Running a Sports Facility – Upper Hand https://upperhand.com Wed, 20 Mar 2024 19:24:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://upperhand.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/cropped-New-small-sticker-logo-32x32.webp Running a Sports Facility – Upper Hand https://upperhand.com 32 32 How to Hire the Right People for Your Sports Facility https://upperhand.com/how-to-hire-the-right-people-for-your-sports-facility/ Tue, 27 Feb 2024 10:30:00 +0000 https://upperhand.com/?p=40818
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How to Hire the Right People for Your Sports Facility

In the competitive landscape of sports facilities, the team behind the scenes plays a pivotal role in defining success, shaping young athletes, and fostering a positive community. Hiring the right people is more than a necessity—it’s an art. Combining strategic insights with tangible action plans, this comprehensive guide offers sports business owners a roadmap to assembling a dream team that not only excels in their roles but also embodies the facility’s values and ethos.

Reflect your values

Begin with clarity on what your sports facility stands for. Identify core values—be it teamwork, integrity, or resilience—and weave these into your hiring process. Craft interview questions that probe into how candidates have lived these values in their past roles. This alignment between personal and organizational values lays the groundwork for a unified and motivated team.

Leverage digital platforms

In today’s digital age, platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and specialized sports job boards are invaluable for attracting talent. Use these tools to broadcast your hiring needs, ensuring that job descriptions vividly portray the skills, attitudes, and values you’re seeking. This clarity attracts suitable candidates and deters those less aligned with your vision.

Engage youth and community

Local high schools and colleges are treasure troves of potential staff who bring enthusiasm and a fresh perspective. Offering internships or part-time roles not only aids their development but also strengthens your facility’s ties with the community. Furthermore, participating in industry events and forging partnerships with educational institutions can open doors to a wider pool of candidates passionate about sports and recreation.

Foster a collaborative hiring process

Involving your current team in the hiring process can offer deeper insights into a candidate’s fit within your culture. This collaborative approach ensures that new hires will integrate well with the team, enhancing workplace harmony and productivity. Moreover, it empowers your existing staff, making them feel valued and involved in shaping the future of the facility.

Build a strong employer brand

A compelling employer brand is essential to attract the best talent. Showcase your facility’s culture, achievements, and the impact it has on athletes and the community through your website and social media. Highlighting real stories and testimonials can make your facility an attractive place to work.

Implement a structured interview process

A structured interview process that evaluates both skills and cultural fit is crucial. Incorporate behavioral questions and practical assessments to gauge how candidates handle relevant situations. This approach ensures you hire individuals who not only have the requisite skills but also thrive in your facility’s environment.

Offer competitive compensation and benefits

Attractive compensation packages and benefits are key to securing top talent. Beyond fair wages, consider offering perks such as professional development opportunities, wellness programs, and flexible schedules. These benefits not only attract candidates but also contribute to their long-term satisfaction and retention.

Emphasize continuous learning and development

In the fast-evolving sports industry, a commitment to continuous learning is vital. Look for candidates eager to grow and stay updated on the latest trends. Providing ongoing training ensures your team remains at the forefront, enhancing the facility’s competitiveness and appeal to ambitious professionals.

Hiring the right team for your sports facility is a strategic endeavor that demands attention to detail, creativity, and a deep understanding of your organizational culture and goals. By embedding your values into the hiring process, leveraging digital and community resources, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment, and prioritizing continuous development, you can attract and retain a team that not only meets but exceeds expectations. This team will not just support the operational success of your facility but will also play a crucial role in mentoring young athletes, shaping them into not only better sportspeople but better individuals. Remember, the strength of your facility lies in the collective spirit and dedication of the people behind it, making the art of hiring not just a necessity but a cornerstone of your success.

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]]> 23 Ways to Provide an All-Star Client Experience https://upperhand.com/23-ways-to-provide-an-all-star-client-experience/ Tue, 13 Feb 2024 15:00:53 +0000 https://upperhand.com/?p=36878
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23 Ways to Provide an All-Star Client Experience

Creating an all-star experience for clients and athletes is not just a goal but a necessity for sports business owners striving to excel in a competitive market. Whether it’s a large sports club, training academy, or recreational team, the success of any sports business hinges on its ability to create an environment where clients and athletes feel valued, supported, and inspired to achieve their goals.

In this era of heightened competition, those who prioritize the all-star client experience not only stand out but also cultivate lasting relationships with their clients. Let’s delve into 23 strategies and practices that can elevate your sports business to all-star status.

1. Ensure that every person who walks through your door is greeted with a smile

First impressions are very important – they set the tone for the entire customer experience. Ensuring that each client who walks into your establishment is greeted and provided with what they need gives you a competitive advantage.

You know how awkward it can feel if you walk into a business and the front desk staff doesn’t speak to you or isn’t even there. Instead, a warm greeting will help clients (especially new clients) feel welcome in your space, starting their experience on the right foot.

2. Write personalized notes for new clients

Writing a handwritten or digital note for new clients is a great way to treat them like the all-stars they are. Let them know that you are happy they tried out your business, and that you hope to see them again soon. This is another great way to make new clients feel welcome in your space.

3. Say thank you

Life is busy, and your clients are choosing to spend their time and money on your business. Make sure to thank your clients every chance you get for that. This is a tremendous way to show them that they are all-stars.

4. Highlight athlete wins on social media

Everyone likes to be recognized for their hard work. Utilize your social media to create a community of athletes and reach new clients. Post your clients on social media when they reach a goal, break a record, or show a great attitude.

5. Support athletes outside of the facility

If you run a sports training business, you can support your athletes by attending their school or club games. If you have athletes who go on to play collegiately, you can keep up with their games, show your support, and continue to be their cheerleaders. This shows your athletes that they matter to you – whether or not they are training with you.

6. Prioritize Flexibility

Embracing flexibility is key to providing an all-star experience for your clients. Life is unpredictable, and when unforeseen circumstances arise that require your clients to reschedule their appointments, showing a willingness to accommodate their needs can make all the difference. Strive to adjust and reorganize schedules to meet their requests. Employing a team that is adaptable and understanding shows a commitment to client satisfaction. While it’s understood that accommodating every request is not always feasible, demonstrating an effort to be as flexible as possible reinforces the message that your clients are valued and their needs are a top priority.

7. Customize each training program

Each athlete and client is different, and each training program should reflect that. Customizing programs differently for each client shows that you go the extra mile to differentiate from your competitors.

8. Hire staff members who reflect your values

You may not have the time to get to know every single client on a personal level. Hiring staff who are committed to your vision will help you reach your goals. If your staff is committed to your goals, they will go the extra mile to give clients an all-star experience.

9. Keep in touch with your clients

Keep in touch with your clients, whether you see them every week or haven’t seen them in years. Maintaining relationships with clients shows that you care about them. And, they may decide to come back later or refer a friend to your business.

10. Set client goals and stick to them

Of course, you know that setting goals for your clients is important. However, sticking to and evaluating them sometimes falls through. When setting goals, make sure to have a measurable outcome with an amount of time you have to reach said goal. When a client can visualize a goal and see their progress, it makes the hard work worth it. If they don’t reach their goal, that is an opportunity to make a change to their plan. As they reach their goals, they will see themselves as an all-star too!

11. Emotionally connect

One way to connect with your clients on a personal level is to remember a few details about their personal life and ask about it when you see them. It is very meaningful when someone remembers a small detail you told them, despite the many conversations they have everyday. Your clients know that you’re busy and you are an inspiration to lots of people, so it is significant when you show that you care about them.

12. Send birthday cards

Sending birthday cards to your clients is a wonderful gesture that personalizes their experience with your business. It’s a simple yet impactful way to show clients they are more than just a number to you; they’re valued members of your community. Recognizing their special day not only strengthens your relationship but also reinforces their significance to your team. Whether it’s a traditional card or a digital greeting, this thoughtful act of kindness demonstrates your commitment to celebrating personal milestones alongside them.

13. Engage with parents

If you run a youth sports business, your athlete’s parents are the ones paying for their programs, driving them to training, and supporting them. A great way to build relationships with your clients is to engage with and thank their parents for all they do. Not only do your youth athletes deserve to be treated like all-stars, their parents do too.

14. Cultivate a client community

Creating a sense of community among your clients is a powerful way to enhance their overall experience. Organize events, competitions, or group training sessions that encourage interaction and camaraderie. These activities not only foster a supportive environment but also motivate clients by surrounding them with like-minded individuals who share their goals and passions. Building this type of community within your business can lead to lasting friendships among clients, increased motivation, and a stronger allegiance to your brand, as clients feel they are part of something larger than their individual goals.

15. Administer cleanliness and safety

Ensuring your facility is not only clean but also safe is paramount. A clean environment shows your clients you respect their health and well-being, making them feel secure and focused on their training. Implementing cleaning schedules and safety protocols demonstrates your commitment to an all-star client experience.

16. Ask for feedback

Engaging with your clients by asking for their feedback is crucial. It shows that you value their opinions and are committed to continuous improvement. Utilize surveys, suggestion boxes, and direct conversations to gather insights, and actively make changes based on their responses to enhance their experience.

17. Streamline processes

Make registration, scheduling, and payment processes as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Utilizing a sports management software like Upper Hand to streamline these operations can significantly improve client experience, reducing frustration and allowing more time for what matters most – their goals and progress.

18. Offer member-exclusive discounts

A great way to make your clients feel like stars is to provide discounts on training and merch, and offer events exclusively for members. This not only adds value to their membership but also encourages them to take advantage of your training, enhancing your relationship with your clients. Upper Hand’s client management software for coaches offers great ways to reward your loyal members!

19. Introduce Auto-Recurring Memberships

Auto-recurring memberships simplify the renewal process for clients and provide a steady revenue stream for your business. Ensure clients are clearly informed about the terms and benefits, making it an attractive and convenient option for continuous engagement. Upper Hand’s membership management software allows you to make your memberships auto-recurring.

20. Communicate well

Clear, concise, and effective communication is the key to avoiding misunderstandings and building trust. It is important to communicate with clients, parents, and staff and always make sure that the communication can go both ways. Be open to feedback and opinions! Whether it’s through newsletters, social media, or face-to-face interactions, make sure your messages are timely, relevant, and reflective of your brand’s voice.

21. Listen to and solve problems

When issues arise, listen attentively to your clients’ concerns, take responsibility, and work towards a swift resolution. Demonstrating accountability and willingness to rectify mistakes builds trust and shows clients they are valued. A great leader jumps on any opportunity to create a better experience for their clients- whether it’s stocking toilet paper in the bathroom, helping a staff member get a client checked in, or providing a discount for someone who had a poor experience, being ready to solve any problem shows clients that they are all-stars to you.

22. Send reminders

Life gets busy, and clients appreciate reminders about their upcoming sessions, events, or renewals. Personalized reminders not only help reduce no-shows but also enhance the client experience by demonstrating your attentiveness and organizational skills. Utilize Upper Hand’s marketing and contact management tools to send automated reminders to clients!

23. Collect data

Gather data on client preferences, attendance, and feedback to inform your business strategies and tailor your services to meet their needs better. This data-driven approach enables you to make informed decisions that can significantly improve client satisfaction and retention. Upper Hand AI is a great tool to collect data while you focus on training athletes.

Incorporating these strategies into your business model can dramatically enhance the client experience, setting your sports business apart as a leader in providing an all-star service. By focusing on these aspects, you’re not just meeting expectations; you’re exceeding them, fostering loyalty, and building a community of clients who feel valued, supported, and motivated to achieve their best.

 

Read more about how you can utilize software to manage your sports business!

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]]> How to Use Upper Hand to Increase Efficiency at Your Sports Business https://upperhand.com/how-to-use-upper-hand-to-increase-efficiency/ Tue, 23 Jan 2024 16:06:09 +0000 https://upperhand.com/?p=36602
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How to Use Upper Hand to Increase Efficiency at Your Sports Business

Whether you’re a sports business owner, manager, coach, or trainer, you know firsthand how administrative tasks pile up. Keeping operations running efficiently can be a struggle with all of the tasks that you juggle.

Upper Hand is designed to help your business run more effectively and cater to your business needs. Here are some ways that Upper Hand can assist in making your sports business more efficient.

Improve operations

Upper Hand streamlines all of your operational tasks, resulting in more time for you to train athletes. Features such as scheduling and registration, resource management, marketing tools, payment processing, and more will help you keep your business organized.

An owner of a baseball training academy says this about his experience using Upper Hand:

“With Upper Hand, group training is a lot more possible than without it. And I think with the groups, we can get a 20 to 25 percent revenue increase that we wouldn’t have had. If it wasn’t for Upper Hand, it would be tough to do it because there’s not enough time in the day and it probably would have just burned me out completely.”

Not only does Upper Hand help improve operations, but it also opens up time for you to create more programs, resulting in a revenue increase.

Improve client experience

As a business owner or coach, your relationships with your clients are very important. There is increasing competition in the sports business world, and the human touch that you bring to the table is what sets you apart from the competition. Many clients or athletes won’t think twice about switching to another training facility if they have a bad experience.

With Upper Hand, you can ensure a seamless booking experience. From a smooth scheduling and registration process to sending automated reminders and marketing emails before your events, to allowing a variety of payment options, your clients will be happy doing business with you. And, with less confusion on logistics, you can spend time getting to know and building relationships with your clients.

Offer an easy training process for new staff

Utilize Upper Hand’s education resources when training new staff. If you have front desk staff that often rotates, whether they’re summer employees, high school students, etc, you may find yourself tired from having to train your staff. Upper Hand University is a great way to train your employees without cutting into your busy schedule.

Upper Hand University (UHU) features videos that walk through each software feature. Utilize UHU to train staff how to use Upper Hand, and select the tutorials you need depending on the features you use the most. Take some training tasks off your back with Upper Hand University.

Ditch the pen and paper

Going digital is the key to increasing efficiency in your business. Gone are the days when you have to write down attendance, manually organize data, play phone tag with clients, and remember to collect payments in person. Having all of your information in one sports management app will save you time and headaches. With Upper Hand’s mobile app, you can manage your business from anywhere while getting ahead of the competition through data collection.

Athlete progression tracking

Athlete progression tracking is a great example of utilizing data collection to improve. Track your athletes’ workouts, improvements, injuries, and more. By seeing your athletes’ data in one place, you can make informed decisions when individualizing each training program, coaching your teams strategically, and monitoring progress.

Upper Hand AI

Another way to collect data efficiently is to utilize Upper Hand AI. Upper Hand’s dedicated data team interprets your business data and provides visuals to help understand it. Upper Hand AI allows you to:

  • Track which event types and times bring you the most revenue
  • Gather geographical information on your audience to make better marketing choices
  • Forcast industry trends that will drive revenue
  • Gain access to marketing insights from other platforms

With Upper Hand AI, you receive data that can be used to make informed decisions and drive revenue each year. You also do not have to go through the hassle of collecting papers, keeping track of data, and interpreting it on your own. Upper Hand’s data team is passionate about what they do and excited to help you grow your business through data analysis.

At the end of the day, you can run your business using a pen and paper. However, you can expand your business to new heights with Upper Hand. Not only does Upper Hand’s sports management software help your business run more efficiently, but it also allows you to introduce more programs, grow your revenue, and focus on what you love- training athletes.

 

If you don’t yet have a sports management software, Upper Hand can help! Get a demo of Upper Hand AI today, and see how you can start making better decisions backed by data.

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]]> The 6-Step Process for Forecasting Sales at your Sports Facility https://upperhand.com/6-step-process-for-forecasting-sales-sports-facility/ Thu, 18 Jan 2024 13:48:52 +0000 https://upperhand.com/?p=36528
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The 6-Step Process for Forecasting Sales at your Sports Facility

How often do you check the weather forecast?

If I had to guess, you probably check it daily. Maybe multiple times a day.

Before you go outside. Do I need an umbrella?
As you get dressed for a workout. Is it shorts weather?
While you’re packing for a trip. Ahh, yes, warm and sunny all week – perfect for the beach!

Forecasting the weather helps you make decisions and plan for the future. You rely on the forecast to make plans or best prepare for a day’s activities.

But, are you checking the sales forecast for your sports facility?

Sales forecasting plays a pivotal role in financial planning for a sports facility, providing a clear estimate of future revenue and anticipated expenses.

Forecasting helps you efficiently allocate your resources, staff, and equipment to meet client demand without overspending. And, it helps you make strategic decisions. To help combat seasonality, you can use this information to identify peak seasons and low demand periods, and identify opportunities for marketing, pricing, and promotion adjustments.

So, what exactly is sales forecasting, and how can you get started for your business? In this article, we’ll dive into these answers.

What is sales forecasting?

Sales forecasting is the process of estimating future sales performance based on historical data, market analysis, and other influencing factors. For sports facility owners, sales forecasting can help you make informed decisions, allocate resources efficiently, and proactively adapt to changing market conditions.

Sales forecasting can not only help from a numbers standpoint but also when it comes to resource allocation, staffing optimization, and marketing strategies in alignment with anticipated trends. Additionally, it can help you make better, more informed decisions as you navigate potential opportunities for growth, expansion, or investments.

How to Forecast Sales for your Sports Facility

Step 1: Understand your market (and clients)

The first step when forecasting sales at your sports facility is to gain a strong understanding of your market. It’s likely you already have a good sense of the types of programs you offer, how you are different from your competitors, and what kinds of athletes you serve. But, market research is paramount to forecasting your sales, as it sets the tone for the rest of your strategy. Without a comprehensive understanding of the market, you lack the context you need to make informed decisions that lead to growth.

Start by conducting a thorough analysis of the demographic factors in your area. Identify the age groups, economic backgrounds, and sport preferences of your potential (and current) clientele. And, take a look at your competitors through conducting a competitive analysis. This will help you identify your unique selling proposition, thus helping you capitalize on your strengths. This understanding will equip you with the information you need to strategically position your facility in the market, tailor your services to meet the demands and needs of your clients, and ultimately help you accurately forecast your sales.

Step 2: Analyze historical data

Analyzing historical data stands as another critical and foundational step in the sales forecasting process for sports facilities. In order to get to where you want to be, you must understand where your business is in the present. By diving into this information – for example revenue, program utilization, and customer retention rates – you’re able to uncover patterns, trends, strengths, and challenges. This context provides the essential baseline for making informed predictions and strategic decisions that affect your future.

Using a sports management software like Upper Hand makes it easy for you to view your past finances at a glance. Upper Hand AI, empowers you to maximize your sports facility business potential with data-driven insights through advanced reporting and visualizations.

Step 3: Explore seasonal trends and patterns

The next step when forecasting sales at your sports facility is to explore seasonal trends and patterns within your sports business. Inherently, there is seasonality in sports, and demand for your programs likely fluctuates based on external factors like school breaks, holidays, or in- vs off-season training seasons.

Recognizing and understanding these seasonal patterns is crucial when forecasting your sales, as you can proactively prepare for peak periods and optimize resource allocation during slower times. Additionally, you can gain a greater understanding of when your programs are most in demand. This empowers you to strategically plan marketing campaigns, promotions, and staffing needs to capitalize on these time periods. Conversely, you can identify your “slower” seasons, thus providing an opportunity to implement targeted initiatives like special promotions or events to stimulate demand.

Ultimately, identifying seasonal patterns enables sports facility owners to manage their resources efficiently. Knowing when to expect a surge or decline in demand can help you better manage your inventory, staffing, and overall operational planning. You’ll not only ensure that your sports facility can meet the needs of your clientele, but also contribute to a more stable business model that can navigate the ebb and flow of seasonal demand.

Step 4: Create a marketing and promotional calendar

The next step when forecasting your sales involves creating (and analyzing) your marketing and promotional calendar. Once you’ve established a solid understanding of your historical data and identified any seasonal patterns, it’s crucial to align your forecasting efforts with your planned marketing initiatives.

For example, if you are planning a summer break camp, you can forecast an uptick in registrations during this targeted period. Similarly, if you are offering a new client promotion for the new year, you may also anticipate an increase in membership sales during that time.

As you continue to fine-tune your sales forecasts, you can make them more accurate and actionable. Like mentioned in Step 2, you can update your marketing/ promotional calendar to stimulate new interest during lulls, or capitalize on times of high demand. Additionally, alignment between your operational and marketing initiatives makes for a holistic approach to business planning and growth for your sports facility.

Step 5: Gather and leverage customer feedback and surveys

Ultimately, while it’s crucial to use the numbers and data surrounding your business to make decisions, it is also important to engage with your client base to balance the quantitative data with qualitative data. The best way to do this – engaging with your customers and prospects.

Collecting feedback from your clients and prospects contributes to a more customer-centric approach to sales forecasting. This ensures that your predictions align with the evolving needs and expectations of your target market. A good way to start is through marketing surveys or collecting reviews. Ask clients about their experiences, intentions, the effectiveness of your programs, or areas for improvement. Understanding the factors that contribute to customer satisfaction or purchasing decisions can help you plan to meet these needs, thus helping you forecast sales for your business.

Ready to get started?

By following this 6-step process, you’ll be well-equipped to start forecasting sales at your sports facility. Whether you have a robust sports facility management software to store your data, or you’re just getting started with data collection, the hardest part is just getting started. Sales forecasting has a number of benefits for sports facilities – it can help you adjust your programming, help you navigate seasonality, and ultimately set you up for success both now and in the future.

If you don’t yet have a sports management software, Upper Hand can help! Get a demo of Upper Hand AI today, and see how you can start making better decisions backed by data.

 

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]]> Read This Before Running Your Next Sports Camp https://upperhand.com/read-this-before-running-your-sports-camp/ Tue, 16 Jan 2024 15:50:15 +0000 https://upperhand.com/?p=36540
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Read This Before Running Your Next Sports Camp

Sports camps are often the highlight of a young athlete’s summer. Whether you’re hosting a day camp or an overnight one, a lot of planning is involved. With camps being many sports businesses’ largest source of revenue, you want to make it worth the time and money being spent. Here are some tips that will help your camp run as smoothly as possible.

1. Make sure you have enough help

Finding the right staff members to help run your camp is very important. They are the ones that your campers will look up to and learn from. Make sure to recruit passionate staff members with a variety of experience.

Having even a few staff members to help you organize a sports camp will make all the difference. It is a good idea to assign a staff member or two who can work behind the scenes, coordinating schedules, communicating with parents, and making sure things run smoothly.

Recruit volunteers

Try to find willing volunteers to help with your sports camp. Try the local high school team to see if anyone is interested in coaching. Many high school students are looking for opportunities to improve and gain volunteer experience for their college applications. They are also great role models for young athletes.

2. Determine your goals

When planning your camp, map out what your goals are. What do you want campers to walk away with? What message can you convey that sets you apart from other sports camps? What skill level/ages are you serving? When you create goals for your sports camp, you will have an easier time planning the smaller details.

3. Create a budget

When planning your camp, create a realistic budget for how much you will spend on your camp- space, food, water, swag, staff, etc. Allot for unexpected expenses as well. When you have a clear idea of how much you will spend, you can make a more accurate price for your sports camp.

Solicit donations

Asking for donations is a great way to help lower your camp cost. Many people would be happy to donate to youth sports camps, as they nurture the next generation of athletes. Furthermore, if you can lower your registration costs, you provide more opportunities to athletes who couldn’t afford it otherwise.

4. Recruit a successful role model

To keep things exciting, invite a celebrity guest on one of the camp days. This could be a star high school or college athlete to help coach, run drills, and give tips. This will be very encouraging to your campers, leaving them inspired and ready to work hard.

5. Provide uniforms/t-shirts

Every camper loves coming home with swag to show off. You can even hand out different color shirts depending on the team or age of the athletes. And, when your campers wear their t-shirts to school or practice, they advertise for you!

6. Send reminder emails

Make sure to remind athletes and parents when your sports camp is coming up and when to register. Life gets busy and parents might need a few reminders before signing up, so don’t be afraid to send emails reminding parents to register their athletes, sign a waiver, and submit payments. Send marketing reminders through the Upper Hand app.

7. Be prepared

Being ready for anything will help you go into your camp feeling calm, confident, and focused. Though it’s great to have a positive mindset, preparing for unexpected events is very smart.

Bad weather

Make a plan for unexpected bad weather. Whether you choose to play in the rain, practice inside, play bonding games, or watch a video, have an idea of what to do if bad weather arises. You can still make your sports camp worth it by teaching your campers something new while keeping it fun!

Injuries

Make sure to have a first aid kit on hand or medical support ready in case of injuries. Of course, it is important to incorporate stretching, warm-ups, and other preventative methods, but in the unfortunate event of an injury, you will be ready to handle it.

Download Our Athlete Waiver

Make a cheat sheet

Once your schedule is made and ready to go, create a 1-2 page cheat sheet with everything you need to know. Keep this on you during camp so that you always know your game plan. Give your staff members copies as well so that everyone is on the same page.

Download Our Event Planning Checklist

Create a conflict resolution plan

Take some time with your staff to think through anything that could go wrong during your sports camp and create a plan for each situation. Though it’s not ideal to think of everything that could go wrong, and chances are things will turn out great, it is still a good idea to be prepared for anything.

Include a plan of action guide on your cheat sheet so that your staff knows exactly how to handle any situation that comes up. When you have a plan for every situation, you will feel confident each day of your camp.

Stay hydrated

Though it seems obvious, make sure athletes are drinking enough water throughout the day. Include water stations next to each playing space and give water breaks every hour.

8. Don’t forget to take photos

Camps can get so busy that you forget to document them. Assign a staff member to take pictures each day. You can use these for your social media, send them to parents, and look back and remember what a successful camp you had.

9. Give awards

At the end of the week, host an award ceremony to honor the happy campers who made the week great. This is a great way to encourage them, and include a variety of awards to cater to different athletes.

10. Ask for feedback

After camp is over, reach out to your campers and parents for feedback on how the week went. You will refer to this feedback when planning for next year’s camp, and continue to improve every year.

11. Provide evaluations for athlete growth

Send each campers home with an evaluation of what they did well, what they can work on, which drills to practice, and how they can improve by next year. Also, include how they improved during camp and give them credit for their hard work. Providing this feedback shows that you care about each camper and want to help them advance their skills.

12. Create a friend referral discount

To boost your numbers next year, offer campers a discount who bring a friend to next year’s camp. Not only will this bring new campers, but you can also continue to work with your returning athletes.

Planning a sports camp is a lot. There are hundreds of details to keep track of, but preparation, intentionality, and organization will help everything run smoothly. Oh, and don’t forget to have fun!

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]]> How to Juggle Practice Schedules for Sports Clubs https://upperhand.com/how-to-juggle-practice-schedules-sports-clubs/ Tue, 09 Jan 2024 15:15:36 +0000 https://upperhand.com/?p=36523
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How to Juggle Practice Schedules for Sports Clubs

Managing your sports club’s team practice schedule isn’t easy, especially if you are coaching multiple teams. If you’re not careful, you may find yourself in over your head, feeling like you’re constantly juggling various tasks.

We get it. Though there’s no secret formula to make it all simple, these tips can help you better undertake all of your tasks at once. Here are 8 ways to make juggling a practice schedule for a sports club look easy.

 

Assess team needs

Your team is your #1 priority. Keeping your eye on your vision is a great way to serve your team. Map out your goals and objectives for the season, and periodically evaluate yourself to make sure you are going in the right direction. Also consider each player’s needs and skill development, so that you can help each athlete improve.

 

Preparation is key

Being prepared is a great way to stay on top of your schedule. Make sure to intentionally plan what you will do for each practice. Ensure that you have the proper space booked out for practices and the proper equipment for drills, gameplay, etc.

 

Prioritize

Identify the crucial drills and exercises your team needs to work on, and prioritize these for the beginning of practice. It is also important to allocate time for team bonding, as well as time to discuss strategies.

 

Be flexible

While you can plan and prioritize all you want, unexpected events are bound to happen during practice; bad weather, having to share practice space, unexpected interruptions, etc. Having strategies for quick adjustments is necessary in case of unforeseen changes. If you have a plan for these events, you will save yourself time and stress trying to figure out a solution.

Moreover, a part of being flexible is understanding that your athletes have external events, school schedules, and social lives. Try your best to be aware of this, and to ensure harmony between your sports club and external commitments.

 

Balance the workload

Creating balance is key, not just for your athletes but for you too. Maintaining balance helps prevent burnout and mistakes, and keeps the quality of your work better. For your athletes, it is important to avoid burnout by managing the intensity and duration of workouts. Furthermore, incorporate and encourage rest days to prevent injury.

 

Incorporate regular adjustments

Great coaches like yourself know how to adapt. It is important to review your schedule throughout the season and make necessary adjustments based on athlete performance, feedback, and your goals. It is okay to tweak your strategy, schedule, and practices in order to better serve your team.

 

How to manage practice schedules

If you have many schedules, staff, resources, and communication circuits to juggle, finding the right technology is key. Upper Hand’s sports team software is your best friend as a sports club owner, manager, or coach.

 

Implement sports management software

When juggling multiple tasks and schedules, sports management software is necessary. Upper Hand streamlines management and scheduling, ensuring parents, athletes, and coaches are on the same page. Upper Hand is unique, having the ability to show your staff, resource, and practice schedules in one view. No longer do you have to worry about double booking a space or staff member.

Track players’ progress

Tracking athletes’ changes, improvements, and skills is very important. By tracking progress, you can detect signs of burnout and injury, and make adjustments accordingly. You can also set proper goals, strategically develop players, collect data over time, and build a stronger team. Upper Hand’s athlete progression tracking features are a great way to help each athlete improve.

 

Communicate with your athletes

Keep everyone in the know by emailing your practice schedule, posting it on Facebook, and publishing it on your website. This way, everyone knows exactly where to be and when. Send emails and automated reminders before each event with Upper Hand’s marketing features.

There are many strategies to better juggle your practice schedule for your sports club. Incorporating each of these tricks will lead to better organization, resulting in less confusion. It is a lot of work to manage all of your practices, but you can do it with these tips.

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]]> 7 Tips to Increase New Membership Sales at your Sports Facility https://upperhand.com/7-tips-to-increase-sports-facility-membership-sales/ Thu, 30 Nov 2023 20:52:00 +0000 https://upperhand.com/?p=36153
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7 Tips to Increase New Membership Sales at your Sports Facility

Continuing to grow membership sales requires ongoing attention and prioritization. To really get it right, it takes time and effort to establish a strategy that works for your facility.

The challenge of attracting new members is not merely aesthetic; it’s a financial hurdle that can jeopardize your training center’s longevity and profitability. Regardless of your business’s focus, mastering the art of attracting, converting, and retaining members for your training facility is paramount for long term success.

As the new year approaches, it’s the perfect time to refine your membership sales strategy and elevate your game.

So, how can you propel your sports business towards increased membership sales?

How to Increase Membership Sales

1. Create targeted marketing campaigns

One of the first questions to ask when implementing memberships (or any program!) is “who are my ideal members?” Write down the characteristics of target clientele – for example their behaviors, goals, interests, and needs.

Once you’ve identified your target audience, you can create marketing campaigns that resonate with those interests and needs. Utilize your various marketing channels to reach potential members through online advertising, social media, and email marketing. For example, in Upper Hand, you can filter your contacts to identify your contacts that are not yet in a membership, and send them a marketing email encouraging them to explore the benefits of a membership. Or, run a small social media ad campaign to people in your area with an introductory offer.

2. Run promotional offers & discounts

Speaking of running an introductory offer, another way to entice clients to enroll in a membership is to introduce special promotions or discounts for new members. This could include waiving the join fee or offering the membership at a discounted rate for the first few months.

To create a sense of urgency, you may consider offering these promotional discounts or offers for a limited time only. With the new year approaching, now may be a great time to run a promotion.

Related: 3 Holiday Promotion Ideas you can steal for your business.

3. Invest in your staff (your sales team!)

You may have the best offerings in the world, but if your team is not equipped with the tools and knowledge they need to make a sale, you could be missing out on the clientele and the revenue. So, it’s important that when strategizing about your membership sales, you don’t neglect to invest in your team.

Tools like ChatGPT can help you generate scripts that your staff members can use to communicate the value of your memberships and address customer inquiries. These scripts can be tailored to handle different scenarios – key selling points, common objections, exclusive benefits, and more. Remember, a well-informed and confident team armed with these insights can significantly impact the success of your membership sales strategy.

4. Incentivize your staff

On the topic of supporting your staff, another way to boost your membership sales is to reward your staff members when they make a sale. Consider offering a commission or incentive when a staff member sells a new client membership. This will provide a little extra motivation for them to actively engage with potential clients and showcase the value of your programming and offerings.

By implementing a commission or incentive structure, you’re not only able to recognize and appreciate your staff, but you can also foster a culture of sales excellence amongst your team. Additionally, this added motivation can translate into increased enthusiasm during customer interactions, which can ultimately result in higher conversion rates. Not to mention, it reinforces a sense of ownership, as they directly contribute to the growth and success of the sports facility.

5. Implement a referral program

Another impactful strategy to boost your sports facility membership sales is to empower your existing members as ambassadors through a robust referral program. Encourage your clients to become advocates for your facility by incentivizing and rewarding them for successfully referring new members. This incentive system could be a free credit for a class or program, or give them an Account Credit that they could use towards future purchases.

By turning your clients into enthusiastic brand advocates, you are tapping into the power of word-of-mouth marketing. This not only builds trust around your brand, but it also expands your reach to potential members who may be more receptive to joining as a result of that personal invitation. A well-executed referral program not only fuels the growth of your membership base; it also cultivates a supportive community atmosphere amongst your members.

6. Optimize your online presence

In today’s digital age, your online presence is often the first interaction potential members have with your sports business. Ensure your website is user-friendly, and makes it easy for prospective members to find information about your memberships (and your other offerings!). Investing in a compelling online experience will help you convert visitors into members and enhance your sports facility’s overall visibility.

In addition, it’s imperative that you are active on social media! Keep your social media profiles up to date with dynamic content – including member success stories, behind-the-scenes glimpses, announcements of upcoming events, special offers and more. By incorporating your memberships into your digital marketing strategy, you can create an online environment that captivates and converts prospective members, driving the success of your sports facility in a competitive space.

7. Make it easy to enroll

At the end of the day, if it is too complex or difficult to enroll in your sports facility’s memberships, prospective clients will take their business elsewhere. Even if you have a great script or are active on social media, unless you make it simple to enroll or request more information, you risk losing potential members who may opt for facilities with more straightforward processes. The journey from interest to enrollment should be a seamless transition, devoid of unnecessary hurdles.

A powerful sports facility management software will help you manage and sell your memberships with ease, both boosting your client experience and your bottom line. A sports software like Upper Hand makes it easy for clients to view membership benefits, compare offerings, and make decisions that are the best fit for them. This leads to increased client satisfaction, which ultimately results in increased brand loyalty (and, as mentioned previously, brand advocates)!

Related: Take an interactive tour of Upper Hand’s sports management software!

Ready to Increase Membership Sales?

Memberships are a great way to establish stability for your business, as the recurring revenue they provide helps you invest in your business and plan for the future. Whether you’re thinking about implementing a membership program for your business, or are looking to give your existing memberships a boost, these 7 strategies will help position you to make 2024 a great year for your sports facility.

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]]> Upper Hand Announces UPLIFT Sports Business Makeover to Empower Sports Communities https://upperhand.com/upper-hand-announces-uplift-business-makeover-2023/ Tue, 14 Nov 2023 21:06:41 +0000 https://upperhand.com/?p=35753
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Upper Hand Announces UPLIFT Sports Business Makeover to Empower Sports Communities

INDIANAPOLIS, November 14, 2023 — Upper Hand, an innovative leader in sports management software, announced today that it has launched the UPLIFT Sports Business Makeover. This initiative aims to honor remarkable sports facilities and coaching businesses that have made significant community impacts or triumphed over substantial challenges.

“Our UPLIFT Business Makeover is an opportunity to celebrate the resilience and dedication within the sports community,” said Kevin R. MacCauley, CEO of Upper Hand. “We’re eager to hear the inspiring stories and provide a deserving business with a transformation that encompasses state-of-the-art software, website upgrades, and a facility refresh.”

Sports facilities and coaching businesses are invited to share their compelling stories for a chance to win this comprehensive business makeover. The selection will focus on the story’s community impact and its significance within the sports sector.

“We believe in the power of these stories to inspire and lead the sports industry forward,” added MacCauley.

For more information, to apply, or to nominate a sports business, visit https://upperhand.com/uplift-business-makeover/.

About Upper Hand

Upper Hand is the leading provider of full-suite sports management software that enables businesses to achieve more while doing less. Sports facilities, studios, and businesses – from small enterprises to large franchises – use Upper Hand’s integrated software and payments platform to operate their business more efficiently, increase customer satisfaction, and leverage real-time data for better decision-making. Its product suite includes features to manage client booking and registration, memberships, staff and facility scheduling, retail, contact marketing, and more.

###

 

For press and media inquiries, please contact Mary Claire Timberlake, Director of Channel Partnerships, at maryclaire@getupperhand.com.

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]]> How should I charge customers? Top 5 Sports Business Pricing Models https://upperhand.com/top-5-sports-business-pricing-models/ Thu, 09 Nov 2023 01:40:38 +0000 https://upperhand.com/?p=35466
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How should I charge customers? Top 5 Sports Business Pricing Models

When it comes to operating a sports facility or training academy, one of the most important things to consider is finding the right pricing model. The right pricing strategy can impact client acquisition and retention. As the youth sports industry continues to evolve, so do sports pricing models.

With so many pricing options available, how do you know what is the best pricing model for your business? Here, we’ll take a look at a few of the most popular pricing models in the youth sports training industry.

 

5 Pricing Models for Sports Training

Pay as you Go

Clients purchase one-off lessons, camps, sessions, etc., as needed

With the “pay as you go” pricing model, your athletes only pay for what they use. This model provides customers with the freedom to pay for individual training sessions, lessons, or other programs as needed. This offers an appealing level of flexibility for clients, as they can choose and pay for lessons or sessions on a per-need basis. Additionally, this is a viable option for beginners or newcomers, as it offers a low-commitment entry point to gain exposure to sports training, and promotes exploration and diversity of training.

This pricing model, however, is generally not advisable as a stand-alone plan, as it results in inconsistent streams of revenue for the business. The unpredictability of cash flow may pose challenges in managing your facility’s operations or planning for the future. Additionally, as it relates to building a community of athletes and families, the pay as you go pricing model may hinder customer engagement and loyalty, in part due to the lack of a long-term commitment.

So, the pay as you go model is a popular and convenient option for sports facility owners, particularly when coupled with additional streams of revenue to increase stability and client loyalty.

Bundled Pricing

Buy a package of sessions at a slight discount

Another popular pricing model in the sports facility and sports academy industry is the bundled pricing model. This approach allows clients to purchase a package or “bundle” of training sessions or lessons, often at a slightly discounted rate. The bundled pricing strategy often leads to increased client loyalty and retention, as clients are incentivized to commit to multiple sessions upfront. And, from the facility’s perspective, bundled pricing leads to a more steady income stream, thus allowing your facility to plan its operations more effectively, and allocate resources more efficiently.

Not only does this provide more stability for your business in terms of revenue or client retention, but it also helps your athletes see more improvement in their sport. Clients who purchase a package of lessons up front are more likely to commit to regular training, which makes it easier to build on the progress they’ve made from past sessions. The more an athlete can track their progress and see results, the more motivated and committed they may become to improving their craft.

Let’s say you offer private lessons for $60/ hour. With a bundled pricing strategy, you may choose to offer a 4 pack of lessons for $200. When broken down, each lesson breaks down to $50. While the cost per session sees a slight decrease, you’ll see higher average purchases, and more predictable cash flow.

The bundled pricing plan provides an attractive option for customers who are committed to regular training; however, it does reduce flexibility, which could pose a risk of underutilization of your services. So, it’s important that you evaluate your business’s customer base and purchasing habits in order to effectively implement this pricing model.

 

Related: How should I price my sports lessons?

 

Membership pricing model

Clients pay a monthly recurring fee for access to perks and benefits

Memberships are another popular sports business pricing model, and for good reason. This approach focuses on building customer loyalty and long-term commitment, as clients are enrolled in an auto-renewing program in exchange for benefits and other perks.

One of the biggest benefits of a membership pricing model is the creation of a recurring revenue stream. Customers who enroll in a membership program are agreeing to make regular payments to your business, providing you with stable and predictable income. This stability allows you to plan for the future, invest in resources, and provide consistent services. Additionally, memberships promote a sense of brand loyalty and community, as customers “regularly” come to train, or take advantage of the benefits you are offering.

Membership benefits can, and should, vary depending on the offerings of your business, but often include a set number of session credits to be used towards specific offerings, or discounts on retail items of certain events (like camps and clinics). Another best practice when building your memberships is to take a look at your clients’ buying habits. For example, if your athletes tend to come in once per week for private lessons, create a membership that offers 4 session credits to be used towards private training.

While memberships have a number of substantial benefits, they may not be the best fit for every business. It’s important to consider how you will fully engage your clients and encourage them to maximize the use of your offerings. Additionally, some clients, especially those first exploring youth sports, may be deterred by the commitment and investment in a membership. So, you may want to couple this pricing model with some of the other pricing models we’re discussing in this post.

 

Dynamic Pricing Model

Pricing adjusts based on specific factors

A more complex pricing model in the sports facility and training industry is the dynamic pricing model. Dynamic pricing involves adjusting the price of services based on factors such as demand, the time of day, instructor, or other variables. The goal of dynamic pricing is to optimize revenue. For example, you may choose to charge more during peak hours or for high-demand services, and less for off-peak times. Similarly, as we’ll discuss below, some of your more tenured staff may have higher rates than your newer staff and instructors.

Dynamic pricing provides customers with flexibility to choose the pricing or timing that best meets their needs. But, this pricing model can be complex and confusing. When not properly executed, this pricing model can lead to customer dissatisfaction or the perception of price discrimination. So, if considering this plan, it’s important to effectively communicate with clients to ensure client satisfaction.

 

Instructor-Based Pricing

Pricing varies based on the instructor

Instructor-based pricing is another popular sports business pricing strategy in the youth sports industry. This pricing model involves charging different prices for lessons or sessions based on the instructor’s experience, expertise, or reputation. This approach allows customers to choose instructors according to their preferences and budget, and also acknowledges the varying skill levels and expertise of your hard-working staff.

With an instructor-based pricing model, you can open the door to allow customers to make informed choices when choosing which staff member to train with. It may also create an opportunity for premium services – for example, an instructor with a higher rate can offer more specialized or advanced training. Alternatively, a newer instructor who is looking to build a client base or gain more experience may offer training at a lower rate to attract more clients to book with that individual.

Similar to the dynamic pricing model, this pricing model can often become administratively complex. It’s crucial that you have the right technology, sports scheduling software, and other tools to effectively implement this pricing strategy. Additionally, you must consider price sensitivity in order to maintain customer satisfaction. While this is a great way to increase autonomy amongst your instructors, and encourage them to charge what they are worth, it’s important to consider the simplicity of an even-playing field.

 

So, which pricing strategy should I implement?

At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong way to price your sports business offerings. Ultimately, the right pricing strategy is the one that meets your clients’ needs, and supports your business offerings and goals. You may also find that the best solution for your business is to offer a combination of the pricing strategies we’ve discussed.

 

 

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]]> 5 Spooky Ideas for your Sports Facility in the Month of October https://upperhand.com/5-spooky-ideas-for-your-sports-facility/ Fri, 06 Oct 2023 13:23:30 +0000 https://upperhand.com/?p=34599
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5 Spooky Ideas for your Sports Facility in the Month of October

You’re always looking for fun ways to engage with your athletes without sacrificing the quality of the training you’re providing. With Halloween just around the corner, it’s a perfect opportunity to add a little holiday spirit to your facility or training academy. Here are 5 creative ideas you can incorporate to your sports training business to keep things fresh and spooky.

 

1. Have a costume contest

Nothing says Halloween like costumes! Encourage your athletes to wear fun costumes for their lessons or to your camp or clinic (see tip 5 below). Award a prize for “Best Dressed,” “Most Creative Costume,” or “Scariest Outfit.” This not only provides an outlet for athletes to show their creativity and personality, but also makes for great photo opportunities for social media!

 

2. Freshen up your workouts with creative names

Give your workouts a Halloween twist by renaming exercises or movements. Incorporate some deadlifts or spider pushups into the workout. Let goblet squats become goblin squats, and band walks turn into monster walks. Or, use pumpkins as weights instead of kettlebells. This simple, yet effective change can make your regular workouts feel fresh and exciting, adding a little Halloween fun to your programming.

 

3. Curate the perfect spooky playlist

Another easy way to add a little fun to your Halloween week training is through the perfect spooky soundtrack. Create a special Halloween playlist featuring iconic spooky songs. Not only will this set the mood, but it will also encourage your athletes to keep moving. From Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” to the Ghostbusters theme song, these songs are sure to have athletes moving.

(Bonus tip: Have your athletes submit their favorite sound to add to the playlist!)

 

4. Run a holiday promotion

Celebrating at your sports facility doesn’t have to be all tricks…you can also throw in some treats! You could also consider creating a special Halloween discount code to encourage athletes to book a new session or purchase something from your retail shop. For example, create a coupon code like “BOO15” for 15% off a private session. This not only helps to incentivize current athletes to get back on the books, but also gives potential new athletes a nudge.

 

5. Host a Halloween camp or clinic

In addition to tweaking your programming, you can also create and market your own spooky special event. Decorate your facility with cobwebs or jack-o-lanterns, provide some Halloween-themed snacks as a post-workout treat. Combined with some of the above ideas, you can create a unique program with games, exercise, and challenges.

For more tips on running a successful sports camp, check out our free sports camp guide here!

 

Ready to celebrate?

Halloween isn’t the only opportunity to mix up your training or offer a special promotion. But, infusing some spooky fun into your facility or academy can be a great way to embrace the holiday spirit. Whether you decide to have a costume contest, switch up your workouts or playlist, offer a promotion, or host a Halloween-specific event, these ideas will help you energize your athletes. And, you’ll help your business stand out from the crowd by creating a fun, creative community that extends beyond the hard work of your athletes and coaches day in and day out.


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