Go back to the basics with 3 questions (and expert-led answers) that every childcare administrator should ask themselves.
Enrollment Outlook
It’s no secret that the childcare industry worldwide has experienced many evolutions over the years. With the rise of single and multiple parents in the workforce, increased cost of living, and a greater understanding of the importance of Early Childhood Education (ECE), the demand for quality care has become vital for economies across the globe. The supply side of this equation has proven to be challenging though.
According to child care owners or directors surveyed and reported on in a NY Times article, less than 50% of providers are enrolling fewer children than they are licensed for.
With the competitive landscape of the childcare market, it can be tough to maintain best practices for increased enrollment, whether you are a single-site or a multi-location franchise. Let’s go back to the basics with 3 questions (and expert-led answers) that every childcare administrator should ask themselves.
📢 How Do I: Market My Offerings?
- Invest in marketing! Be sure your website is up to date and tells your story.
- Use a CRM, custom landing pages, or tracking link for better insights into where your potential customers are coming from.
- Make booking tours easy. Have an easy-to-find tour booking calendar.
- Never miss a lead! Use online tools to capture contact info and follow each family’s journey from first inquiry and beyond.
- Provide your staff with your competitive advantages, so that in your absence everyone knows what to say to convert families from leads to customers.
- Never leave a conversation without a tour booked or follow-up planned.
🗂️ How Do I: Perfect Our Processes?
- It starts with the initial phone call or walk in. Did you answer within the first 3 rings? Was someone at the front desk to greet a walk-in?
- Book the tour right away. This shows initiative, transparency, and a welcoming environment.
- Ask for the business! “Can you see <insert child’s name> thriving here?” Contact grab immediately so that you can stay in touch for follow-ups.
- Don’t oversell. Instead, ask what 3 things they are looking for in considering childcare providers. Then, tailor your pitch to their needs.
- Be upfront! Set proper expectations for your center’s standards and processes early.
👨👩👦 How Do I: Retain Families?
To access step 3 (Retaining Families), download the full guide here.
Meet our Expert Content Contributor: Rose Morelock
A visionary who has played a critical role in the profound growth of the U.S. educational childcare sector, Rose’s accomplishments are many. With 45+ years of experience, she has served as Regional District Manager, VP of Ops, VP of Talent Acquisition, Board Member, Consultant, and everything in between. Rose is an expert in childcare, franchising, building strong connections, leadership, and CMS software.