Business tips for piano teachers
Here is a summary of some excellent business tips that I have compiled during my time as a piano instructor.
1. Make it Convenient for People to do Business With You
Make all your policies and expectations simple to understand and follow. Try to be as flexible as possible. Be a good example, if you want to have students that show up and are prepared so should you be at all times.
2. Know the Going Rates in Your Area
Find out what other teachers are charging and what they are offering for their fee. It can also be a good idea to list out exactly what you offer, for example: classical repetoire, jazz improvisation, ear training, etc. Once you know how you measure up against the competition it can be easier to set an appropriate tuition fee.
3. Get Rid of All Negative Energy
There is really not a lot of explaining for this one. If someone causes you extreme stress for some reason, do not continue to have them as a client. It will affect all other aspects of your life, and no one needs negative energy in or near their life.
4. Be Nice and Always Remember Your Clients’ Best Interests
There may be times where you need to do something that may not benefit yourself immediately, but what is the right action for your client. For example, you may come across a student who is not ready for lessons, so you may need to recommend that they wait a year, or a quarter until they're ready. It is always better to be honest, especially for future business.
5. Return All Calls
Again, not much explanation needed. No one likes to not be called back, so return all calls!
Have a goal, such as 1 hour turnaround for all calls, and at the most 24 hours. With cell phones and blackberries more common now speedy response times are more common and expected.
Happy Teaching and Practicing to all!
Julie Gunvalson, Owner
Piano By Julie
Labels: business tips for piano teachers
posted by julianna536 at
4:19 PM
3 Comments:
Thank you for sharing your piano business model with others! I find your blog informational and helpful! Keep up the good work!
May I also add that - be persistent and never give up. Sometimes it takes awhile to get the business going.
It is like trying to get the train going - once it get going, it is hard to stop.
http://www.yokewong.net
Persistence is definitely another great point as well. You never know how close you are to having the success that you want!
Great website that you have, all of your piano courses look very interesting.
I agree with both of you on the persistence point. One strategy is to set a minimum time frame for lessons. This sometimes works well for a student who is "on the fence" about taking piano lessons. You can say, "We'll just try this for 3 months; if you don't like it after then, you don't have to continue."
As my sister is wont to say, "All things are negotiable."
Thanks, Yoke, Julie, for your comments.
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