Ask the Experts
How do you recruit parent volunteers?
Q: We had a planned meeting today with parents about volunteering at our recital. Over the last couple of weeks, 12–15 parents had expressed interest in helping, but only two people actually showed up to the meeting. We had even sent an e-mail reminder, but to no avail. What are we doing wrong? Do you have any ideas for recruiting parent volunteers
Can studios forbid students from training elsewhere?
Q: A student has started taking a ballet class at another local studio because our schedule doesn’t work for her. She is still taking her other classes at my studio, but I am afraid of losing her completely. I’ve heard of other studios forbidding students to train elsewhere. What should I do?
Creating Full-time Teaching Positions at My Studio
Q: For 30 years we have always paid hourly rates for our teachers. Currently we are losing them to other studios that offer full-time positions plus benefits. What’s the process for creating full-time teaching positions at my studio?
Do you cancel class for low enrollment?
Q: Do you cancel class for low enrollment? I have asked a class of four students to join a same-style class offered at a different time. Three students have agreed. One cannot make the other class time and her mom is upset with me. Any suggestions?
How do you handle disgruntled parents?
Q: I recently had a parent approach me, livid that her daughter wasn’t placed in a higher-level class and threatening to leave the studio. How do you handle disgruntled parents and help them understand that your decision was the best one for their daughter?
How do you tell a family that you would not welcome them back?
Q: I have had terrible issues with a particular family. The kids come to class without appropriate clothes or shoes. They are lazy and don’t seem to want to be there. And the parent is rude to my instructors. How do you tell a family or student that you would not welcome them back?
What Are Effective Marketing Strategies to Boost Enrollment?
Q: What are some effective marketing strategies to boost my enrollment, other than word-of-mouth referrals?
A: Community outreach works! By making a difference in your community, you can get the word out about your programs.
Should I post my schedule online?
Q: I’m very paranoid about posting my schedule online. I’m a new studio, and the only studio out of four in the area that has a website. It has been the best business decision I made (people now request information and ask to be added to the mailing list), but every time I offer something new, another studio does it, too. I have adult classes, now they have adult classes. I have the only musical theater program, now one of the other studios is trying to start one, too.
What's the best way to introduce a new instructor to my studio?
Q: I have a wonderful instructor who is leaving us to spend more time with her family. We have a great working relationship, so it’s hard to have her go. I have heard horror stories of students and parents being hooked on the teacher, rather than the program, and leaving because of it. I have a new instructor lined up who appears to be great as a replacement. How can I introduce her in a way that will excite the students and their parents and keep them on board?
Ask the Experts: How should I handle 'drama' at my studio?
Q: How do you handle “drama” at your studio? Our dance company policy manual states that bad-mouthing, arguing and general lack of respect will not be tolerated. My co-director wants me to come down hard when we feel that someone has broken these rules, but I know people want to feel validated and understood. I’m struggling with the balance of being assertive yet understanding. I feel that if I sound accusatory, they will be on the defensive and nothing positive will be accomplished.
