Getting back on track with requirement-based studio
Found in: Claiming Territory
Elsie W., Idaho
Anyone have proven tips that work to get back on track when requirement-based has lapsed a bit?
Laurie Richards, Nebraska
I have a few suggestions. With holidays and year-end coming up, you might make a plan and institute it at the beginning of 2017 as a fresh start.
Come up with a list of what you absolutely will require from your students and coaches (write it down)…you might consider starting with must a few of the most important ones, such as practice/playlist requirements. Think through how exactly you will address your student if they do not follow through, and practice saying it. You have to commit to these requirements yourself before asking your students to!
One option is to spend a portion of a class time at the beginning of the year discussing your requirements. A few ideas for framing the conversation before stating the requirements:
“We’ve been doing an okay job with (playlists/practicing/whatever), but now we’re at a point where I need your absolute commitment on some things.”
“This year I have committed to providing only the very best experience for my students. Toward that end, there are requirements that all of my students must meet in order to continue with me. I promise that I am going to be right on top of making sure these happen. I also promise you will get the absolute best results from your lessons by meeting these requirements.”
Another option is to simply restate your requirements and start having discussions every time they are not met. Not too many discussions with the same family – let them go (with grace) if it’s just not happening.
One thing you will need to have in your mindset is a non-attachment to the outcome of these conversations. You need to be willing to lose a few students. That can be challenging, but in the long run if you continue down the requirement-based path, you will enjoy low attrition, committed students, and a great reputation.
Lastly to help get in a good mindset, I recommend reviewing some of Neil’s audio training files (in your Library – Educator Support):
* Building a Requirement-based Studio
* The Dynamic of Claiming Territory
* The Relationship Conversation
Also the Foundation Conversation (in Curriculum Support) is always good to review.