How do I review the student waitlist of a music lessons school?

Start with how the list is kept. A spreadsheet that is updated, with a contact date beside each name, is more reliable than a pile of messages. Ask when the owner last called the people on it, and what share still wanted a place.

Then read it by instrument and time slot. Demand for one instrument may be strong while another sits half empty, and a waitlist for after-school hours may not help a school with open mornings. Check which teachers the families asked for, because demand attached to one teacher can leave with that teacher.

Compare the list to capacity. If teachers have no room, the list shows missed income; if they have room, ask why the names have not been filled. The answer might be price, timing or something else you should know. Last, ask how a family moves from the list to a first lesson, and how long it takes. Your accountant can help you see what the list means for the books. If a name came from a trial lesson or a referral, mark it, since those families usually convert more readily than a cold enquiry. Ask as well whether anyone on the list was turned away for lack of space, and how many chose another school.

Key takeaways

• Check sign-up dates and the last contact date beside each name.
• Break the list down by instrument, time slot and requested teacher.
• If teachers have room, ask why the list has not already been turned into students.