How to Make Sure Your Clients Stay Engaged: 4 Tips
Many adult students returning to school have had a bad experience in the past. They may have dropped out while taking a few classes right after high school or failed after a semester or two. If this is true of your clients, they may be worried about how they’ll do in their job training program.
The good news is that anyone can do well in school with the right motivation and support. Studies have shown that engagement is even more important than attendance in school success. Engaged students are more than twice as likely to do well in their classes. One of the best things you can do to foster success in your clients is to help them stay engaged.
Check In Often
There are many factors that affect student engagement, including a sense of belonging, interest, obstacles, teaching methods and self-beliefs. Neither you nor your clients can control all of the variables. However, the best way to determine if your clients are becoming less engaged is to check in with them often.
Ask how their classes are going and follow up on any issues they report. Even students who are highly engaged at the start of their studies can lose motivation over time. If you check in with them regularly, you’ll be able to identify signs of decreasing engagement and help them reverse course before it's too late.
Address Challenges Head-on
Many adult learners have work, family obligations or other responsibilities that can interfere with their classwork. Significant obstacles can wear down even the most dedicated students. Whether finding time to study or working out the logistics of childcare, your clients can get overwhelmed and demoralized if they have to deal with these issues on their own.
Some clients may need help dealing with anxiety or self-doubt. You can help by matching them with resources or brainstorming solutions.
Focus On the Why
When your clients are struggling, focusing on why they want to finish school can help them push through. For many of your clients, their why involves getting a better job to create a good life for their families. Everyone is unique, though, so be specific when reminding a client about their why. If your client wants a well-paying job so they can afford to buy a home, you might suggest they download a picture of their dream house for their computer wallpaper.
Work With a Partner Who Cares
You can make the task of keeping your clients engaged easier if you work with a school like MedCerts that prioritizes supporting students. Classes that feature realistic demonstrations and use technology for hands-on simulations are naturally engaging and motivating.
A dedicated Admissions Advisor will work with your client to help them choose the best course for their goals. During their program, they’ll work with a Student Success Advisor who’s trained in providing individualized assistance, guidance and motivation.
Finally, once they’ve successfully completed their training, a Career Coach will mentor them, help them build a professional resume and identify internship and job opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Staying motivated is difficult when your clients are dealing with competing obligations and wondering if they can handle going back to school. When you help them figure out how to stay engaged in class, point out the many benefits of finishing their program, remind them of their why and encourage them to take advantage of their school’s resources. They may face obstacles, but the end result will be worth the effort.