Tips to Remember When Calling

Chrispeels, Boruta, and Daugherty (1988) make the following suggestions for using the telephone to establish rapport with parents before making a home visit:

• "Ask for the person by full name: 'May I speak with Mrs. Jane Smith?'

• Introduce yourself and explain your purpose in calling (to share with them some information that can help their child).

• Open the conversation by briefly telling something about your own family, your background in the community, and your connection to the school.

• Be positive. The way you communicate your attitude forms a lasting impression.

• Convey a genuine interest in the person you're calling. Here, interest is the key word, particularly an interest in the children. Express an interest in the future of their children, and they will express an interest in your project.

• Be persistent, in a friendly manner. Don't give up until the person clearly expresses that he/she is not interested in your project.

• Finally, stop calling when you get tired. It's difficult to be friendly when you're tired." (p. 87)

Adapted from material presented by Reginald Clark at a workshop to train home visitors in San Diego. Courtesy of the San Diego County Office of Education.

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