Hey there, gym owners! How’s the hustle and bustle of the fitness world treating you?…Don’t answer that, I already know what’s buggin ya.
May of you have recently told me about a pesky little issue lately – the dreaded no-shows. It seems like the number of disappearing acts has skyrocketed, and I can practically hear your frustration from here. I mean, seriously, all that effort to bring awareness to your gym, get people to set up appointments, and then poof! They vanish into thin air. It’s enough to make you want to bench press a row of treadmills.
But fear not, my fellow fitness enthusiasts-turned-business-owners! Today, I’m here to help you shift your focus from being reactive to being responsive. It’s time to take control of what you can control and turn those no-shows into eager attendees. After all, if we can improve our no-show rate, our conversion rates will also soar!
With that in mind, here are five tips and tricks that will have your no-shows begging to work up a sweat with you:
1.) Make it personal: Once your potential clients respond to your email sequence, don’t leave them hanging in the virtual abyss. Connect with them personally to schedule that all-important appointment. It’s all about building rapport and emphasizing that you’re dedicating your precious time just for them. Trust me, auto-scheduled appointments with cold, robotic links generally don’t cut it.
2.) Ninja moves: Depending on what resonates with you and your gym-goers, try a couple of “high commitment” moves. You could ask for a credit card at the time of booking the appointment, securing their trial program, like Netflix! Alternatively, let them know there’s a special surprise waiting for them if they actually make it to their session. Who doesn’t love a good surprise, right?
3.) Break the automation: Pick up the phone and give your clients a quick call. Be the human touch that stands out in a sea of automated messages. Remember to smile and bring some energy to the conversation. People can feel those good vibes, even over the phone.
4.) Lights, camera, connection: If you’re not a fan of phone calls or simply don’t have the resources, fear not. You can still send a video text to your no-show-prone clients. Record a short video greeting, welcoming them and setting expectations for their session. Show them the door, point out the parking spot, and let them know you’ll be right there to greet them. By reducing their overwhelm, you’ll increase the chances of them actually showing up.
5.) Time is of the essence: Don’t leave too much time between the initial call and the appointment itself. Motivation can fizzle out faster than a firework on a rainy day. Keep the momentum going by scheduling their session as soon as possible.
6.) When all else fails: Let’s face it, even with all these tricks up your sleeve, some people will still manage to vanish like Harry Houdini. But don’t fret! Send them a video text that oozes compassion, not anger. Let them know you genuinely care about them and hope everything is alright on their end. And don’t forget to offer them the option to reschedule.
So, my dear gym owners, put these tips into action, and watch as your no-shows become a thing of the past. Remember, a little personal touch, some ninja moves, and a whole lot of compassion can work wonders in this fitness game. Stay strong, stay motivated, and keep those gym doors swinging wide open. Your future sweaty success awaits!