I think during anytime on the phone or when you start an interview with a future student, your personality really needs to show through. Connecting with a student will really help you understand and know what will be the best moves for them.
I dislike the idea of "selling" a product. I don't try to sell myself to the students at all. I have a passion for helping people reach their educational goals, if you are honest and honestly want to help students they will have enough faith in you and your school. A lot of times people "sell" students and they just end up cancelling and holding a grudge against the entire school because one person "sold" themselves and just pushed the student through registration.
This is kind of a hit and miss. First impressions definitely have an impact of whether a student connects with you. I feel they have to feel comfortable with you as well and then they will feel more comfortable in the program you are selling them.
I agree. The person you are differentiates your organization from a competitor.
