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Bite Sized Bits of Information
Hello!
I just had an interesting discussion with my mentor regarding ensuring we keep our instructions to clients in small, bite size pieces to help them understand new ideas and techniques. I *try* do that, but can certainly think of times when I failed to acknowledge the difficulty of say, a novice dog owner trying to handle a clicker while focusing on a new behavior from their dog. And then I had to backtrack and adjust. How do you remind yourself to stay in tune with your client’s skill level and keep things simple? I’d love to hear your techniques and style!
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8 Replies
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What an important question, @LisaOMy . I’m looking forward to seeing members’ input.
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This right here is what makes the difference between a good and a great teacher! One thing I try to do is to focus on what they are doing right (especially if it is something I earlier coached them how to do). For example if we were working on their hand position on the leash, I will call out “Nice hands”. I’ll try to keep my focus on 2-3 skills or concepts in a session. If they need more than that, they obviously need more sessions. I’ll list the things we need to work on or discuss at the end, then ask when they’d like to book their next lesson, or I will sell a package. ????
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This is a great point. I know absolutely that I am guilty of worrying about being “pushy” and selling additional packages or sessions. I try to give people as much as I can within their means, but I also understand that some things need more time. Being comfortable “selling” is something I’m working on. I always start with a consult and appropriate package. But saying “hey, here’s where we can go from here” is still hard for me in some instances.
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It’s really normal to want to give people everything you know as quickly as possible. But honestly, you will get more “buy-in” and earn more appreciation when you keep it simple. The human brain cannot grasp too many concepts all at once. By giving people “hooks” with info they already know (like using analogies) and by showing/teaching them the same thing in several different ways, you are much more likely to help them be successful.
Sometimes clients are the issue – they hire you for one thing then bring up 17 other non-related things while you are there. I have a scripted answer that gets personalized – it goes something like this:
Today’s session is about __(state what you are working on)__. We’re focused on it because _(why they told you it is important)____. I hear you also need answers for __(new issue)___, _(other new issue)____, and _(other new issue)____. That’s great! We can get to everything in due course. What is your priority? (Listen) Okay, in that case, I suggest we begin our next session focused on ____(that priority)____. I’m happy to continue working with you until we’ve met all your goals. We have package-session pricing that will really help you get the most instruction at a great price. We can talk about those lesson packages at the end of our session. For now, let’s get back to today’s goal. Here’s your next step….
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That’s awesome! And yes, when a session about (A) becomes a session about (x,y,z,lmnop) is where I get stressed lol
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Yes – that can be overwhelming for everyone, @LisaOMy – for sure!
The good news is, you are the expert so you get to lead the lesson. When you let the folks know that you hear all their concerns and have a plan for addressing each one at a future time, and when you let them help you set the priority for what’s next, taking everything in turn, it spells success for everyone.
Remember – you are there to help and you know that doing so in short, focused increments is best for the dog and for them. Setting these boundaries gets easier with practice!
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Hi @LisaOMy . Something I find helpful, when I see a client struggling with a new skill, is to figure out a way to tease apart different components. For example, with mechanical skills, a person can practice the sequence of click / then reach into treat pouch / then deliver it to a bowl on a table, until this is a piece of cake for them. Then they can do the same thing but deliver the treat to the dog, when he doesn’t have to do any particular behavior. Then finally they can move to full sequence: give cue / dog complies / click / reach into pouch / deliver treat.
In other situations, I may start as the one who marks the exact moment of behavior we’re working on, with the client then delivering the treat. In this way, they see that snapshot-moment for themselves and will get a better idea of exactly WHAT I find click-worthy. Then they can take over that piece.-
Very nice routine!
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