In this age of marketing, no business is exempt from the need for a strong digital strategy. This includes the fitness industry.
If your Pilates business could use a boost in clientele and online engagement, it may be time to amp up your digital marketing game.
Here are three main ways you can tackle digital marketing in 2022.
#1 Reward Repeat Customers
Repeat customers are critical to the success of any business. That’s why it’s important to ensure sure they know they are appreciated. In the digital age, this is easier than ever!
Rewards programs, referral perks, newsletters, and online-exclusive content are just a few ways you can digitally connect with your regular Pilates clients and followers. You can even frame online exclusive content as a ‘V.I.P.’ perk with offers such as a portal or access to online seminars and classes.
Humans are creatures of habit. As long as you make sure you are consistently giving your customers a reason to return, they are more likely to do so.
#2 Get Serious with Social Media
Almost everyone uses social media on a regular basis. This makes it an excellent tool to engage with your Pilates clients online. Consider which platforms your clients engage with most often – whether that’s Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, or all of the above. If you’re not sure, ask them regularly!
Be mindful that you should only embrace a platform if you’re able to give it the attention it needs to effectively engage with your followers. Consider whether boosting posts (regular posts that you pay to get broader engagement) or paid advertising (specifically created advertisements with a range of analytical options) might be the best answer for your business.
In the fitness industry, it is actually easier than you may think to curate social media posts relevant to your brand. Some ideas include:
- Demonstration videos and images
- Promotions for upcoming events or deals
- Posts regarding hot and trending topics in the Pilates community
- ‘Aesthetic’ posts featuring mats, water bottles, grips, equipment, and more to inspire followers
Of course, you know better than anyone what your clients want to see and will respond to. It’s also okay if it takes some trial and error before you settle on a steady schedule.
#3 Nurture a Regular Blog
Finally, one of the best ways to regularly engage your client base and keep your business relevant online is to create and regularly update a blog. Leaving a larger footprint online will help boost your position in search engine results and inspire potential clients.
There are plenty of topics you can blog about as a Pilates business! Consider discussing trends within your community, health, nutrition, exercise, or even guides to help jumpstart people new to Pilates. This is also a great opportunity to celebrate your niche. If you’re an expert working with clients with specific needs, from a particular industry, or even a certain form of Pilates, share what you know!
Above all else, your digital marketing should represent you and your business. Take some time to think about how you can incorporate these trends into your specific brand of Pilates.
If you are looking for professional advocacy and a community of support to share ideas around digital marketing, consider becoming a member of The Pilates Method Alliance. Our new community forums provide an excellent opportunity for Pilates professionals to share, learn and grow together. Learn more here.