I was on the elliptical a few weeks back at the gym watching a couple workout. Usually, I’m “in the zone” really not paying attention to what’s going on around me. Today, however I grew intrigued by this cute couple working out together. I think they were new to the gym as I had never seen them before. They acted a little intimidated by the equipment and very shy, not making eye contact with any of the members working out around them. It’s great to see someone new to the gym, getting their feet wet and making the commitment to personal health. I can’t believe it’s been three years since my first day at the gym. I was all out of shape and had absolutely no idea what to do. I hooked up with a personal trainer (Ian Kelly – www.organicbodybuilding.com) and he set me on the right path. Unfortunately, most who spend the money and join the gym don’t pay the extra to work with a personal trainer and only last about a couple of weeks. It really can be intimidating and since that day a few weeks ago, I haven’t seen that cute couple working out again…
So you’re asking, “What does this have to do with promoting my business?”
Well, think of it this way… Promoting your Business is like Lifting Weights. First, you have to commit to a solid routine, most likely because you’ve looked in the mirror and do not like what you see. “Perception” (At this point, I’d recommend hiring a personal trainer as I did). It’s best to work with someone who can design a proper workout routine and make sure you are doing it right. Secondly, you need to be “Persistent” and remain motivated. Persistence and motivation and your friends and will come in handy on the days you feel physically beat up and emotionally tired, not wanting to spend the time at the gym. Finally, you need to be “Patient.” Patience is truly a virtue. The first month, if you’re working with a qualified personal trainer, you are going to feel destroyed every day; especially if you push yourself. Most quit in the first month.
I mean, “why put yourself through that much pain when you’re not receiving an immediate pay out?”
You have to stick with it and keep motivated. The payout will come in time. So you’ve given it three months and you begin to feel the difference; more energy, more motivation, more determination. You’re starting to learn more, change habits and make changes. Six months have come and gone and your friends, co-workers and neighbors begin to see the physical changes and compliment your hard work. You begin to notice the change and feel the difference. Finally, twelve months of hard work are in the rear view mirror and you are beginning to plan your first triathlon and new members are coming to you for advice. This is the point most want, but never get to. It’s a great place to be.
So, when marketing your business keep this in mind. Perception, Persistence, Patience. When looking at your business, what do you see? What do your customers see? How are you perceived? When you’re ready to commit, don’t do it alone. Do your research and hire a professional. Remain persistent with your message, stay on top of it and don’t give up. Remember, this is where most quit because it “didn’t work, it’s waste of money, blah, blah, blah…” Lastly, patience is truly a virtue as it takes time for a message to gain traction. The payout is there, just give it time.
Hopefully, the couple I saw working out a few months back will give it another try and stick with the three P’s. Perception, Persistence and Patience. If they do, by this time next year, they’ll be in the best shape of their lives.
