In part 1 of this series, we addressed the mental attitude necessary to help new students. In part 2 we gave you ideas about how to help new students before class. Lights, camera, action—it’s now time for class to begin. What steps can you take now to best help new students?
In this article, I want to help you:
- Think about things to say to your entire class that help the new student.
- Remember things you can do to help the new student specifically during class.
- Increase your awareness of typical new student issues.
- Find how to close the sale with a new student after class.
THINGS TO HELP NEW STUDENT THAT YOU SAY TO THE WHOLE CLASS
What you say to the whole class is very important to the new student. Be sure that the message stays consistent. You don’t want to say “You can do your own thing” to the new student privately and then say “OK, let’s hammer” first thing on the mic. Just be consistent.
Establishing a trusting relationship will get new students to come to your class. Once they begin seeing results they will be your students for a long time to come.
When I teach intro classes I introduce people to the concept of drinking when the music changes. It isnt really necessary in those classes but helps build good habits for more challenging work and hotter days. And it gives new riders something that they can do and I can reinforce. It’s amazing how quickly they build the habit and how much it sticks, even years later. This also saves me from having to remember to remind them, except during long long songs.
That’s a great idea to share, Chris. Just make it a habit – same as other good practices that we try to habitualize. I can personally improve in this area and show a better example. Thank you.
Great Robert. I hadn’t thought of the spare water bottles idea. It’s extra trouble for you but I am certain your students see you as willing to go out of your way for them. Good going!
Great suggestions, Bill. As for water, one new participant confessed to one of my regulars that she didn’t know when to drink. Fortunately, this was passed on to me and I now add “a drink cue” to my regular cues.
I also carry spare water bottles in my kit. I announce at the start of each session that there are spare bottles if anyone forgets theirs. I only ask it be returned at the end of class. I run the bottle through the dishwasher and it’s ready for the next class.