I remember when a friend told me about Netflix and that I should check it out. At the time I thought it was a good idea, however that was it. He wasn’t a big movie renter so it didn’t make sense to me, however they would soon provide a service that would change everything.

When Netflix first came out in 1998, it was all about sending customers DVDs through the mail. You can select from a wide variety of movies and choose the order in which you want to receive them. You can keep the DVD for as long as you like, however the next one won’t show up in your mailbox until you receive the previous one. This was quite innovative and people quickly gravitated towards membership.

Over time I imagine members got used to the process and started wanting more with a shorter turnaround time.

What if Netflix could give people a choice by offering instant play options? This would give more options and allow members different platforms to watch movies and TV shows. They could then watch from their computers, smartphones, iPads, or televisions. The choice would be up to the members as to when and where they would watch.

Remember when the only way to watch movies was at the theater?

there was not “I’ll wait for it to come out on cable”, much less DVD or instant playback. If you missed it while it was in the theater, well… you missed it.

Are you limiting your events to in-person performances only?

What if your ideal client is not in your local area? Have you resigned yourself to working only with those who can come to you?

If so, Big mistake!

Blockbuster didn’t think Netflix was a threat and continued to do business the old-fashioned way. By the time they finally realized how technology had changed the way consumers preferred to receive DVDs, it was too late. Netflix had already become known for delivering movies to mailboxes near and far. In fact, they were well on their way to delivering movies and TV shows over the Internet.

The same thing happens when you restrict your presentation to live face-to-face events.

Where is your nearest Blockbuster?

Now you’re getting it.

Blockbusters are shutting down left and right, while Netflix goes full steam ahead.

Who would you rather be? Netflix or Blockbuster?

Follow the Netflix model. Offer a variety of options for your customers to get information. Host teleclasses and expand your reach. Living in a big city doesn’t necessarily mean having a full house for your live in-person events. It simply means that you have a better selection of hotels.

What is your biggest challenge when presenting or thinking about presenting teleclasses?