what to ask

[Nickel]

What do you normally ask during the phone interview. I have to call a prospective client tomorrow and I'm not sure what to ask. Should i just set up the interview? Or chat a few moments? What are some things you do during the phone call?

[Blackcat31]

I will chat with the parents and find out

• age of child
• care hours they need
• new to daycare or searching for different provider
• what they (parents) are looking for.....structure, mixed age group, small group etc
• where they work
• where they got my info

....and things like that. I will usually just start chatting and in the process, find out as much as I can about them. If I feel I have what they are looking for, I will invite them to set up an interview and go from there.

If I don't get a good vibe from them or don't offer what they want, I will just say that I am probably not a good fit for them (due to needing care longer than I am open etc) and maybe give them some names/numbers of area providers I know who may be able to help them out.

Sometimes, telling them I won't be a good fit, will inspire them to be willing to make adjustments such as picking up by the time I close etc and ask me for an interview anyways.

Basically just chat with them and you should be able to tell if they are a good fit for you or not.

Use your "spidey-senses" Red flags will definitely jump out at you. No matter what don't agree to anything you aren't sure of without giving it some thought first. I know you want to get good clients but don't jump the gun just to do so.

[DCMama]

Thanks for that information and the question. I just got my first Phone interview just now and I just used your questions. I felts so nervous...