Using the Interview Record: A Comprehensive Checklist for New Students

The written word is powerful in communicating policies and procedures. This checklist of questions for a new student is helpful for both you and them to ensure communication is clear and expectations are set from the beginning.

Key Points to Cover:

  1. No Refunds Policy:

    • Script: “There are no refunds for unused tuition, so it’s very important that Joey takes full advantage of the classes.”
    • Purpose: Ensures parents and students understand the commitment and encourages consistent attendance.

  2. Monthly Payment Amount and Due Date:

    • Script: “Just to review, your tuition is $69 per month and it is due on the 5th of each month starting next month. Tuition must be paid even if you are unable to attend class as long as you are a student of the school. We do not freeze programs for vacation.”
    • Purpose: Clarifies financial commitments and reinforces the importance of regular attendance.

  3. Equipment Needed:

    • Script: Provide a short explanation of your gear requirements.
    • Purpose: Ensures students are prepared with the necessary equipment for training.

  4. Sponsorship Tradition:

    • Script: “One of the traditions of the martial arts is the process of giving back to the arts by bringing people into the school. We would like to have a program where the only way you could join is to be referred in. But for now, we simply rely on our students to help us grow by referring their friends in.”
    • Purpose: Encourages community building and student referrals.

  5. Intent to Promote Form for Children:

    • Script: “This will be distributed before each exam. We teach the principles of Black Belt Excellence in our school which essentially is a high personal standard of conduct. One way that we can inspect what we expect from the children is with this form.”
    • Purpose: Sets expectations for behavior and performance, involving parents in the progress monitoring process.

  6. Exam Process:

    • Script: “Progress reviews take place in class each month on the third week of the month. Full uniform is required and attendance is mandatory. We like to see the family really supportive of these exams. They are designed to be little mini-victories for the students, so make plans to celebrate the victory with your child.”
    • Purpose: Prepares students and parents for the examination process and emphasizes the importance of family support.

  7. Goal is to Qualify for the National Black Belt Club:

    • Script: “Your program is an entry-level trial program. It’s really designed so we get a chance to evaluate your child for advanced training. In about three months, your child will enter the Black Belt update phase of his training. With good attendance and a strong attitude, he should qualify for the Black Belt Club. We’ll keep you posted on his progress and let you know when we get to that point.”
    • Purpose: Sets long-term goals for the student and outlines the path to achieving them.

Conclusion

Using this Interview Record checklist ensures that communication is clear and expectations are set from the beginning. This structured approach helps in building a strong foundation for the student's journey in martial arts, ultimately leading to higher retention and student satisfaction.