I was contacted by two new clubs within 24hrs – keen for ATA to start conducting our programs a few times a week at these new clubs. Normally this is great news, but there is only so much we can do. With a waiting list of clients for Private Lessons, and our coaches (who I rate very very highly – Ains and Sam and our assistants) are faily well fully booked out.
We do advertise for coaches, but I don’t want to just employ anyone, I have high standards and if a potential applicant isn’t up to that, I honestly don’t want them working with me. I owe it to our clients, our clubs and the public.
So I sent our a message via social media and was overwhelmed at the positivity of the posts. I am still just under 40 and have been involved in business almost 14 years, I will never know everything, and will never pretend to, every day is learning curve and I believe listening to be one of my greatest skills – and to respect the opinions of those that have credibility in all walks of life!
Heres how the discussion went
Friends I need your help – your opinion or comments.
We now have a fairly large wait list for Private Lessons, and for after school tennis at ATA. This season is looking massive and I have been contacted by 2 new clubs over the weekend to take on their coaching needs.
We have interviewed coaches over the last 6 weeks but I am wondering – Am I too fussy when it comes to employing coaches.
I really want someone passionate about tennis and the industry and not someone who just wants to make a buck (which seems to be the impression that I get).
I have a heap of pride and respect for the industry, my business and our clients. I can’t just let someone come on in, get the ideal hours and cash they want but not have the passion that myself or our other coaches have.
I am so lucky to have and have had a group of coaches (you know who you are) who work so hard and give and give and give to the Industry our business and the community and are so well respected – we are all busy and our clientele is growing.
What should I do – I am really seeking some serious advice here whether its this industry related or other.
On one hand I don’t want to be turning clients away, I want everyone to be able to experience and enjoy what we have to offer in terms of tennis programs etc. On the other hand – I have had some excellent coaches in the past (and currently) and the latest group of applicants simply aren’t up to it, or wouldn’t be a good fit.
PS We are working 7 days a week in summer and have lights… and I don’t want to Franchise out!
(sorry for the tags, some of you I’d really value your opinions)
Help