Personal Trainer Interview Tips
Over the past 2 years I continue to be amazed at how Personal Trainers come prepared or more accurately, unprepared, when looking for a job. We even have trainers call up and before even asking if there are any open positions or ask to speak with the proper person, inquire as to “How much do we pay?” I don’t care if you were the best personal trainer in the area and you would be willing to work for peanuts, you wouldn’t be hired with that as your opening. So, for all of the trainers that are aspiring for a promotion or looking for a new facility, here are some tips that we look for when hiring:
- Bring a Resume – That’s right, a resume. So many times we have had to request this from a candidate. We have no idea who you are and before we spend the time with a face-to-face conversation, we need to have an accurate account of where you have worked and for long. Make sure you include up-to-date personal contact information as well as references. There are hundreds of websites dedicated to helping you prepare a good resume, do your homework.
- Attitude and Outlook – Want to be disqualified before uttering a single sentence? Bring the “I am the best PT in the world” attitude when you walk through the door. Education and experience are great but the right attitude is the first filter of whether we want you to come back for a second round. Most likely you will be talking with someone who has a significant business interest in the facility or are measured on results that you will directly impact. This means that they are the ones at risk by hiring you and nothing says less than someone who believes the world revolves around them.
- Dress – Look, just because you work in a gym doesn’t mean you need to dress like you have just finished a workout for your first interview. The industry accepts a casual dress code but that does not include shirts with no sleeves and running attire. Dress like you’re going out on your first date with your future spouse and you will be fine.
- Understand Your Future Employers Business Model – Here again, do your homework. Looking for a position with the local YMCA vs. an upscale PT facility means two different approaches. One may be more interested in your family skills, another your selling skills, another your attention detail, etc. They all will be interested in your training and people skills but to what degree could vary quite a bit.
- Ask Questions, Not Just About Money – This shows that you are truly interested in working for the facility, before an offer is presented. It also helps clear up any issues and to resolve them before investments are made on both parties. If the employer does not offer salary information in the first interview, there is a good chance that he or she has already made up their mind that there will not be a follow-up conversation.
In the end, your first impression will be the most important. Planning and preparation will take you a long way to getting that promotion you so richly deserve.
