How old are you?
Do you remember when almost all gas stations had attendants who filled the tank and washed your windows? Do you remember when you actually walked into a bank and spoke with a teller who handled your simple transactions? Remember when you needed a travel agent or airline rep to book a flight?
Most folks think this all changed for the sake of “convenience.” Well, that’s partly true, but the real reason was costs. During the 80’s and 90’s businesses discovered the advantages of “operational shift.” That is…. to shift many of their costly operations from their business on to the consumer.
For example, the gas station owner paid the attendant a wage, covered worker’s comp and a host of other expenses associated with employees.
At a certain point he began to wonder:
“What if I shift the filling of gas and washing of windows on to the consumer? How much money would I save?”
A lot! And, in many ways consumers also benefitted. They became much more aware of the cost of gas, travel and miles per gallon. Beyond gas stations, ATMs and online travel sites, companies like Home Depot are shifting to “consumer checkout.” It is the future of all retail operations -- especially grocery stores.
I think about this every time I see a trainer with a clipboard / workout card and filling it out on behalf of the client. Shift the Operation… to the consumer with a Journal. Ultimately, he/she will benefit by writing down their own workout.
I think about it every time a fitness professional tells me he or she spent 6 hours creating a month’s worth of menus for a client. Shift the Operation… Teach the client how to use the Nutrition and Menu Planning CD. Then, use your valuable time providing guidance and motivation.
I think about it when a fitness trainer is faced with an over fat person who still thinks “starvation diets” are only way to lose weight. How can the trainer possibly explain all the facts in a 6-session training package? Shift the Operation… Educate the client by providing the Reference Manual that can be read on the client’s time. Then, use your valuable time to answer questions and provide clarity.
How else might you Shift Your Operations to become more profitable while at the same time helping your clients?
Art Rothafel
privatelabelfitness.com
TollFree: 800-340-7011
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