We recently connected with Marie Tabuena-urriola and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Marie, thanks for joining us today. Was there an experience or lesson you learned at a previous job that’s benefited your career afterwards?

Important lesson I had learned is to always put agreements in writing. Many people sign up for training with the best intentions. Unfortunately, there are many that lose their commitment and want to back out of the agreement. Putting everything in writing allows no room for misunderstandings and clarifies the boundaries and commitments determined on both parties. I had the unfortunate experience where a client verbally told me they wanted my service again, paid for it, then asked for money back. This was their second round of sessions so they understood the process and the service they were receiving. But due to their change of priorities, they wanted money back and yet I verbally said no refunds. I refunded the client out of good faith but promised myself after that to ALWAYS put everything in writing to avoid misunderstandings like this again.

Marie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am an in-home personal trainer. I deliver fitness to clients helping them save time and money. I create personalized workouts and bring equipment to their homes or choice of place to workout. I’ve been a personal trainer since 2005. I work with clients to improve their overall health and fitness. I work with people that are new or starting their fitness journey again.
Before 2005, I lived a very unhealthy lifestyle. I had to learn to change my lifestyle and lost 40lbs in the process. I dedicate my career path to my brother who passed in 2003.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Building my reputation happens with authenticity. Being original with every client and situation. I treat each client as an individual and do not have a generic routine. My services are personal and I make sure to acknowledge each client’s needs, wants, and overall goals.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

In the fitness industry, having “thick skin” is one of the necessities to succeeding. There are many staples as a personal trainer. Make yourself unique and approachable. Don’t let others judgements and opinions come between your passion if personal training is what you want to do.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @mturriola
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mturriola

Image Credits
Julia Rachel Photography