The importance of listening!
I have found that even more important than asking questions is actually listening to the students response and their stories. The better you listen, the more you can read in between the lines about what the prospective student really wants.
Jermaine,
Open ended questions keep the conversation alive. Ask questions that get you the information you need but bring other questions to the table.
Patty Aronoff
I agree get the ball rolling with an openended question an just listen an you can learn alot.
joanna,
Active listening and leading questions are tools used in order to establish rapport. Used effectively, admissions representatives can effectively communicate with the student.
I think that is the most important for me to listen the student so I could find out where I could help them and guide them to the correct directions path they need to move on forward… most the time I am able to get many answer from them when are doing the talking but the same time I could have them answer my question to
Norma,
Active listening can bring your the information that you need and understand your prospective student.
I agree, sometimes the student is just shopping around and somtimes the fear factor has alot to do with the true commitment. We have to listen and see what their real accademic and professional goals are and see if our institution is indeed a right fit. The only way to accomplish this is to make sure every need is met, if not suggest an academic plan. Listening is the key.
Brandie,
It is important that they share true responses, not just what they think someone else wants to hear.
Listening can often make you aware of some obstacles they may face while in school. This is important so you can paint an accurate picture of how challenging a program may be for the student. I also find that it is a good idea to give the student some time to respond, even if there is some silence. Some students just need some time to think about the best answer and that answer could be lost if you jump to the next question too soon. I find that being patient with the question answer process is helpful.
Fred,
Listening skills are very important in communication. If we don't listen, we cannot fully communicate.
This is true. You need to know what the student wants, but most important what they have to deal with and need in order to reach their goals. We must make sure that the final goal is attainable and realistic in order for us not to set up our students for failure.
Listening techniques are vital in any sales process, but especially in admissions. Our prospects come to us with life-changing needs and it is important to understand their wants and desires, as well as what the obstacles have been to these goals thus far. Only then can we show them how the proper education can help them meet those goals.
William,
Active communication is very important! It takes skill.
If you listen to the student and ask good questions, they will convience them selves that an education with ITT is best for them.
Susan,
Nonverbals can tell a story all their own.
Dale,
Effective listening is key to undertanding.
Yes listening is key, you want the student to talk the more infromation you no about him the better
I agree,one of the most important tools I have as a Rep is to use my actice listening skills. I also pick up on the tiniest body language ques.
Jaleelay,
And...we need to make sure they understand the answer.
Carol,
Listening is important on both sides, the student and the rep.
