We were lucky to catch up with Nikki Major recently and have shared our conversation below.
Nikki, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?
After spending most of my life in Miami, I had built such a strong community in the fitness scene. A community that transcended typical gym culture, one that supported women in all things: work, relationships, life. So when I moved to DC for my partner’s career, I started back at zero. At first, I thought I’d lay low, stick to my day job, and get a feel for this new city’s vibe before jumping back into teaching. This worked out for a few months until I was laid off and realized I had no one in DC to turn to.
It was at that moment that I realized my work in fitness meant so much more than exercise. When all my chips were down, I decided to fully invest in my dance fitness classes, and lead with a community-based approach. Six years later,
we have an incredible dance fitness community by the name of the #VXNArmyDMV with over 10 instructors across the DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas.
Nikki, 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 go by the stage name Nikki Major. By day I work in social marketing and by night I work in the fitness space. I am a NASM AFAA-certified group fitness instructor with a Master ranking in the VXN Workout program.
VXN Workout is a dance fitness brand focused on improving physical & mental wellness. Our classes recreate the live stage experience by incorporating trending choreography, musical remixes, and atmosphere lighting. As a result, participants feel like performers.
Since VXN Workout’s founding in Miami and New York City, I’ve taught hundreds of classes across the U.S. I also serve as a VXN Workout Certification Instructor and support the brand’s international expansion.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
Social marketing is everything! A social presence goes a long way for any brand, especially when it comes to new acquisitions. Think of your social presence almost like a welcome mat. What kind of conversations is your profile hosting? What visual representations are you publishing to effectively capture your brand’s experience? This brand perception will garner more consideration from new clients. The same goes for retention – use social as a way to keep your brand top of mind!
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Meeting clients and other small businesses irl! I always strive to experience different fitness formats across the city. Taking the time to reverse roles and be the client is refreshing. This perspective helps me stay in touch with my programming. Additionally, I get the chance to meet so many different people and build a stronger network.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nikkimajor.com/
- Instagram: @nikkimajor_
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NikkiMajorDance/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/nicollelopez-social-media-marketing
- Twitter: nicollelopez_
Image Credits
Danielle Margherite and Terrance Forte