One month in...

So I'm one month in to starting my new marital arts school in the big city. Here are some things that I've been doing that seem to be working so far.

1)Walking A LOT. I live in a place now where thankfully I can walk everywhere. You get to see a lot this way, things you might miss speeding by in a car. I have found a lot of spaces to teach and start programs this way.

2)Talk to A LOT of people about starting programs. Be prepared for a lot of people to say no. Its a numbers game. If 8 out of 10 people say no, you just have to ask more people. Talk to schools, other martial arts schools, gyms, parks, etc. Depending on your schedule, you can offer free intro classes during the day at public or private schools.

3)Offer to volunteer. I am now in pretty well with the city parks and rec department because I offered to come in for free for some intro programs. After only a couple weeks, we have moved to how I can be a consultant to make money from these new programs with the city. They also want to expand to other sites.

4)Give a lot and participate in related activities when possible. To create something from nothing takes a lot of energy. You have to really put yourself out there.

5)Try to recognize and go with your gut when you know a program won't work at a particular location. Sometimes it just takes talking to the right person. Getting passed the "Gate Keeper". This is usually the case with most places. Some gym manager is really busy and could care less about your martial art. Be polite, don't waste your time or theirs. If its a spot you really want, keep trying in a polite way to reach the person who will say yes. If someone doesn't actually say no, keep sending nice emails now and again to remind them you are there. Eventually they might call on you if they need to fill a time slot.

6)Be strategic with where you teach. Sometimes you take what you can get in the beginning. But don't spend your energy in a part of town you don't want to be. Think about the future when you eventually open your own space if that is your goal. Will your students drive to your new location? Most people wont drive more than 5 miles for a martial arts school.

As always, feel free to leave feedback. If you have any questions just shoot me an email!

More posts to come.