How to Be a Successful Online Tutor

With a quarter of parents having hired a traditional tutor for their children at some point, there is huge potential demand for online tutoring. Although what is going to set you apart online that a tutor cannot do face to face? Well for a start to be a successful tutor you have to be prepared to work at any time of the day or night, you will have to fully commit to provide the student the best education around. Children who sign up with e-tutors watch live broadcasts using video-conferencing or Skype, an on-line telephone/video service. The interactive technology allows students to hear and see their teacher, and to ask questions, while both use a “whiteboard”, like a shared blackboard. With most online tutors charging £15-£27, you are a cheaper option than the traditional tutor and parents are always attracted to cheaper prices, but they also want quality, this is where you come in. If you are teaching a subject you have not got much knowledge on then simply, cook it, plate it up and digest it as quickly as possible.

One of the keys to online tutoring is, not necessarily knowing the answers; but being able to find them quickly and easily. Being a good researcher is key! This will enable you to teach the students to find their own answers as you guide them through different articles. So, do not fret if you don't remember why World War I began - you are not expected to be Encyclopedia Britannica, but, if you can find an article on the reasons quickly, you are one step closer to being a good online tutor.

Becoming a popular online tutor (one requested by the students) takes time and good judgement. The time you spend watching your inbox to jump on open hours is consuming; but once you have a set schedule you are happy with, that time will pay off and you can focus solely on your permanent students. As far as good judgment, this can be a tricky line to walk. Students enjoy talking and getting a tutor' s background or insight into personal issues. A good online tutor can quickly and smoothly re-direct the student back to the work at hand. Tutors are educators, not peers. But, be sure that you do not make the student feel embarrassed or put down for asking questions.