Importance of a Free Introductory Session
Found in: Free Introductory Session
Paul C. AUHow hard should I push for someone to come to an FIS? Yesterday I was sending out reminders about my next FIS to people who have been unable to make it to one yet. I gave a brief outline of how different SM is to a traditional method after she first inquired so she was aware that this is different to anything else on the market. This is about the third time I have informedher about the next FIS. This lady would like lessons for her daughter. Finally she replied…”Hi Paul, I would rather enroll without attending an information session, just let me know what times are available for her to start lessons. Thanks!’How hard should I push? My initial ideas for a response include (1) Reminding her that SM is so different from any other method that it is best “tasted” in an FIS to be sure it is what she wants to do. (2) Let her know that the financial incentive is only available at an FIS. (3) I’m thinking about saying that the only time I enroll people is after they have been to an FIS – is that fair? Sharon B. AUI have given very few FISs because of my family situation. I try to gauge where the ‘phoner’ is coming from, and often they have more or less made up their mind to have lessons before they’ve phoned, or they decide during the first phone conversation. All other info I give at foundation session. Cheryl G. PennsylvaniaI know this sounds strict, but I would never sign up a student without interviewing them first. I want them to meet me, and I want to meet the parents and the student. This is only the beginning of having you do things her way. I’m sure if she can make time for weekly lessons, she can make time for an FIS. Ginny W. AUGiven that you already have this woman’s willingness to sign up, an FIS in this instance is obviously not to recruit this person, as it would be in many cases. However you might find it necessary to use a chunk of the first lesson as a set up opportunity, to make any requirements, anything about SM that she and her daughter may not be clear about, crystal clear, rather than launching into learning songs before she understands what’s required (e.g parent attending and being coach). Also if you have any studio policy documents or student agreements to sign, this may be best done in the first lesson. If you are wiling to give her a first lesson free as for an FIS I guess that’s up to you, but my question is why would you if she’s indicated she’s ready and willing to pay for a series of lessons, and you’ve already explained the gist of the program and what distinguishes it, to her? Terrie P.Sign her up, and make her first lesson (a private one) an FIS (I guess it would just be an IS). As long as she has the idea that this is not a traditional reading based method–maybe have her check out the website too. She should be O.K. Victoria S. CaliforniaOne time I had a similar experience. I had the two siblings and their mom come for their first lesson and I let them know that their first lesson would be a bit longer than usual. I gave them the FIS (modified) before the lesson and it has worked out great so far. I think the most important thing is to get them into your studio. You can educate them in small doses as you go. If they quit, then at least you were paid for your time. If not, you have students who are being educated constantly in small doses. I hope this helps. |