If a Representative knows and believes in what thier school offers they will be able to guide students who might not have direction when it comes to their education. Helping the student visualize their main career goal and knowing the atmosphere they want to be in when they graduate will motivate the student to stay in school and on course to achieve that goal. It's all about believing that education can change their life and helping them lay the foundation to achieve a career.
I think it is important to be upfront and honest about everything. If a student asks a question and you do not know the answer, it is best to say that you aren't sure and will find an answer instead of providing an answer of which you aren't sure. It is also important to listen and keep in mind the prospective student's needs. Remember, this is not about satisfying OUR agenda but rather providing information so that a student can see how/if our school is the best choice for them.
I thinkt that ethics are the most important practice. This will just naturally keep your head and heart in the right space in terms of your school.
That is my number one rule. I truly care about my prospective students. I try to treat them and talk to them as honestly as I would my brother or sister. My school might not be the best fit for everyone and if I feel that I will say it.
Save everything. I save my phone scripts, interview packets and everything in between. These are good resources to go back through and see if you're missing something or just to get back in touch with people you met with but did not enroll at the time.
A best practice is always continuing to learn and train throughout your time as an admissions rep. Many times as we gain tenure as a rep we preceive to know everything. Shadowing other representatives, meeting with faculity to discuss programs, attending all trainings will help with this process.
I think a few best practices would be being knowledgeable about your school. In every aspect of the business, you should know the basics of each department and what they do. It would also be good to get extremely familiar with your school catalog. Maybe do differant training meetings and involve directors from each department. This way specific questions can be asked to that director.
I think good practices is to care about the prospective student, see the school thru their "eyes", be able to answer questions that they have or at least know where to look for the answers, know how to guide them thru the process of admissions and school.
