Here's how you can handle conflicts of interest with your boss in a Functional Training career.

1 Identify Issues

When you suspect a conflict of interest, it's essential to identify the specifics of the situation. In functional training, this could mean recognizing when personal biases might affect your boss's decisions regarding program design, client allocation, or professional development opportunities. It's important to objectively assess the circumstances and determine whether they're impacting your career progress or the fairness within the workplace. Acknowledge your feelings but focus on the facts to ensure that any concerns you raise are grounded in reality and not just perceptions.

2 Open Dialogue

Once you've identified the issue, approach your boss for an open dialogue. Choose a private and neutral setting to discuss your concerns. Begin the conversation with respect and a clear intent to find a resolution that benefits both parties. In the context of functional training, this might involve discussing how a particular decision affects your ability to perform or grow professionally. Be prepared to listen as much as you speak, and approach the conversation with the goal of understanding your boss's perspective.

3 Seek Advice

If direct communication doesn't resolve the conflict, seek advice from a trusted colleague or mentor within the functional training field. They can provide an outside perspective on the situation and offer guidance on how to proceed. Ensure that you maintain confidentiality and professionalism when discussing the issue, as the fitness industry often relies on reputation and trust. The advice you receive can help you decide on further steps to take, which could include mediation or involving higher management.

5 Alternative Solutions

Be proactive in suggesting alternative solutions that could mitigate the conflict of interest. In a functional training career, this might mean proposing a different way to allocate clients or suggesting a third-party mediator for decisions that affect your progression. Offer constructive ideas that aim to improve transparency and fairness in decision-making processes. Your initiative can demonstrate your commitment to resolving the issue while maintaining a professional approach.

6 Maintain Professionalism

Regardless of the outcome, it's crucial to maintain professionalism throughout the process. Continue to perform your functional training duties to the best of your ability and treat all parties involved with respect. By doing so, you uphold your reputation and ensure that you remain in good standing within the fitness community. Remember, how you handle conflicts of interest can have a lasting impact on your career in functional training.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?