How do you ensure families prioritize your music lessons in their busy schedules?
The after-school enrichment industry is vibrant. Sports, dance, arts, academics, clubs… MATHNASIUMS (People are making math FUN!?) There are so many activities – why should families prioritize your voice studio in their busy schedules?
Before you get caught up in a scarcity mindset or worrying about your “competition,” take a moment to look at the advantages the professional private teacher has over large group activities. Furthermore, simple strategies like streamlining/modernizing your business practices and acknowledging your students and families will go a long way in setting your services apart from others.
Here are some simple tips:
1. a) Make Your Students Feel Special
We have the “one on one” relationship – Sometimes, we are the only one-on-one relationship a child has each week. Enjoy it and celebrate it. Give students your complete attention. Discover what makes them smile. Find those connections! Help them to find great music that they connect with! Make sure they leave every lesson with that smile.
1. b) Make Parents Feel Appreciated
They are your clients and just as important as your students. Don’t treat them poorly. They will have questions and concerns, so be mindful and gracious in your communication. Most importantly, ensure they feel appreciated and welcome in your teaching studio.
2. a) Be Super Organized
Have your teaching year of rehearsals/recitals/events booked now or as far ahead as possible. Letting families know well in advance (and reminding them often) will help them to plan for your studio’s events. Organized families will love you for this, and it will prevent last-minute dropouts!
2. b) Make it Easy for People to Do Business With You
Update your website. Streamline and update policies. Use a professional online scheduler (We recommend Mymusicstaff) and accept credit card payments. Autopayments are helpful for busy families, and most activities are conveniently auto-pay.
3. Give All Students the Opportunities to Shine
Friendly, non-competitive recitals or themed recitals, workshops, and coffee house-type performances where all students can show their stuff. In-lesson recitals are great too! Try small ensembles or harmony work with other singers. (Great for building community within your teaching studio.)
4. Make Your Recitals AWESOME
Boring recitals are a drag! Play up-tempo music when people arrive. Have a draw for a prize. Have a guest performer. Families will be happy to choose an inspiring music recital over a soccer/hockey practice any day. Check out our podcast edpisode #5 about Hosting Great Student Recitals.
5. Acknowledge Their Accomplishments
Perhaps your studio can celebrate a “student of the month.” Many teachers are embracing social media with professional Facebook and Instagram pages where students can be recognized (With parents’ permission, of course!) Get to know the parents and tell them about their child’s accomplishments. Parents appreciate the positive feedback and will support their child’s future efforts (and your teaching studio).
