Wondering about Cancelation policy

[Gihane Doeman]

What is the normal cancelation policy regarding pre-paid tutoring services (a month or two week in advance payment). I put in the contract the client must give seven day notice to cancel the service. I think that is adequate.I think clients should be given the option to cancel anytime. I guess if I do that then I could refund half the money paid for pre-paid services. I think that is standard and fair. What is your imput?

[Scott Palat]

I would not recommend a contract. That makes it very difficult to acquire clients.

Here's how I did it:

1. Make a special offer for a 1 hour tutoring session (I used to charge $35). Provide bonuses if possible. Phone consultations, study skills report etc.

2. Immediately following the 1 hour session, offer three different monthly packages that automatically renew every 30 days. Let the parent know they can cancel at anytime. Give a better price for more hours. 3 - $119, 6 for $199 10 for $249.

3. Consult with the parent on an ongoing basis and they'll never leave you.

[Gihane Doeman]

well I have a contract in the contract the parent can cancel 7 days in advance. I think that is reasonable. What do the education centers do? They have contracts I believe. I think having a contract might make doubtful parents feel that the service is more "legit." What do you think?

[Scott Palat]

That is not true based on my experience. Plus, you'll lose some parents right off the bat, because they won't want to sign it. If you provide an excellent service and actually the parent(s) to consult about their child's learning needs, you won't need a contract, because your client won't ever leave you.

Also, it seems like you want to offer more than a 1 to 1 ration of tutor to student. If you do this, you'll make more per hour, but you'll have trouble holding onto your clients.

It should be your goal to hold clients for months/years.