SINCE WE SHOULD HAVE SOME BASE LINE KNOWLEDGE ABOUT OUR COMPETETORS AND WHAT THEY OFFER. I WOULD ASK IF THEY HAVE VISITED THE OTHERS CAMPUS AND START OUT FOCUSING ON THE OVERALL PHYSICAL STRUCTURE OF MY CAMPUS AND THE AVAILABLE LABS AND THEIR CONTENT.I WOULD FARTHER USE SOME OF THE REASONS EMPLOYERS(ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS) HAVE GIVEN ME FOR WHY THEY PERFER HIRING GRADS FROM MY INSTUTION.
We refer to the pass rates of the State Boards. These are closely monitored, and are a good indicator of how successful a program is. It is also good to have the student look at the different length of the schools, to get an idea of how intense a program may be. Shorter programs will get a student through the program more quickly, but may not allow the student to work part-time.
When I am asked this question,I offer no opinion. I simply state known facts and allow the student to process those facts in the light of their own situation.
We should answer that we cannot speak for another school. This is a chance for the prospect to gather their information and make the right decision for them.
I agree with this. If I were asked about another institution, I would let them know that I am not familiar with other schools and have them do the research on their own because every one has different opinions.
I would stay focussed on what I know...our Concorde program. Students who research multiple educational institutions will have the information they need to make an informed choice.
We encourage them when they ask to check out other campuses so they can compare.
Beside not being very nice talking negative about another school is un ethical. I would say that's a very nice school, but emphasize all the great things about Concorde
I would respond "the quality of our instructors". The caliber of teaching is reflected by our instructors, we have good instructors we have a good program, but if we have great instructors, that is what makes our program the best.
I would respond to a student by stating that, I am only familiar with information about Concorde.
Responses should be honest and relative to what sets you apart from other institutions. This should be done by identifying facts about your institution, rather than negative comments about a competitor. Comments regarding new equipment, a certain clinical site, updates in curriculum,new textbooks, technology in the classroom, exam pass rates (if applicable), support services available, etc. can be used. School tours that allow prospective students to see "normal" school activities is also helpful.
The best way is to put emphasis on your schools attributes and mention nothing about the competition. Only focus on your school and how grea tyour school is.
I would share the approved statistics and talking points describing our institution and inform the individual to utilize this information when making their comparisons to other institutions.
I respond by telling the student I am only familiar with the specific programs at Concorde.
Deanna - I agree with the approach to put it back on the potential student to do the research. It also gives admissions a good reason to call the student for follow up to see what they have learned, questions they may have based on what they heard from a competitor, etc.
Jennifer, I completely agere with your comments. The reassurance about their choice needs to occur throughout the program.
As a graduate and an employee, you are in a great position to have credibilty when you talk to students and prospective students, Janet.
Alexander - I agree. Following this one guideline pretty much sums up how to ensure integrity in all matters.
Derek - from my research, Colorado is one of the strictest states regarding restrictions regarding this area due to the restriction on recruiting students currently enrolled at another school. A few states restrict certain discussions about other schools but the limit on recruiting students currently enrolled elsewhere is quite strict by comparison.
Its important to refocus the student on the success and outcomes of Concorde. Let the student know that we don't know about other instituitions, but would be happy to disclose all of the benefits and numbers of Concorde. Put it back on the student to do some research on other institutions.
