BEST PRACTICES
What are some good practices to have as a Representative to be successful in this business?
Talking to the faculty is critical to understanding what the students are studying, what seems to be most difficult for students and what contacts he/she knows that may serve as resources for you and the school.
It is important enough to say again and again... one of the most critical success factors for an agent is questioning skills. How well do you know what the potential student wants to gain from additional education? What task motives and personal motives do they have?
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This will definitely not work for the majority...BUT it works for me & my students & their families. We have bbq's at our home at least 6 times/yr. Each family brings a side-dish. I supply the meat. Students meet other students (possible roommates). Parents meet other parents, etc. Also, as the bbq groups get progressively larger, topics that you may have thought were not important, are brought up & discussed openly. This has helped start rates, and graduation percentages. This is also one of the best ways to get referrals, not just from students - but also families. Just have them invite their friends to the bbq's.
Some best practices that have helped me have been being a role model and understanding and knowing each program that you offer.
I believe if you are passionate about your job then that reflects to the student. You have to believe in your organization and it's ability to not only give your students an education but a chance to change their lives for the better.
I have met people (student's and families) all over the world from working in an educational setting. They have been very respectful and just great people. They know what they want and go after it. Especially the student's from Europe.
You should be concerned with each individual. It is a giant step for most to attempt college life. The adjustments they go through with family, job and school. The adult population is growing as far as attending school. We need the knowledge to assist them.
Know the rules and regulations that govern their school. All knowledge of the catalog, programs, financial aid, student services, career placement all have effects of the ability of the agent.
ALWAYS REMEMBER TO DO WHAT IS BEST FOR YOUR STUDENT. WITH ALL THE CHANGES PEOPLE HAVE A TENDENCY TO FORGET THAT.
So true! I really enjoy meeting with the kids and their parents!
I agree with this completely. If you answer a question incorrectly, it could really come back to bite you. I would rather get the correct answer and tell them to hold on while I get it or call them back. This also shows the prospective student that you actually care about giving them accurate information. Plus if you give false information they are more likely to drop, because eventually they will find out the truth anyway.
Aaron,
That is perfect advice. If you keep the student's best interest in mind you will be successful.
Best Practices - Every Student deserves your best foot forward everyday. Follow compliance,follow the rules,pay attention to all questions and only give accurate answers.
If you can focus on the students needs/values and keep them in mind throughout the entire process, I feel you will find success more than failure.
Agreed! I try to treat people the same way I'd want to be treated if I were on the "other" side of the desk.
I agree with this. Just be honest it is always the best policy in any setting. In nursing, integrity is the utmost quality in students and they want that also in a nursing rep.
I think for Nursing our rep. needs to be very informed about the what nursing students are looking for in a program. Also what about our program is different from the other tri-state programs is something potential students will ask. Know your program!
A good practice is to help your student visualize where they will start their career after all of their hard work is complete! This tends to motivate them and gives them a concrete plan in life.
I think being organized, knowing your product, and being personable on the phone are the 3 keys to being succesful
