initial phone conversations
Sifu Parrella,
I like the way you approach business and interacting with customers.
How do you handle initial phone conversations? People a lot of time when they call want to know a little bit about the art, the cost and when classes are available. Should the subject of cost be avoided during this initial conversation? Some base their decision on whether or not to train with you based on this factor and usually without coming to visit to see what it is you have to offer. They hear the price and then you can hear their tone change and it seems like the conversation has basically ended. How do you get them from this cost question to in the school for a visit?
How do you get past the "what is the cost for all of this?" type of question during the initial phone conversation.
I think it is best if people come in and can watch a class and talk with the instructor (sifu) and get a general feeling of the school.
Is it best to tell them that "our school offers many programs and it would be best if you can stop in and visit so we can discuss which program is right for you" type of reply. Then ask them when they would be available and immediately invite them to the school at that day/time. I believe this would motivate the prospective client to visit otherwise he/she would feel that they are letting you down by not attending their scheduled appointment.
Also would you call them if they didn't show up for their scheduled appointment at a later date/time?
Finally, if a student is really interested in learning (joining the school) but can't afford the annual contract, how do you handle that?
Do you ask them what you can afford and go from there? Or do you offer them an agreement of sometype to help maintain the school (cleaning, general chores, etc.) and reduce the contract rate?
Kind Regards,
Angelo F.