The FORD Method
Chat GPT is killing me with these goofy ass people it generates.
A Simple Way to Build Better Connections
Alright coaches, let’s talk about this week’s tip—and it’s all about connecting with the people in your class on a deeper level. Whether you're naturally chatty or struggle with small talk, this tool can seriously level up your ability to build meaningful relationships.
It's called the FORD Method, and I first heard about it on an old NPR podcast. Since then, a few companies have taken it and run with it—but at its core, it's a simple, powerful communication strategy designed to help people connect, especially when that doesn’t come naturally.
So, what does FORD stand for?
F – Family
O – Occupation
R – Recreation
D – Dreams
Let’s break it down:
Family
Start by asking about their family. It’s an easy and usually safe entry point into real conversation:
"Do you have any kids?"
"Where’s your family from?"
"Any siblings?"
You’ll often find shared experiences, values, or even funny stories that build trust and familiarity.
Occupation
What do they do for work?
Not just the title—but what lights them up (or doesn’t).
"What’s your day-to-day like?"
"How did you get into that field?"
Understanding someone’s job gives insight into their routines, challenges, and motivations outside the gym.
Recreation
What do they do for fun—inside or outside the gym?
"What’s your ideal weekend?"
"Do you have any hobbies outside of CrossFit?"
This helps you see who they are beyond the barbell—and might even inspire you to share more of your own life.
Dreams
This one goes a little deeper.
"What’s something you’ve always wanted to do?"
"Is there a personal goal you’re chasing right now?"
You don’t need to jump straight into this one. But once you’ve built a little rapport, asking about someone’s dreams is a powerful way to show that you see them—and that you’re someone who believes in their potential.
Most people don’t get asked this kind of question often. And even fewer have someone genuinely listen to their answer.
Why It Matters for Coaches
The FORD Method is especially useful in classes where the energy feels flat or where you're coaching a newer group and don't yet have strong rapport.
It’s also a game-changer if you’re someone who isn’t naturally great at making conversation—you now have a simple framework to fall back on.
Bottom line:
The better you connect with your members, the better you can coach them.
Try the FORD Method this week. Ask a question or two in each category, and watch how fast those surface-level interactions turn into real relationships.
Good luck out there—and as always, stay virtuous.
– Pat
