Quick Tips for Building Relationships

Building relationships with students is important for setting them - and us - up for success. Building relationships can help us build student and family motivation, gain credibility, and have more satisfied students and families.

Students want to know that 1) we’re the expert in what we’re teaching them, and 2) we are personally invested in their success. The first one is usually pretty evident from the way we teach. The second one is a little harder.

Some ways we can show students we are invested in them is by learning names, listening to and validating concerns, having consistently high expectations, and providing meaningful and personalized instruction. However, sometimes it isn’t possible to do all of these things at once, especially in a large group or during a short time frame.

Here are some quick and easy ways to work on those relationships.

1) Ask how they’re doing - and listen to the answer. Even though we tend start most interactions with a quick “Hi, how are you?” we don’t always spend enough time listening to the answer. Take a few moments to listen to a students when they walk into the room.

2) Refer back to personal goals. When you start working with a new student, ask about their long term goals, whether it’s career-related or something else. Make a note of these goals and mention them every once in awhile, whether it’s for motivation (“A good score on this test can help your chances of getting into Brown!”) or just showing you’re listening (“That volunteer work at the animal shelter is great experience towards your goal of becoming a veterinarian.”)

3) Admit when you’re wrong. They know. They always know. It’ll make you look smarter and more trustworthy if you admit you’ve made a mistake rather than trying to hide it (or worse, doubling down). It might feel icky in the moment, but can help students trust you.

4) Take notes. Students have a fascinating habit of dropping incredibly important information at completely unexpected moments. If they’re sharing something important, whether it’s a new goal, an issue at home, or a new idea, write it down! Ask them about it later.

Source:

https://osse.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/osse/page_content/attachments/Klem_and_Connell_2004_JOSH_article.pdf