.
Take care,
Christine
