019 - Do's and Don'ts of the Tennis Pro

So today’s quick tip is: Following some basic Do’s and Don’ts will help you and the staff be more consistent and look more professional When I started teaching, on my own, I had to write up policies for my staff.  I came out of college as a Director at a resort in Northern Michigan. Not because I was an amazing pro, but I think I had a lot of help from my PTM Director and they really didn’t have any programs yet, it was just an amenity, so I couldn’t screw it up that badly, Right? I still had to come up with a whole set of programs, policies and processes on how things needed to be done. What did I do?, well if you listen to episode 003, I copied a bunch of things from my PTM program, camps and  internships I worked, called other pros and had some of my own. To be honest, I was not great initially at developing a “Teaching Philosophy” for the program, and my focus was on just creating one.  Now I was still a Greenhorn Director and Pro, but I did want the staff to be professional and I would worry about the other stuff later.  This was all pretty new to me and a bit intimidating because I wanted to do a great job So I took our Do’s and Don’ts for the tennis professional that we had  in our PTM program and applied this to our program, and I want to go over these with you today.  They will be in the show notes as well Remember that these are basic and a bit old, but I think still stand true to this day.  If you were taking this in a certification course, it would definitely be more complex, but this should be a great start. Do’s and Don’ts of the Teaching Professional Arrive 15 minutes early.  Exaggerate alertness and expression. LOOK PROFESSIONAL. Follow the clubs dress code (collared shirt) Make sure that courts and equipment are prepared in advance. Listen to Head Pro’s instruction and objectives. Stay on court during the whole lesson. Help pick up balls.   DON’TS: Show up late. Yawn (or hug your racquet) Lean against the net post, curtain, etc… Talk or bounce balls while the Head Pro is talking. Talk about work related problems with students. Leave court during ball pick-up.   BASIC DRILL ADMINISTRATION TIPS        Get Their Attention Be loud and enthusiastic Exaggerate expression DEMAND ATTENTION Keep Them Moving Students should not be standing in one spot too long Most important to a parent watching the lesson More fun for students More fun for Director to watch Setting Up The Drill Explain the drill and objective Demonstrate drill Split students up by ability if needed Tips For Good On Court Drill Administration Pay attention to safety Pay attention to drill speed Exaggerate loudness and expression   VOLUNTARY ACTIVITIES FOR TENNIS PROFESSIONALS There are many voluntary activities done by staff members that will enhance the program.  These activities are the catalysts that will move the program from an average one, to one that excels.  These “freebies” reflect your interest in the programs and will help your students feel a bit more special.  These are “Extras” like we talked about in episode 001 These might include: Hitting with students during free time, even 5 to 10 minutes will have an impact on the student and their parent. - Helping a student select a tennis camp - Taking students to tournaments - Organizing a tournament or fun day - Watching students play out of class  This is big when you want to make that good first impression like we discussed in episode 011 Bottom Line: Looking professional and acting professional will definitely set you apart from even those pros who think they are better than you.  You are in the people business. Good Luck,  Coach Mick, USPTA