The most common problem that new tutors face is getting clients. Once you have built up a reputation amongst your clients you will start getting referrals but to start with you may have real problems finding work. In competitive areas like Sydney there can be a very high density of competing tutors in a small area. Some top tips for finding clients when you are just starting out are:
- Offer a first booking for free (try before you buy)
- Offer a niche subject
- Price your lessons according to your experience. Like every job, more experience equals more pay.
- Print and distribute flyers around your local area. These should look professional and include your direct contact number. You can leave them in shops, community centers etc.
- List yourself on as many tutoring directories as you can.
Another common problem tutors face is pricing themselves competitively. Do some research into how much tutors are charging in your local area and price yourself accordingly. You may have a phd but if you don't have any experience tutoring, or any clients, you may have to price yourself towards the bottom end of the market to start with.
If you are tutoring from home make sure you have a good place to study. A study area should be uncluttered, quiet and in a part of the house away from disturbances. If you are tutoring children then try to remove as many distractions as possible - nice views, televisions and computers are out - the child should be concentrating on their work not on the TV or what a lovely day it is outside! The more attentive the child the better the results they will get and the more clients you will get!
If you are tutoring children then you may have to get a police check. These vary from state to state, for Sydney tutors for example you must have a working with children check (WWCC) performed by the police.