Professionalism, Professionalism, Professionalism!

The most important thing is to act professional.  You should wear business attire to the trial lesson.  This doesn't mean that you have to for all and any future lessons, but the first one is a must.  This makes you look professional and not like some bum who doesn't know what they are doing and fresh off the boat.

This is called a trial lesson, but let's call it what it really is an interview.  They are interviewing you to see if you will make a good teacher and if you both will make a good match.  Rule of thumb, treat it like a hot blind date.  Be sincere, be yourself and be on your best behavior.  This should go with out saying, but be on time!  Make sure you know the location, the train route and train times.  Being late will kill your chances.  No one likes to have their time wasted.

Another good tip is to choose a good location.  Some students don't want people to know they are studying English.  So choose a not so crowded, quiet, relaxing place with a well lit area.   Also make sure you have a table or desk for writing.  It should be convenient for the both of you.

Be friendly!

Be overly friendly, with a big smile, and a good firm handshake.  This goes a long way.  Give lot's of praise!  Most students will be very shy and nervous especially about their English skills.  When you praise them they will feel more relaxed and then you can really judge their level and character.

Be prepared!

Being prepared will help you to be confident.  If you go trying to wing it you can end up looking like an idiot.  Know what you will be discussing in the lesson.  Don't make it too complicated.  You can always adjust the level of difficulty if you find the student is a high level.  The more of these trial lessons you do, the more comfortable you will be.  If you need help with some trial lessons plans check out our materials.  Make sure you have all necessary materials and that they are in good condition. If you can have something the student can take home something.  This will help the student remember you and the lesson, and it also shows them what they learned. This helps with the level of professionalism.

Basic conversation.

This is only a 50 minute lesson, so try to gauge the student's level in the first 10-15 minutes of conversation.  Obviously start with basic introductions (if you have a business card now is the time to present it), and get to know their hobbies, reasons for studying, and what their goals are for English.  Then move on to your trial lesson.  Make corrections with the student on grammar, pronunciation, etc.  This shows them that they have things to learn from you.

When you are finished with your lesson go over the students strengths and weaknesses.  Typically give 4 positives and 2-3 negatives.  (pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, intonation, fluency, listening, reading, etc.)  Show them how they would benefit from studying with you.  This should include what you can do to help them achieve their goals.  You should also discuss with them their level and what you can do with them.  If they wish to discuss contracts, times, and prices, by all means do it, but do not force it on them.  Usually they want to think it over.

At the closing sincerely thank them and make sure they have your business card or a method of contacting you if they wish to continue to take your lessons.   Also make sure to get your ticket from the student so you can get paid.

Follow these steps for your trial lessons and you are sure to start landing some contract students.  Good luck!

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