Referrals
Many Admissions Representatives, including myself, don't ask for PDR's as much as we should. I have set daily goals for myself to be able to help me and my team. Any suggestions in different approaches?
Great questions Ana B. @anitablineau :
That is a great comment Ana B. I sometimes ask at the end of the interview if they wish to change someone's life I also check in our questionnaire for any refferals placed by the candidate and sometimes I see they have added a referral or two in that space.
I ask towards the end of the interview but during the interview I start planting the seeds to see if they know of any one that could also benefit from going back to school.
I ask sometimes for PDR's. But one thing I know PDR's convert much faster then a new lead.
The most cost effective way to get enrollments is by asking for PDL's. Those are also the most likely to enroll and complete programs. It is very important to ask each prospective student for atleat three.
I enjoy asking for referrals and explaining how they can help others get back on their feet by getting the skills and training to get a career not just a job!
Ask EVERYBODY!! at the grocery store...in the bar...at Barnes and Noble...at Starbucks...wherever. Get comfortable striking up conversations with strangers EVERYWHERE! Hey...they pay us to do that on a regular basis anyway, right?
As for the interview...plant the seed in your opening statement.. "I want to know about you...who supports your ideas about your choices of career options?"..."tell me about them"...write their names down...refer bsack to them throughout the tour...ask them, "whose life would you like to impact with this opportunity?" GO FOR IT!!
I recommend saying to folks on the phone, "Maybe this isn't the right time/program for you, but I am in the business of changing lives and would love to know who you know that could really benefit from getting information from me?" Most time they say no one, but you will never know unless you ask. What' the worse they can do...hang up? They were going to anyway, right?
Hope that helps :)
SN: don't get all tongue tied or shy...it's just a conversation.
