Some more firsts

Another day containing a significant first today.

My significant first for today was having my first sit down at Front Runners with prospective athletes. Heading the meetings today I would be lying if I said I wasn't a little bit nervous. Deep down I knew I would be fine as I sit and talk to people all day, it is a large part of my day job. I know from experience that once I get talking I am fine. However, it was the build up leading into the sessions that had me on anxious.

In the end though I think the went okay.

As expected, once I was talking (and listening) I was fine. In fact once I was in the meetings I quite enjoyed myself.

I had two meetings today and whether or not those athletes sign up to the program I don't know. I got the impression that one of the athletes was likely to join the program, but the other was less certain. I am hoping they end up joining the squad in some capacity since I think we could be a real help, but you can't force people in these things.

The sit downs gave me an interesting insight into some aspects of my own personality I was perhaps not so aware of. I have done enough coaching lately that I am starting to get a feel for my style. However, what I realised today is that I am less certain of my style as a salesman. One aspect of this job that I perhaps hadn't thought through enough is that in order to get athletes you have to sell the program to them first and convince them to come along. That was something I hadn't really thought through and as a result I am not convinced I did it well. I think my second session was better, but in my first meeting I probably could have done a better sales job.

Still, it is also something I don't want to get to anxious about. I am actually in no rush to fill my coaching slots. I would prefer to be spend the time and find the right athletes, rather than talk, bully and convince the first eight athletes who come through the door to join the program. For me if I have met someone and run them through what we can offer and that convinces them, then that is great. If not then perhaps we aren't what they are after. I am happy to let them make that choice, rather than try and force their hand. That might mean I am not a great salesman, but in the end that is my personality and so I think I need to remain true to it.

In the end I am hoping it is not something that becomes an issue at all. I have confidence in the service that Front Runner provides and so I don't think we are going to have any trouble finding athletes willing to let us share their triathlon journey.

I sure am glad those first meetings are over though. Now that they are I can go into the next ones much more relaxed. Doing anything for the first time is always a nerve racking experience and this was no different. Now these first consult sessions are done I can't wait to get on the next ones.

Bring it on.