Geared Up Issue 1 2018 | Page 38

Back to School: Franchisees Find Success With Internship Programs F or Planet Fitness® franchisees, finding talent and quality labor will forever be a reality of doing business. Some franchisees, however, have found success in bypassing traditional hiring methods by looking to local educational organizations to locate fresh-minded team members. Aside from providing a solution to the need for temporary or part-time help, bringing in college students shows a commit- ment to a younger demographic. After all, it is these individuals who will grow to become the business leaders of the future. Each franchise group that offers internship opportunities structures their program in a slightly different way, but for most groups, it all starts with career fairs. Sunshine Fitness Looks to Master Marketing “We have partnerships with area colleges such as the University of Central Florida, Rollins College and Full Sail University,” said Anthony Roberts Jr., marketing manager with Eric Dore and Shane McGuiness’s Sunshine Fitness Management. “Annually, we attend their career fairs to raise awareness for job and 36 The marketing department at Sunshine Fitness hired Ken Landis, left, as an intern in 2017. Landis gained skills in marketing, communica- tions, social media and content marketing during his tenure with the franchise group. career opportunities we have – whether they are interested in careers in the fitness lifestyle industry or just looking to make extra money while in school.” Sunshine Fitness Management’s internship program, established in 2017, was geared toward individuals looking to gain experience in marketing, commu- by Christina Cannon nications, social media or content marketing. After attending career fairs and vetting resumes, the company conducts in-person interviews. “Once an interview is scheduled, applicants are tasked with visiting the nearest Planet Fitness, provided a week pass and informed to report back their thoughts on the company/atmosphere of our gyms to see if they consider it a best-fit for them,” explained Roberts Jr. “This was essential due to the individual having to work in an office setting but on behalf of our clubs. So, visiting a club would provide them with a sense of our brand and its unique offerings.” After receiving over 50 applications, Sunshine Fitness Management brought Ken Landis on board. “Ken was ultimately selected due