Listening, internalizing, and responding in a way that shows you're heard the student helps develop a connection and show of respect. Respect seems to be fundamental in the exchange.

Listening and asking questions is essential to relationship building.

Admissions is really about building a connection. The school is trying to show students why it’s a great place for them, and students are showing why they’d be a great fit. It’s about getting to know each other. And sometimes, through that process, you realize the student might actually thrive even more somewhere else — and that’s a good thing, because the goal is to help them find the best place to grow.

Making the connect is key to advance listening skills

Communication is key to knowing, understanding and the keys to connecting to the student or anyone personally. Loving this part of the training so far.

The Hierarchy of Communication is present in most interactions, and is the key to meaningful dialogue. Improving listening skills is a personal goal of mine.

Body language is just as important in conversation as the words that are spoken. Being open to communication creates a better learning environment.

I learned that it is important to connect with the student and ask the right questions to build rapport.  Understand their history, their current needs, give them options, and make sure you understand how best to help them.

There is shared responsibility for follow-up. Both the student and admissions professional need to collaborate for progress and informed decision making.

I learned not to overreact to a "no-show" and instead take measures to reconnect and shoot for a second meeting.