How to: Land a PT Job Before You Even Graduate!

You’re studying for your Cert IV in Fitness because you want to become a Personal Trainer and transform lives through the power of physical activity. What if you could walk straight from your graduation ceremony into your new career? AIF’s F.I.R.E. Event can make this a reality.

What is F.I.R.E.?

F.I.R.E. stands for Fitness Industry Recruitment Expo, an AIF event that presents an unrivalled opportunity to network with key players in the fitness industry. F.I.R.E. events are run several times each year at our campuses.

We work hard to bring together a range of our high calibre Career Partners (gyms, fitness studios, massage clinics – anywhere you might want to score a job!) for you to network with and establish some valuable industry connections. The event runs like an expo, with Career Partner stalls lined up around the room, allowing you to take centre stage and make your way around to each one.

Why attend F.I.R.E.?

The main purposes of attending F.I.R.E. are to learn about all the career opportunities within your region, have your fitness industry questions answered by professionals, make connections with potential future employers, and set yourself up with a gym or studio for your trainer experience placement.

What do I talk to the Career Partners about?

Anything you like! Try to make a lasting impression by showing a bit of your personality; in the fitness industry having great people skills is crucial, so being your authentic self (with maybe a sprinkle of extra energy and enthusiasm) will get you far! If you’re not an ‘off the cuff’ kind of person, try preparing some questions ahead of time, so you go into the event with a plan. Questions may include topics ranging from the nature of the club’s business model, facilities, rent and hours, to peak times, membership size and demographics, and class timetables. This is the perfect time to get anything you’ve been wondering answered.

Here are some questions to get you started:

● What does a typical day as a PT look like in your facility?

● What support do I get in the start-up process with your gym practice?

● What is the weekly rent?

● What kind of employment structure do you have and what does this mean?

● What are the busy hours where most PTs work?

● What opportunities are there for growth?

● What opportunities are there for professional development?

● Do I get paid holidays?

● What support do I get to build my business with you?

● Can I do Trainer Experience/External hours with your facility?

● How many PTs do you currently have?

● What is the average pay rate for trainers at your facility?

● What locations do you have?

● Can I train clients outside of your business?

● Do I need to find my own clients?

Our top tips to help you make a lasting impression

1. Be prepared

As mentioned above, have a think about what you’d like to know from a potential future employer and write down some questions. Try to memorise them though, because reading off a sheet of paper or from your notes app is never a good look!

2. Dress to impress

Wear your AIF uniform, with clean trainers and tidy hair, or, if you’re feeling fancy pop on some corporate wear. Looking the part is super important when meeting potential future employers.

3. Be YOURSELF!

This may sound silly to some, but try not to get caught up in your head trying to impress and be someone you’re not – just smile, be confident and you’ll naturally connect with the Career Partners who are similar to you, or have businesses that align with your values.

4. Have a point of difference

Think of something creative that will make you stand out. At one event, a student brought along her CV with protein bars attached! Safe to say the Career Partners loved the addition of a tasty snack.

Now, it’s time to impress! If you’re keen to find out when the next F.I.R.E. event in your region is, reach out to [email protected]. See you there!

• Bio

AIF

The Australian Institute of Fitness

The Australian Institute of Fitness (AIF) is the largest and longest established fitness training organisation in Australia, with dynamic training methods and expert course coaches nationwide - spanning fitness, massage and nutrition. The AIF qualifies more fitness professionals than any other provider in Australia, as well as offering a broad range of continuing education courses (CEC), upskilling resources and partnership programs for existing industry.