One of the best and worst parts about teaching Pilates is working with clients. Nothing is more rewarding or challenging than helping clients solve their movement challenges.

Who doesn’t like working with clients that are gracious, respectful and even excited to work with you?

Then you have those clients that just don’t seem to gel with you. You do everything to appease them, but it never seems enough. You start dreading that client walking through your door.

Yep, I’ve been there a few times, not often but enough to make me curious and try and find a way to change how their behaviour affects me.

I am grateful for two things I have learned along the way.

1. I learned to nurture, and market to the clients makes me excited to teach every day. It’s a well-known idea that 20 percent of your customer base creates 80 percent of your business. I learned to target my messaging to the 20 percent I wanted to focus my energy on.
2. Next I learned to set boundaries and offer realistic expectations. At times I still have clients that want to run a marathon when all they can reasonably expect is to do is to walk without falling. I have found ways for them to celebrate what they can do without crushing their dreams. They usually come to a more realistic view themselves over time.

You always have a few clients who seem to make it their life’s goal to make you feel like you and your business are inadequate. Then it is time for you to ask yourself, ‘is this a customer even worth having?’ Usually, the answer is no.

It’s a hard choice to make, and even harder to break the news gently to them. I usually refer them to someone I think suits their personality type and needs.

I know this is uncomfortable to do, but when you consider the long-term effect on you and your business as a whole, then it is necessary. Be brave and cut out that negative relationship to focus on building better ones with clients who want to work with you. You are then better able to work with your clients toward a common and positive goal.

SUMMARY

• You learn your values and who you want to work with when encountering difficult clients.
•  It helps you focus your energy and time on those that want your help
•  Teaches you to set boundaries that protect you and your business
•  Build a referral network so you can gently pass them on to someone more able to deal with them

STILL NOT SURE?

Let me help you. Contact me at tania@heartsandbones.co.nz

FREE GIFT

Check out my FREE course below.

FREE starter online workshop. Sample what we teach.

https://heartsandbones.thinkific.com/courses/teach-pilates-with-confidence-starter-kit

PS: I am always happy to have a chat.

Reach out any time.