050: 5 Things I’ve Learned in Hiring 20 Teachers

Hiring music teachers has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of running a multi-teacher studio. After interviewing and hiring over 20 teachers, I’ve gained valuable insights into what works, what doesn’t, and how to navigate the process with confidence. In this solo episode, I’m sharing the five biggest lessons I’ve learned to help you make smarter hiring decisions and build a strong, reliable team for your studio. Whether you’re building a team or hiring for your independent studio, you’ll find practical advice to help navigate the process.

• Rachel discusses her journey managing a church-based conservatory, starting from scratch in 2022 after the pandemic.
• Some challenges she encountered in hiring music teachers.
• Always prioritize in-person interviews to better assess candidates and their fit.
• Candidates should experience the commute and see the teaching environment firsthand.
• Punctuality, presentation, and overall first impressions are important considerations.
• Flexible, conversational interviews tailored to the candidate provide more natural insights.
• Standard questions include teaching experience, beginner strategies, and method book preferences.
• Availability plays a critical role in hiring decisions.
• Pay attention to red flags, such as lateness or negative talk about previous employers.
• Importance of checking references for affirmation into the candidate’s strengths and growth areas.
• Avoid hiring out of desperation, even if it causes temporary delays.
• Embrace diversity by hiring candidates with strengths or backgrounds different from your own.
• Trial lessons or second interviews can provide clarity when you’re uncertain.

Links Mentioned

• TopMusic AI Podcast
• TopMusic Piano Podcast 049: Growing Creative Cultivation Studio with Shannon Saravia
• Download your TopMusic Magazine here

About Rachel Ehring

Dr. Rachel Ehring is a pianist, teacher, music administrator, and lover of piano teaching gadgets. She holds a DMA in Collaborative Piano from the University of Colorado Boulder and a MM in Accompanying from the University of Kansas. She currently serves as Director at St. John’s Conservatory of the Arts in Orange County, CA. Previously, she held positions at Concordia University Irvine and Henderson State University. Rachel is passionate about empowering music teachers to create engaging and exciting lessons for students of all ages. When she isn’t playing the piano, you might find Rachel reading books with her son or walking her beagle Frieda.

• Visit her website at RachelEhring.com
• Visit her Instagram page: @rachelehring
• Visit her YouTube channel: @dreamlavendermusic6694
• Visit her Etsy shop at Dream Lavender Music

Thank you for tuning in!

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