Kathryn,
Humor is a great way to build rapport and communicate! Thank you for sharing.
Dr. Jean Norris
with a student I've already met, I can use humor, or "tag, you're it" type comment to create a light moment and tell them I'm really sorry I missed their call, and instr. on when/how to get back w/ me.
Communicating that you are an available resource to your students is a good practice, whether you have met them or not. You could even go a step further and let them know your hours the next day too just in case they can't get to you today. Do you find a difference between leaving this type of message for the students you know over the students you have yet to meet?
Dr. Jean Norris
With my students that I have already met, I always remind them that I am here if they ever need to ask any questions, whether in person or over the phone. I try and do that with students I haven't met as well. When I leave a new message for someone that is interested, I always make it known on the voice message that I am in the office and available to answer any questions that he/she may have and I encourage them to contact me ASAP.
When a student you have never met is based on the conversation and communication your having with that person. Which bring a connection of already knowing the person wants and needs based on what they have already explained too. So imputing a little spice and sweetness to the messages can leave a none identifier wanting to call you back.
It does take some time to plan out an effective call but it could benefit you, your school and the student in the long run. Don't forget about campus events that may spark an interest. I'm also curious, if you are up to call #6 and the prospective student hasn't called us back, what might they be saying to you?
First impression is key. Creating a positive, upbeat, informative message that will grab their attention would be my goal after taking this course. I look forward to putting some together. The biggest challenge is using something different for each call to the same person if you are up to call # 4-5-6 etc.
Diane, humor can be a powerful tool when used appropriately. I wonder, what has the response been when you have used humor in the past?
Dr. Jean Norris
I have learned that we can use humor. I am quite a humorous person and have felt that I needed to stifle that in order to come across as professional. It's nice to know that I can be more myself with my interactions.
Chris, thanks for this feedback. It sounds like you are working to ensure a friendly environment for your students. This can certainly help build rapport and trust with them.
Dr. Jean Norris
I agree. Having rapport makes it easier to be creative and know how to communicate with each prospect. With prospects that you have not met i think it helps to be yourself, be friendly, and inviting. Also building value in the programs. Easier said then done, but the tools in this last module will certainly help. WIIFM is a great perspective to take.
Your enthusiasm for your school and what it can offer a student is a great place to start, Jessica. Another opportunity you have with a new inquiry, is the sincere desire to get to know that person and what it is they hope to achieve and where they're at right now. Asking open ended questions about their life is a great place to start building that relationship.
With an established relationship you can refer to specific items of discussion you have already had with that prospect. With a new lead, you have to rely on your own enthusiasm about the program and what it can offer that student who is just begining their search at your school. As well as the excitment at taking the 1st step in looking for a new school and career.
Thanks for sharing, Jason. These sound like great ways to continue to demonstrate that your students are very much a part of your school's community while they are in school and even after graduation. Keep up the good work.
We have an open door policy, even after the student graduates we tell them if they ever feel that they need to come in and sit in on a class that they are always more than welcome.
Or if they have any questions or problems they might run across in there new career we are here to help.
That's an awesome founding principle, especially when you have the opportunity to help students change their lives! What are some of the ways that you demonstrate your principle of caring in your student interactions?
Our school was founded on this principle of caring. We are small and I think that comes across through our interaction with the students.
Great observation, Jason. Showing that your school cares and that the student won't "get lost" can be very powerful, indeed. I'm curious, how do you communicate this to your students?
Great observations, Jason. While humor can be a great tool to use there are times that it might work against you. It sounds like you approach a student with whom you've had no contact very thoughtfully and professionally. What might you like to do to tweak your approach?
I think showing that the school care about each and every student, give a feeling of sercurity to those looking for a school.
Nobody wants to lost in a bunch.
