Today we’re going to talk about first impressions and some things you want to make sure you do during the first tutor session. Today we’ll talk about online tutoring, next week we’ll talk about off line tutoring.
After you sell a tutor session or package, you need to make sure to do the following.
1. Learn about your new client.
The best way I’ve found to do this is with a form. Google forms makes it easy to create a form. Within the form you should include their contact information, days and times they would like to be tutored, what they expect to get out of the tutor sessions. Ask them for any information that will help you assess them and begin to figure out what you need to work with them on.
2. Send them information on how to access your platform. Email or send them to a video or webpage that explains to them in detail how to set up so you can tutor them. Every platform is different and setting things up is a bit different. I have found the easiest way to do this is to explain to someone that you’re sitting with exactly how to set things up and take notes while you do it. Compile these notes into a check list and then take it to someone different and watch them set things up. They should be able to hear you, see what you want them to see on the screen and you should be able to hear them and watch them (their screen) or both. If you’re tutoring a child in elementary school you’ll want to explain to them they need to be with the child to help them start the first session (at least).
3. Schedule a time. Use the information they gave you from the contact form and give them some time options. I normally like to send them three or four choices for the first session. During the first tutor session you’ll set up the ‘regular’ days and times for tutoring the.
4. Practice online tutoring with someone. Do this with a friend or family member. Do this with someone you haven’t seen in a while. Make sure they have the tools, send them your instructions and then start an online session with them. Find out any problems they might have and correct them before you have a real student.
During the First Session
1. Work out the kinks. Make sure the student can hear you and you can hear them. Explain to them how to ask / answer questions. Also how you’ll send them work to do and if you need to see them do the work (like Math).
2. Do an initial assessment. Finding out where they are will help you implement a plan that will work in helping them. It will also make you look good.
3. Ask if they have any friends. Probably 3/4’s of my new clients came from referrals from someone else. The students you have now is the best form of advertising. Offering them an incentive to bring you new clients will help them remember you when someone they know needs help in the subject you’re tutoring. Test your incentives, they can be different for each student.
Next time we’ll talk about off line tutoring. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to send us a note.