How to do Remote Tutoring?

With the rise of digital technologies and global connectivity, remote tutoring has become a popular way for educators and subject experts to offer their services to students from anywhere in the world. Whether you're an experienced teacher looking to expand your reach or someone with expertise in a particular field, remote tutoring is a flexible and rewarding way to help others while earning money. In this post, we'll explore how you can start and succeed in remote tutoring.

1. Identify Your Niche and Expertise

Before diving into remote tutoring, it’s essential to clarify what subjects or skills you are going to teach. Think about your expertise or passion areas where you can provide real value to students. Here are some common tutoring subjects:

• Academic subjects: Math, Science, English, Languages, etc.
• Test prep: SAT, ACT, GRE, IELTS, etc.
• Skills and hobbies: Coding, Graphic Design, Music Lessons, etc.

Once you've identified your niche, you can target your marketing efforts more effectively and attract students who need help in that specific area.

2. Choose the Right Platform

To do remote tutoring, you need a platform that connects you with students. There are various types of platforms available depending on your teaching style, niche, and how you want to structure your tutoring business. Here are a few options:

• Dedicated Tutoring Platforms: Platforms like Wyzant, Chegg Tutors, Tutor.com, and Preply provide infrastructure for connecting with students, setting up schedules, and handling payments. These platforms take a commission in exchange for visibility and support.
• Freelancing Platforms: Platforms like Schemon, Upwork and Fiverr allow you to market your tutoring services alongside other freelancers. You have more control over pricing and client relationships but must actively seek students.
• Creating Your Own Website: If you want full control, you can create your own tutoring website using platforms like WordPress or Squarespace. This option requires more effort to attract students, but it also allows for greater branding and flexibility.

3. Set Up Your Tutoring Environment

To be an effective remote tutor, it’s essential to create a professional and distraction-free environment for both you and your students. Here are some key considerations:

• Reliable Internet Connection: A strong internet connection is vital for video calls and smooth communication with your students.
• Hardware Setup: A good-quality webcam, microphone, and headset are important to ensure clear communication. You might also want to invest in a drawing tablet for subjects that require illustrations, like math or science.
• Comfortable Workspace: Set up a quiet and well-lit space for tutoring, free from distractions. Make sure you have the tools you need, like textbooks, notes, or access to educational resources.

4. Select the Right Tools for Teaching

Remote tutoring requires the use of digital tools for delivering lessons effectively. Here are some essential tools you can use:

• Video Conferencing Tools: Platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, or Skype allow you to conduct live video tutoring sessions with screen sharing capabilities. These are essential for interactive lessons.
• Interactive Whiteboards: Tools like Miro, BitPaper, or Ziteboard offer virtual whiteboards where you and your student can write, draw, or collaborate in real-time.
• File Sharing and Cloud Storage: Use Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive to share resources like lesson plans, notes, and homework assignments.
• Scheduling and Invoicing Tools: To manage bookings and payments, consider tools like Calendly for scheduling sessions and PayPal or Stripe for invoicing and payments.

5. Set Your Rates

Pricing is one of the most critical aspects of remote tutoring. When setting your rates, consider:

• Your Experience: If you’re just starting out, you may need to offer competitive rates to attract students. As you gain experience, you can gradually increase your fees.
• Market Rates: Research what other tutors in your field are charging on platforms like Wyzant or Preply. Knowing the market rate will help you stay competitive.
• Your Niche: Specialized subjects, like advanced math or coding, often command higher fees compared to general subjects.

Be transparent with your pricing and payment policies to avoid confusion later.

6. Create Engaging and Personalized Lessons

One of the biggest advantages of remote tutoring is the ability to create personalized lessons for your students. Here’s how to do it effectively:

• Assess Your Student’s Needs: Start each new tutoring relationship with a diagnostic session. Ask the student about their goals, struggles, and learning preferences. This will help you tailor your lessons to their specific needs.
• Use a Variety of Resources: Incorporate multimedia elements like videos, quizzes, and interactive exercises to keep students engaged. For example, use platforms like Kahoot or Quizlet for fun assessments.
• Break Down Concepts: Use clear explanations and break down complex topics into smaller, understandable parts. Encourage students to ask questions and provide real-time feedback.

7. Promote Your Services

If you’re not using a dedicated tutoring platform, you’ll need to market your services to attract students. Here are some strategies to get started:

• Social Media: Promote your tutoring business on platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook. Use these platforms to showcase your expertise by sharing helpful tips, videos, or testimonials.
• Word of Mouth: Ask satisfied students to refer you to others. Offering referral discounts can help motivate students to spread the word.
• SEO and Content Marketing: If you have your own website, use search engine optimization (SEO) to make sure people can find your services online. You can also write blog posts or create YouTube videos that establish your authority in your niche.

8. Communicate Effectively and Build Relationships

Effective communication is key to successful tutoring, especially in a remote setting. Here’s how to keep your communication strong:

• Regular Feedback: Provide constructive feedback after each session to show your students their progress and areas for improvement.
• Encourage Questions: Make sure your students feel comfortable asking questions. Create an environment where curiosity is welcomed.
• Follow Up: Between sessions, check in with students to see how they’re progressing and if they need extra help.

Building strong relationships with your students and their parents (if tutoring younger students) is crucial for long-term success. Positive relationships often lead to recurring business and referrals.

9. Track Progress and Adapt Lessons

It's important to track your students' progress over time. Here's how:

• Set Clear Goals: Establish specific learning objectives and milestones at the beginning of the tutoring relationship.
• Track Improvements: Use progress reports or assessments to measure how much the student is improving. Share this information with students (or their parents) regularly.
• Adapt Lessons: Be flexible. If a particular approach isn't working, don't hesitate to adjust your teaching methods to better suit the student's learning style.

Conclusion

Remote tutoring is an excellent way to reach students from all around the world while working on your own schedule. With the right tools, clear communication, and personalized lessons, you can offer valuable educational support that helps students reach their academic or personal learning goals. Whether you’re tutoring full-time or part-time, remote tutoring can be a rewarding and flexible career.

By following these steps, you can build a successful remote tutoring business and make a positive impact on students' lives, all from the comfort of your own home.

Try Schemon out now free and start tutoring online.