Wednesday 7th January Briefing

Introduction and Setup
The briefing begins with audio adjustments and casual conversation as the speaker greets the audience and checks on class attendance and participation across regions. The session’s focus quickly turns to sharing business and marketing strategies for fitness professionals.

Current Business Climate Discussion
The instructor encourages members to share how their class numbers look after the holiday season. She notes that attendance can fluctuate in early January due to weather, school schedules, and routine changes, and reassures instructors that this is a normal part of business.

Main Topic: Understanding and Using ManyChat

• ManyChat is introduced as an automation tool for Facebook and Instagram that replies to specific comments with pre-programmed messages or links.

• Example: A post says “Comment ‘REFORMX’ for the link,” and when users comment, ManyChat automatically sends them a link to sign up or get more info.

• The tool can only be used with business accounts, not personal profiles or groups.

• It helps increase engagement by creating multiple comment interactions, which improves post visibility.

How to Implement ManyChat

• Set a keyword trigger (e.g., “yes,” “class,” “me”) for posts.

• Each time the keyword is commented, ManyChat automatically responds with a message or link.

• Works on both Facebook and Instagram, and can even message non-followers who comment.

• Helps with lead generation — ideal for growing mailing lists, distributing newsletters, or promoting events.

Cost and Efficiency Tips

• The cost varies monthly based on usage; roughly £20–£60 per month depending on message volume.

• Try using comment-trigger methods manually first to gauge engagement before paying for automation.

• Short, simple keywords trigger better responses.

Integration and Setup Guidance

• ManyChat isn’t linked with Canva; it operates independently and directly within Meta platforms.

• Users must connect their business Facebook or Instagram accounts in the app or desktop version.

• Automations are easy to duplicate and customize for various posts.

• Flow setup includes:

  1. Select post

  2. Add trigger keyword

  3. Write automatic message

  4. Add website or signup link

  5. Launch automation

Practical Uses for Fitness Professionals

• Grow newsletter sign-ups with prompts like “Comment CORO for choreography ideas.”

• Share class booking links automatically via comment triggers.

• Move followers from Facebook to YouTube by sharing “Comment YES” links to videos.

• Respond instantly to class inquiries without needing to monitor comments manually.

Engagement and Algorithm Benefits

• Each comment and automated reply doubles engagement, boosting Facebook post visibility.

• Encourages real-time interaction and stronger community presence.

• Helps maintain conversation momentum through messenger follow-ups.

Homework and Action Plan

• Try using manual comment triggers first (“Comment YES if you want details”).

• Download the free version of ManyChat and set up one basic automation.

• Link it to a newsletter, free class, or lead magnet on your website.

• Test engagement and report results for future improvement.

Closing Remarks
The instructor emphasizes the importance of blending automation with personal engagement. She also encourages attendees to continue building their mailing lists and testing new social media strategies. Upcoming events include reformer masterclasses and a level 3 course offered via Zoom.