The Phone is a very important tool for your interviews.
Are there any suggestions or tools that you may use that could help a new person get that interview, I have listened in on some really good techniques thus far I just want to see if anyone else finds something that helps them?
Naji,
I know many admissions staff that have a mirror at their desk to remind them of that impression they are giving while on the phone.
Patty Aronoff
The Phone is like the first impression,it gives you an idea who are you talking to, it facilitates the way for the interviewee and motivates the interviewee to come to your facility.
Anissa,
Agreed!You are assisting them in finding the right match!
I have successful interviews when I focus on the needs of prospective students as well as their motivations for pursuing their chosen degree program.
Monica,
It is developing a relationship built upon honesty and trust.
I find that building value in the prospects prog. of choice helps (ie. places to work, prog. length etc.) I also build a good rapport with them during the initial call by addressing concerns and motivate them to take the next step and come in to the campus.
Brittany,
That is a testament to you that they feel very comfortable speaking with you.
Jennifer,
Good advice showing that they are important to you.
When calling to schedule an interview, begin with the belief that they will / want to come in. Present when you are available with one or two possible appointment times as you know your schedule. It is far better to say, "I can meet with you at 3:00" then "I'm sorry, I don't have the time you requested available."
I toally agree, these are times when some of my applicants will contact me 3-4times a day! I stay very professionally and upbeat with my conversations. Sometime, to hear that smile in your voice or to hear a good laugh makes the student or prospect feel comfortable. The first contact with a prospect is important because that is how you begin that relationship with the individual. Also I am mindful that when a prospect requests infomation from your school, you should follow up with a call.
Yes Ms. Aronoff is correct. It is very important to make a great impresion over the phone. The trick is for you to smile on the phone. They need to hear that you are in a great mood and a pleasant person.
Racheal,
Review the forum for tips from other schools. Primarily, effective listening and good conversational skills to keep the conversation moving.
Dean,
Many people are more comfortable with the first interview on the phone. Having a great phone technique will get them to come in for a face-to-face interview.
I feel that the more information I gather about them over the phone the better it is to assist the prospective student to make sure that you have a proper fit in program that they are looking for. It gives you a reason to invite them in to see your facility if it's what they're looking for in a school or program.
