Ever wonder what does it take to build a successful skating class program?
Of course you need to find students, but before you get students make sure you have a sound basic skills, intermediate and/or advanced skills programs to deliver to your students. Be sure to teach within your area of expertise and comfort and make good referrals for skaters who need something different. It's hard to pass up a lesson, but you'll get respect and good student referrals for your own discipline. In the long run, your best marketing tools for group classes and individual private lessons will always be the students who pass through your classes and actually learn how to skate or skate better. Whether they came to you to enter competitive skating sports, learn a few new tricks or just conquer a great fear of falling, the skaters you build who visually demonstrate the benefits of training are the best PR you will ever have.
A large number of my class members come by word of mouth from current and former skaters, and I spend time at roller rink public skates and school parties helping newbies (at no charge), adjusting helmets, lacing skates properly. This doesn't always result in lessons, but building a sense of community and goodwill is another way of promoting my services.
I am also fortunate enough to work at facilities that market their skating classes via local parks and recreation programs, private and public schools, digital marketing and in-rink flyers. Once the public finds the classes, it is up to you, the instructor, to provide a positive experience for as many skaters as possible to help continue to grow your skating program and the sport in general.
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