When was the last time you worked at the front desk?

One consistent pillar of my consulting business for indoor cycling program design since I began 10 years ago…is my strong advice that at least 1 boutique studio founder complete our instructor training.

(If your studio offers other modalities, stay with me; cycling isn't what matters, I believe this applies to every format!)

Even if they don't intend to teach, I believe the inside-out-learning of how their team of talent delivers the product they sell…only makes them better boutique fitness studio founders.

Another consistent pillar…is my strong advice that the studio founder(s) schedule themselves for a front desk shift at absolute minimum, once per month, even if they have a wonderful studio management team.

This could look different depending on the founder & their persona; I do not believe there is a wrong answer, only the wrong solution for you. 

If you're someone who is operations-focused, it could be a great audit for you to watch check-in & flow of client-traffic, especially if you're eyeing another location & want to make a design adjustment. And perhaps your “front desk shift” IS assisting your team as well as chatting with clients.

If you're someone whose persona is more of a “social butterfly” and you'll be less inclined to fold towels & check-in clients into your system, I invite you to lean into “floating” during the shift & seeking conversation with clients you know & engaging clients you do not yet know. 

By having even one meaningful conversation, be it with praise or something….else, you are helping a client feel seen, heard & understood. 

And maybe, you'll find insight you need from a casual comment.

I have a feeling…even if you're a hands-off founder…you'll be designing more time to spend interfacing with staff & clients during back-to-back classes; the connections your “third place” fosters, matters now more than ever.

Have a great rest of your week!