Network Magazine summer 2014 | Page 11

Solutions for your Fitness Business WorkO WorkOutConnect Affordable, easy to use business management software for PT’s, Studios & Clubs of any size Contact us for a FREE TRIAL or DEMO today WorkOutConnect Access over... • 750+ workouts • 5,600+ images & videos The difference between empathy and sympathy may feel subtle, but in reality, they’re a world away from each other. • not making assumptions about what’s going on for Brett (your sister has a baby so you know it all) • listening (and we mean really listening) to what Brett’s saying • walking a mile in his shoes. When learning how to empathise with clients it’s crucial to be aware that empathy isn’t the same as sympathy. Sympathy is: • feeling sorry for him • thumping him on the back and moving on • about how you’re feeling, and not about how Brett is feeling. The difference between empathy and sympathy may feel subtle, but in reality, they’re a world away from each other. Here’s how you do empathy: • slow down your interactions with Brett • make eye contact and listen carefully • ask questions about what it’s like for him • picture the chaos he’s faced with at the end of the day, and the demands of his work • think about what that would feel like if it was you • let him know you’ve heard (really heard) and you understand • and sure, thump him on the back if you must, but not until you’re confident that he knows that you ‘get’ his situation. The environment of empathy that you create for Brett is an important part of what will keep him coming back when the s*&t hits the fan at work and at home. Empathy will make him feel cared about and valued. He’ll know he’s not just another dollar to you, because empathy has allowed you to forge a strong connection. In the next issue, we’ll focus on honing your listening skills so you can gain the maximum information about your client and tailor your interactions and program to his needs. Kate Swann and Kristina Mamrot are Melbournebased psychologists specialising in treating overweight and obese clients. For information on their books The Ultimate Guide To Training Overweight And Obese Clients, and Do You Really Want To Lose Weight?, visit YourWeightLossExperts.com NETWORK SUMMER 2014 | 11 WorkOutConnect ... anytime, anywhere First Month FREE GymBrand.com.au Mobile Apps for your Fitness Business Promote your club and engage your members with your very own App. Custom designed and self-editable content. Also available WorkOu • Membership Key Tags • 24/7 Access Control • Direct Debit Billing • Pos Hardware • Retention Management Call: 1300 802 377 [email protected] www.pulsetecsolutions.com