The power of the relationship conversation
Found in: Student Management
Ruth P., North Carolina
Something I’m continually learning as a teacher is to not shy away from having the relationship conversation. When a student walks in and says, “I am really in a valley”, my goal is to not freak out and worry that she is going to immediately quit taking lessons, but realize that she needs someone to have a conversation with her about her struggles. Show compassion and understanding and then give some specific strategies to help her get out of the valley.
Today in one of my shared lessons, I discovered that one woman was somewhat discouraged because she’s playing on a very crummy keyboard. We talked about her purchasing a piano and she left planning to look into that. Another student said she wasn’t practicing, so we talked about the importance of setting a specific time and getting her life coach to encourage her to get to the piano at that time. Hopefully they left empowered to make changes that will help them enjoy their musical journey more.
Bonnie T., Oklahoma
This is a time of year for valleys, I think! Everyone including coaches is tired. I do have the relationship conversation often – and remind myself of it as well.
