#054 - Russell discusses his work and changing landscape of independent schools, including the consolidation of schools, the professionalisation of roles within schools, and the increased unpredictability of the sector. He highlights the differences between schools in the UK and schools in the Middle East, emphasising the diversity and energy found in international schools. Russell also discusses the joys and challenges of running his own business and the reasons behind starting it. He also talks about his passion for learning Arabic and the importance of language in understanding different cultures.

Keywords

RS Academics, schools, appointments, marketing, governance, diversity and inclusion, fundraising, independent schools, Middle East, international schools, running a business, starting a business, learning Arabic, language and culture, personal expression, clothing and power dynamics

Links:

www.rsacademics.com

www.linkedin.com/in/russell-speirs-27904916/

Contact me:

www.thebonjouragency.com

simon@thebonjouragency.com

#053 - Nicola Lutz, founder of No Fluff, talks about sales & marketing in the education sector. They discuss the challenges faced by Admissions teams in converting leads, the importance of professional sales skills in schools, and the need for follow-up and engagement with prospective families. Nicola also shares insights from the No Fluff Fest event, which focuses on lead generation and sales techniques for schools. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for a more strategic and proactive approach to admissions and marketing in the education sector.

Keywords

sales, marketing, education sector, admissions, lead generation, follow-up, engagement, No Fluff Fest

Takeaways

• Admissions teams in schools often face challenges in converting leads due to a lack of professional sales skills and support.
• There is a need for a more strategic and proactive approach to admissions and marketing in the education sector.
• Follow-up and engagement with prospective families are crucial in the admissions process, from the initial inquiry to the offer acceptance stage.
• No Fluff Fest is an event that focuses on lead generation and sales techniques for schools, providing valuable insights and ideas for increasing admissions.

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-lutz/

Contact me:

www.thebonjouragency.com

simon@thebonjouragency.com

#051 - Sophy Walker discusses her recent life changes including leaving her job at Royal Hospital School, moving houses and starting her own business called Marketing 4 Success. She shares her experiences with challenges in the workplace, the importance of mental health support and the process of making big decisions. Sophy also talks about her retirement plans and her desire to have a property abroad.

Keywords

life changes, job transition, moving houses, starting a business, challenges in the workplace, mental health support, making big decisions, retirement plans, property abroad, birthday celebration

Takeaways

• Life changes, such as leaving a job and moving houses, can be challenging but also provide opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Mental health support is crucial in the workplace, and seeking help can make a significant difference in navigating difficult situations.
• Making big decisions requires careful consideration of various factors, including risks, expenses, and the impact on family members.
• Retirement planning is important, and it's essential to consider factors such as financial stability, desired lifestyle, and personal goals.
• Having a property abroad can provide opportunities for travel, cultural experiences, and a sense of adventure.
• Celebrating milestones, such as birthdays, can be done in various ways, from low-key gatherings to larger celebrations.

Links:

www.m4success.org

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophyzwalker/

Contact me:

www.thebonjouragency.com

simon@thebonjouragency.com