Welcome & Intro.
“Setting the Stage for Successful Tutoring Sessions.”
Starting your first tutoring session can be intimidating, especially if initiating conversations isn't your forte. Whether you're naturally outgoing or a bit shy, a well-prepared welcome and introduction can lay the foundation for a positive and productive tutoring relationship.
STEP ONE: Making Them Feel Comfortable
When you meet someone in person, the first instinct is to introduce yourself, sharing your name and where you're from. Sometimes, due to a shared city or area, you may divulge a bit more. However, in the online tutoring world, it's essential to remember that cameras are on, and our information's destination is uncertain. Keep details general, such as your country, tutoring experience duration, and why you enjoy helping others.
Ensure you ask the same questions in return: What’s your name? Where are you from? Perhaps, something like, what motivates you to learn or improve your English? Keep it general and straightforward.
As the relationship develops, choose to reveal more information at your discretion. However, avoid sharing specific details like your address or phone number. If curious about this caution, refer to the article, "General vs Personal".
STEP TWO: Figuring Out How You Can Help Them
The only way to do this is by letting them do the talking. Ask specific questions, listen to their answers, and determine if you're the right fit. Refer to the ”Welcome Checklist” in “Forms”.
These questions aim to help you understand if you can genuinely assist the person in the way they desire. Clearly communicate your specialization. Do you know what you specialize in? Determine this before taking in students. If you have exam experience and they wish to prepare for exams, inform them how you can help. If not, let them know the area in which you can help.
Being a skilled tutor isn't about the number of students you have but how effectively you teach those students. Be transparent and convey how you can truly help them.
STEP THREE: Encouraging Future Sessions
To open the way for future sessions, be transparent about your tutoring compatibility. If you're the right fit, provide a brief sample of what your tutoring session may look like.
Will it be a discussion period?
Will you decide the topic?
Will you allow the student to pick the topic?
Will you have a reading session?
A question-and-answer session?
Will you review the basics of English grammar?
Have it prepared and ready at the time of the class. Be ready to send the student a copy of what was covered during the class, along with your notes and feedback on their skills. Providing a preview of what will be covered in the next class helps them feel comfortable scheduling another session. If they enjoyed the sample, they are sure to return for more, making the process transparent and enjoyable for both tutor and student.
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