Phone Etiquette
Phone Etiquette Guide for Dance Studios
In a studio filled with loud music and the sound of tapping shoes, the phone is often your most ignored business tool. Every missed call from a parent is a potential $200/month student who might call the studio down the street if you don't answer professionally and quickly.
The Five-Position Greeting
When the phone rings, you need to answer within three rings, even if you are between private lessons. Start with a high-energy greeting like, 'Happy Tuesday! Thank you for calling [Studio Name], this is [Your Name], how can I help your dancer today?' This immediately tells the parent they called the right place and sets a welcoming tone for their child's hobby. If you are mid-class and the music is loud, move to a hallway before speaking so you don't sound distracted or unprofessional.
Key takeaway: Always identify the studio name and yourself immediately to build trust with new parents.
Quoting Prices Without Scaring Parents
When a parent asks 'How much are classes?', don't just bark out a number. Explain the value of the experience first. If they want a $15-$30 drop-in class, mention that most students find the $100-$200 monthly unlimited pass a better way to see real progress. For those interested in the $500/month competition team, emphasize the costume quality, choreography, and travel opportunities included in that investment. Always frame the price as an investment in their child's confidence.
