Great Trial Lessons in Three Steps - Teacher James

One facet of being an independent teaching professional like Rubilan is assuming the dual role of recruiting and maintaining students. This aspect differs from traditional classroom teachers who benefit from institutions handling student enrollment, teacher recruitment, class scheduling, and attendance coordination. The latter scenario might result in varied compatibility between educators and learners, as the fit between them isn't always guaranteed. Freelancers, however, possess the unique privilege of recruiting and "auditioning" prospective students, fostering a more aligned match.

On the flip side, this procedure demands freelancers on platforms like Rubilan to vie for student attention. Students navigating these platforms can effectively "shop around" for the instructor who they believe can optimally guide them in their language pursuit. Consequently, freelancers must deploy strategic approaches to stand out in this competitive landscape. Excelling solely as educators isn't sufficient; freelancers must also adeptly present and market their services.

Given these considerations, the recruitment process becomes pivotal for freelancers, and the trial lesson takes center stage within this journey. Once a captivating profile and video introduction have enticed a potential student to schedule an initial lesson, the responsibility shifts to impressing them sufficiently to secure continued lessons. The trial lesson signifies the only opportunity to create a memorable first impression. Hence, here are three minor adjustments that can sway a prospective student to become a regular one.

First, initiating contact with the student promptly and expressing your interest in learning more about them prior to the lesson is essential. A simple Rubilan chat message can serve this purpose. Alternatively, sending a "Needs Analysis" survey demonstrates your dedication. This survey, crafted by you, seeks insights into the student's language level, background, and goals. This initiative illustrates your investment in their learning journey, underscores your seriousness about the trial lesson, and signals your commitment to preparation.

Following this, approach the lesson equipped with a well-structured plan. The trial lesson should surpass mere introductory pleasantries. While sharing personal details, discussing weather, and exploring hobbies are valuable, demonstrating commitment to both the student and the lesson necessitates presenting a tailored activity.

Presenting what you can offer verbally isn't as effective as showcasing your capabilities through action. Students seek tangible evidence of the learning experience they can expect from you. Maintaining a trial lesson with approximately 20 minutes of structured activities prepared is advisable.

Building a repository of diverse trial lessons, each targeting different levels and topics that may pique the prospective student's interest, is beneficial. The "Needs Analysis" survey proves useful here in selecting the optimal trial lesson for each student. This practice reiterates your attentiveness to their unique learning goals.

Moreover, preparing preformatted trial lessons has an added advantage: you can refine your delivery, ensuring they are both entertaining and engaging. A captivating presentation enhances the likelihood of the student reflecting, "That was fascinating! The teacher taught me something; I want to learn with them."

Lastly, seize the pivotal opportunity to impart knowledge to the prospective student. The term "trial lesson" implies a teaching element. Equipped with the "Needs Analysis" insights and your chosen activities, you're primed to teach them something novel during that half-hour window. As a goal, aim to impart at least three previously unknown concepts, be it new vocabulary, elementary grammar nuances, or idiomatic expressions. Regardless of lesson type, students ideally should emerge feeling they've gained insights. When perceived value is evident, they're more likely to book further lessons. Consequently, dedicating time to meaningful instruction prevails over indulging in mere small talk.

Should the trial lesson resonate as engaging and enjoyable, if the teacher's focus is evident, and if the student gains valuable insights, the odds of them scheduling another lesson increase. Securing students with an impactful trial lesson sets the stage to retain them for the long term using similar strategies. Best of luck on your teaching journey!