Make a Good “First Impression” on the Phone

Date Posted: 11/22/2010 | Category: Marketing

Speaking to parents or students for the first time and trying to sell your self over the telephone can be difficult, especially for new music teachers. Here are a few suggestions to help you make a good first impression.

Conduct yourself in a professional manner. Answer the phone courteously and give your name. A simple “hello” may leave the caller confused and think they’ve called the wrong number. Think about it from a parent’s perspective. They are calling a business and seeking the best possible music lesson experience. If you can’t conduct yourself in a professional manner and convey enthusiasm for what you do, chances are they will move on to the next music teacher on their list.

Be prepared to answer frequently asked questions. People shopping for music lessons will almost always want to know:

• Your qualifications (music education and other credentials)
• Your pricing structure for 30, 45 or 60-minute lessons
• Where lessons are conducted (in your studio or the student’s home)
• Your availability
• The best place to buy a new used instrument

Give the caller your full attention. Do not answer the phone if you are in a noisy environment — at the mall, a restaurant, driving. You need to give the caller your full attention. If you are distracted by noise or the presence of other people, you’ll not be able to focus. This could make the new caller feel unimportant.

Be Confident. Setting new lesson appointments by phone can be one of the most challenging tasks for music teachers. Stay calm and be confident. Even if you are new to to business, conduct yourself as if you’ve been doing it for years:  you know what you’re doing, you know how to teach. Being able to instill a sense of confidence and credibility over the phone to new callers can make a huge difference in student enrollment and monthly income.