5 Essential Steps for Landing Your First PT Job

Forget the fluff, let's get straight to the tips because that's what you're here for.

1. Tailor your CV to the company culture and job role

• Don't send a generic CV. Research the facility thoroughly—is it a heavy strength-focused box, a high-end boutique yoga studio, or an online coaching company? Highlight your specific expertise and personality traits that align with their unique culture.
  

• Why it's important: As a former employer within the industry, someone who is a cultural fit will go right to the front of the queue. A Centre Manager will prioritize whether you mesh well with their existing team and member base before they dive into the technical details of your certification. Show you understand their niche.

2. Sharpen your sales pitch (elevator pitch)

• Practice a concise 30-second introduction. You must be able to explain: Who are you? Which clients do you specialize in? Why should the facility hire you? Practice this—you'll immediately showcase the thought you've put into the role. *if you're a freshly qualified PT then "which clients do you want to specialise in?". Although you need to be able to deliver to a variety of clients depending on the type of facility, I always liked a candidate who had a strong idea for their future!
  

• Why it's important: Your job as a PT is about selling yourself and your services. If you cannot confidently sell your value in an interview, the manager will (rightly) doubt your ability to sell sessions to members. Be confident and clear about the value you bring.

3. Carefully evaluate the compensation model

• We try to ensure the companies advertising roles on our website are as transparent as possible when it comes to this...but, if not, ask early if the employer offers a base salary (fastlønn) in the initial phase, if the role is 100% commission-based, or what percentage of your income you'll need to pay to them as "rent". For a first job, a model with a base salary provides fantastic stability and time to build a client base without undue pressure, but these opportunities are rarer than rocking horse sh*t.
  

• Why it's important: This is a career longevity issue. Starting on pure commission without experience is tough. However, as this is the most common set-up, the follow up question for this should be "do you as the employer demonstrate you invest in my long-term success?" If the answer is yes, then the commission structure or rent model can end up being a positive thing.

4. Showcase your digital presence

• Centre Managers will check LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook (maybe even Tik Tok). Ensure your profiles are professional, positive, and reflect your knowledge and ambitions. You don't need to be an influencer, but you must demonstrate an ability to build trust and create engagement - and importantly, be somewhat in-line with the companies policies for social media.
  

• Why it's important: Your online profile proves your ability to market. This is critical, as PTs are often responsible for generating a good portion of their own client leads. Some gyms also offer the chance to bring in non-members as PT clients (only), meaning any form of outreach can give you a real competitive edge.

5. Take initiative and request trial sessions

• This is something I can strongly assume not many people have done in Norway. Don't just submit your resume. Offer to hold a trial session, a free staff workshop, or cover a trial shift to physically demonstrate your work ethic and energy.
  

• Why it's important: This shows you are enthusiastic and proactive. It gives the employer a risk-free chance to see you interact with their environment—the ultimate measure of cultural fit. Usually an employer will get you to perform an audition anyway, so why not take the lead and show off the other personality traits that can make you a strong candidate for their role.

Mastering these five steps can instantly set you apart from the majority who mistake this career for a casual "side hustle." Remember, the industry's most successful coaches—online or in-person—build long-term careers on a foundation of professional preparation and deep, real-world experience, so approach this opportunity with the seriousness it demands.