Pilates Studio Break Ups!
This blog is of special interest to
Pilates Trainees and Pilates Teacher Trainers
In nearly 30 years in the Pilates world - I’ve seen a few things. Some not so pretty.
When I took on teacher training in earnest I also determined to tackle a re-shape of the industry. At the end of each cycle the ultimate test for me - is “would I hire this person?”. Not just based on their Pilates skillset, but holding each individual to a much higher bar.
The business of Pilates can have a dark side - one where studio owners may invest their life’s savings and life’s work only to have instructors solicit clients for their own in violation of agreements and common decency. It’s an age old story and crosses industries for sure but as a person responsible for training instructors, I consider this a huge non-negotiable part of teacher training education.
Free markets, capitalism, heathy competition are all good reasons there ought to be more Pilates studios than less - don’t get me wrong. But this somewhat common occurrence of pilfering clients from studios doesn’t serve the Pilates big picture - and furthers a behavior that is in stark contrast to the health, wellness and balance we preach as Pilates teachers. There are fifty good ways to leave a job properly. Sadly, teachers often slam doors behind them or skulk away hiding their true intentions.
Now - because I make it a personal policy to never criticize anything without offering potential solutions or remedies - here’s how I think we could be better as an industry.
If you are a trainee getting ready to forge ahead into the professional world here are five good (actually great) reasons not to burn bridges with your training organization or in any job you should land in the years to come.
Can’t stay in one place? No problem. Tell the truth. Employers may not be happy to lose you but if you are worth your salt - they will send you clients. Especially if you are in another area. Why give up potential referrals that can help build your business?
Going into business for yourself? Maybe you’d like an investment. You may be surprised to know that many business owners would happily help you build your business too. Maybe as a partner or a silent investor or even a brand collaboration. Remember that your boss has done it before - they may have some wisdom to share and may actually think you are worth their investing.
Just need more cash? Guess what? Most bosses would love the chance to fight for you. I’m not guaranteeing that raise but it’s sure worth asking if you lay it on the line. Employers can be mighty creative if you tell them your bottom line. Maybe there’s an opportunity you didn’t even know about. A bigger role? Work from home? Anything is possible.
The future is unknown. Things could fall apart. You may need a job back at your old place. OR, a glowing letter of reference. What if you move far away? Don’t throw away the opportunity to have a solid reference in your back pocket. In can help you secure a lease on a new studio and so much more.
Wanna be a better person and make the world better too? Set an example. Even though people may be sad - it’s the right thing to do to leave on good terms. They say success is measured in how many tough conversations you are willing to have. This is definitely one of them.
If you happen to be in the business of teacher training here are a few questions you might find useful as you get nearer to graduation dates.
Will this person be honest if and when it’s time to move on?
Have they conducted themselves honorably within the program and in dealings with your team?
Do you believe this person will give back to the community?
I can’t always predict the future but we get it right most of the time. Our trainees are honorable. They conduct themselves by a code - they are consummate professionals and for what it’s worth I’ll always hire a great person knowing that I can help them become a great teacher.
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