By Jeremy Tiers, Vice President of Admissions Services
3 minute read
My article last week, which outlined a big mistake to avoid when you start conversations at high school visits and college fairs, generated a lot of follow-up questions from readers.
The most common one asked for additional ‘fall travel season’ do’s and don’ts.
Do…
- Reach out to high school counselors ahead of your visit, tell them how much you appreciate the work they do for students and families, and ask for the top one or two college related questions they’ve been getting from students as well as from parents/guardians.
- Look in your CRM and send a short email or text to senior inquiries, applicants, and admits that encourages them to stop by during your visit. Also recognize that some students won’t be able to stop by, so ask one direct question in your message based on the student’s stage and what you do or don’t know about them.
- Gather some stories from current students at your college or university that are relatable and relevant for prospective students. Sharing the all-important current student point of view can help your conversations feel more authentic.
- When you get one or two word answers, or an unsure look from students, tell them what you think they might be thinking. Sometimes it’s easier for students to agree or disagree with you than it is to verbalize how they feel.
- Focus on your pace when you speak. Slow down, pronounce things clearly, and take pauses between thoughts or before you answer a question. It doesn’t have to sound perfect. It just needs to be authentic and helpful.
- Speak with confidence. A confident person is almost always seen as well organized and more believable.
- Take care of your body. Sleep, hydration, and nutrition matter – especially when you’re in an unfamiliar place. Pro tip: Avoid coffee before you speak because it can dehydrate you.
- Explain how you’re going to follow up with each student. What should they be watching for, and when?
Don’t…
- Cross your arms and give off the vibe that you’re not approachable.
- Have a condescending tone when you speak.
- Ask “Do you have any questions” or “What questions do you have.” If you need a one-minute refresher as to why that’s the worst thing you can do, read this article.
- Assume that every lunchroom visit is a complete waste of time. If you want students to come over to your table you need to have something fun for them to do – think games. Cool, free stuff never hurts either.
- Drop off materials and leave if zero students show up for a high school visit. Spend a few minutes trying to make connections and build relationships with the high school counselor or other staff members at the school (namely secretaries and deans).
- Ask students to fill out an inquiry card or scan a QR code at the start of your conversation. Wait until the end when you’ve delivered a memorable experience.
- Forget to engage parent(s)/guardian(s) at college fairs. The experience they have is just as important as the student’s experience. Come prepared with multiple direct questions to ask that group.
- Forget to enter your notes from each conversation into your CRM in a timely manner.
if you found this article helpful, please forward it to someone else on your campus who could also benefit from reading it.