Mini interview with WMF member Heather Gillam

Heather Gillam runs personal training company Fitbiz Training, http://www.fitbiztraining.co.uk

Heather, tell us a little bit about your business and what you do.

My business is providing Personal Training and Nutrition Advice to a wide variety of clients in the Surrey / West Sussex area. I write tailor-made exercise programs for each client to get them to their goals as quickly and as safely as possible. We do their training in their house, to make it easier and more accessible for more people to get a healthier lifestyle.

What has been most successful for you in marketing your business?

Because I sell myself, I have found getting myself "out there" and positioned as an expert, who does her bit for the local area, has been very effective for me. I found that I enjoyed writing, so have worked on getting as much as I can - I've just agreed to write for the Surrey Monocle every month and have been the Fitness Expert in Your Surrey Wedding magazine for almost a year. This will hopefully give me something to fall back on if I need to too! I have also donated a couple of raffle prizes for local school / charity fairs, and this has got my name around the local area.

What didn't go so well and what did you learn from the experience?

I have learnt that paying for advertising isn't worth it! I've got all my best work from writing, which at the minute I do for free.

What advice can you offer other women small business owners based on your experiences of promoting what you do?

My best advice for people selling themselves is to get as much promotion for free as possible - position yourself as an expert by writing and talking to as many local people / businesses as you can. Networking is also great for getting your name around!