Talk about how inconsistency affects your student not you...

So here is the scenario. Student rings up to cancel their first appointment so you say no problem, lets just start next week. Student calls the next week and asks if they can do a different day. You agree and they turn up for their first lesson. Following week they again cancel. You are getting frustrated so you decide to tell the student that they need to be more consistent because teaching is your main job and when they cancel lessons you lose money or miss out on booking other students who may be waiting to enrol in their time.


What's wrong with above?


When we talk about what we are losing we are attempting to make the student feel guilty which is rarely a good strategy. You should always talk about their loss for two very good reasons. 


1. It makes sense to them


When you explain that their inability to make a regular lesson means they will fail to progress they will almost always realise you are right. If on the other hand you say it affects your income or inconveniences you in some way they may fall into line out of guilt or even fear of upsetting you but they are more likely to just stop coming. It certainly won't help your relationship with your student.


2. It shows you care


Your higher purpose should always be to ensure your students are consistent because consistency means progress. When students can't commit to your program it usually means they are unlikely to be practicing so you have a moral obligation to explain your concerns.  Money is important to you sure but you should only be accepting money from students who you believe will succeed. You have a right to be paid if you are a good teacher who gets results but when you tell your students that their inconsistency is affecting your income you are sending them the wrong message. 

1. 1. G4 GUITAR Teacher Network
   2. www.g4guitarmethod.com.au

      
      

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