I had an Interview at a Local Personal Training Studio today - Personal Trainer Community - Forum

[Mitchel]

I had an interview today at a Personal Training studio here in Tulsa that is getting ready to expand its services across the state. I was extremely nervous and excited, and when i went into the interview, the Director of training and I started talking about fitness related things and continuing education that I almost forgot it was an interview. Overall the interview went exceptionally well (I hope), and there was one question that the trainer almost stumped me on.

He asked "When you go into gyms or other studios for a look - you see the trainers there, and how would you compare yourself to them? What separates you and them from being an exceptional trainer?"

I immediately started talking to kill dead time and pretty much had no clue what separates me and other trainers. I eventually thought about application of biomech. and kino during workout sessions with friends, and i end up talking about applying kino and proper biomechs to effectively teach safe form and ect.

I guess with that said, i answered his question. Anyways, i think it went well, it ended me with him giving me his card and telling me about what they do on follow up interviews.

[Dinah]

Hi Mitchel,

It sounds to me that the interview went very well. I know that when I have just finished interviewing, I always hone in on a certain aspect of the conversation that I think tripped me up. You're just being super analytical, but that can be a good thing. From what you explained as your answer to his question, I think you did a good job of separating yourself from other trainers. Not to be stereotypical, but I don't think there are enough trainers out there who would even think to talk about biomechanics and kinesiology as a competitive differentiator. The fact that you made safety and form paramount in your training approach? A+!

If anything, it gave you the "heads up" that this could be a question in a future interview, so you'll have your answer polished and ready for the next time. After all, the interview is about selling yourself and knowing what separates you from the pack is always good to have in your back pocket.

Good luck and let us know how it goes!

Dinah

[portlandGymRat]

Yeah interviews suck! I always beat myself up for a few days thinking why I didn't say this or that rather than what I DID say...

But sounds like things went well. Unfortunately in my experience the card doesn't necessarily mean a for sure thing. I have been given a few cards and have never heard back from any of them. Best advice I can give...SEND A THANK YOU Letter(email)!! All the info you need should be on that card. Its very professional.