Its always easier to communicate with a student that you already have somewhat an established relationship. You know what to say and what not to say that might hinder their thoughts.
But with a student that you have never meet, it would be more a little more difficult because you do not know what might turn them off.
Like a the humor for example, A first time student with whom there is no relationship involved could be turned away by this.
With a new student that i have not spoken with and leaving a message, I would want to be straight foward with the information and but not give to much information. Leaving them with questions in they would need to call back for to be answered.
Great point Sirena. You must build that relationship with the student and it sounds like you do that by letting them know you care.
With a current student the rapport is some what if not already built they already know you hold value resources. With a student you haven't built anything with you can inform then if they have questions or concerns to contact you. You can also tell them its important that they get all their uncertainties answered before they enroll with any school. Let them see that you care and its not just to sale them but to help them as well.
And what a great way to know that you've established rapport with that student!
You just have to make sure that they like meeting with you as a preference. There will be times when they will have to meet with other associates, but by having them say" I'd like to meet with you", is a great way to know that they trust and value your judgement and opinion.
Demonstrating that you will be a valuable resource to the student is awesome, Jeremy. I bet that by doing this you have developed sting and lasting relationships with your students. I'd love for you to share with us how you do this for your students.
You let them know that you are there to help them with any and all questions/concerns that they may have. Make them feel as if it is in their best interest to get back to you to find out the best, most up to date, and accurate information about the school.
Exploration is a good thing for both you and the prospective student. Voice mail messages can be tough even with those you have a relationship with but carry an additional challenge if no relationship is established.
So perhaps leaving a lot of information demonstrates to the prospective student that you are willing to help them and therefore...begins to build trust. How else might you try to establish a relationship in a voicemail message?
I would definitley like to explore more with a student that I have not met. Leaving a detailed voice message is so important to give you a better chance of them calling you back.
It’s definitely easier to use these techniques with established relationships than with students I haven’t met because it’s harder to determine what objections I’ll need to overcome with new students
