Do you have competitors? Others who offer similar services to you? Others who offer languages classes like you? Whether they're online or in person classes?

I know I do.

There are several teachers in my area who offer French classes, similar to my classes. In the very towns that I deliver my group classes. There are teachers who offer similar online and face to face tuition to me – one to one, GCSE, A level, adults.

Does that mean that I should be afraid of these and others who offer similar services to me? Steer away from them?  Keep an eye on them? Amend what I offer because of what they offer too?  Amend my pricing to keep in line with them?

I don’t think so.

I don’t think I should change the way that I work because of someone else.  Being aware of what each other is doing is great, and being pushed to improve is even better, but changing because of fear that someone might be “taking your business” isn’t healthy.

I mentioned in a Facebook post that I might not be the right teacher for some people. I’m great for some but not so much for others.

I might not have the correct experience or qualifications.

I might charge too much – or too little (yes that is a thing!)

I might not have the availability that suits some people (I only teach 1 or 2 group classes in the evening, the rest are during the day).

I might teach somewhere that isn’t easy for someone to get to – the parking may not be great, or it may be too far to get to.

My “competitor” might be able to fill those gaps. He/she/they might be able to teach at a more convenient time or venue, or at a more appropriate price (and that doesn’t always mean cheaper).

And that’s fine.

There are enough learners to go round. There are enough great people to teach those learners.

If I can’t accommodate a learner, I’m more than happy to pass them on to someone who can serve them better than me.  I’ve done that before and I’m happy to keep on doing it. 

I don’t bad mouth or criticise my fellow independent languages tutors.

We don’t build ourselves (and our businesses) up by tearing others down.

Teaching is about supporting our learners, why not support our fellow independent languages teachers too?

If you’re interested in being supported in your languages teaching business, why not take a look at the ways I can help you. A power hour is a great way to get started - get my eyes on your business to help support your business journey