Getting an unexpected call from School Match Pro can be jarring. You may wonder why they’re reaching out if you didn’t sign up for their services. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: School Match Pro likely obtained your contact information from a public database and is trying to sell their college admissions service.
Feel free to politely decline if you’re not interested.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore in detail why School Match Pro may be calling you, what you can expect during the call, tips for handling the call professionally, and alternative college planning resources you can consider if this service isn’t a good fit.
Where School Match Pro Got Your Contact Information
Have you ever wondered how School Match Pro got your contact information out of the blue? Well, there are a few possible ways they could have acquired it. Let’s take a closer look:
Purchased Leads from Third-Party Vendors
One common method that companies like School Match Pro use to obtain contact information is by purchasing leads from third-party vendors. These vendors specialize in collecting and selling consumer data, including phone numbers and email addresses.
So, if you’ve ever entered your information on a website or filled out a form online, there’s a chance that your details were sold to School Match Pro without your knowledge.
Public Databases Like Whitepages.com
Another way School Match Pro might have found your contact information is through public databases. Websites like Whitepages.com compile public records and make them available to anyone who searches for them.
This means that your phone number and address could be easily accessible to companies like School Match Pro. While this may seem intrusive, it’s legal as long as the information is publicly available.
Your High School May Have Provided Your Data
Believe it or not, your own high school may have provided your contact information to School Match Pro. Schools often partner with various organizations to provide students with resources and information about colleges and universities.
In these cases, the school may share student contact information with companies like School Match Pro to facilitate the college application process. While this may be done with good intentions, it’s important to be aware of how your information is being used.
It’s worth noting that these are just a few possible ways School Match Pro could have obtained your contact information. The company may utilize other methods as well. If you’re concerned about your privacy, it’s always a good idea to read the privacy policies of any websites you interact with and be cautious about sharing your personal information online.
What to Expect During a Sales Call from School Match Pro
Receiving a sales call from School Match Pro can be a surprising experience, especially if you weren’t expecting it. However, it’s important to understand that their goal is to provide you with valuable information and assistance in finding the right college for you.
Here’s what you can expect during a sales call from School Match Pro:
Introduction Explaining Why They’re Calling
When School Match Pro calls you out of the blue, their first priority is to introduce themselves and explain the purpose of their call. They will likely start by expressing their interest in helping you navigate the college admissions process and finding the best fit for your academic and personal goals.
This introduction is an opportunity for you to ask any initial questions or express any concerns you may have.
Questions About Your College Plans and Priorities
During the call, a representative from School Match Pro will likely ask you a series of questions about your college plans and priorities. These questions are designed to gather information about your academic interests, extracurricular activities, career goals, and any specific preferences you may have for a college.
By understanding your unique needs and aspirations, School Match Pro can provide personalized recommendations and guidance.
It’s important to be open and honest when answering these questions, as the more information you provide, the better School Match Pro can tailor their services to your specific needs. Remember, they are there to assist you in making informed decisions about your future.
Overview of Their Admissions Service and Fees
As the call progresses, the representative from School Match Pro will provide an overview of their admissions services and associated fees. They will explain the different levels of assistance they offer, such as college search assistance, application support, and essay editing.
They may also discuss the benefits of working with their experienced team of admissions professionals.
During this part of the call, it’s important to ask any questions you may have about their services, pricing structure, or any guarantees they offer. Don’t hesitate to inquire about their track record and success rate in helping students gain admission to their top-choice colleges.
It’s essential to have a clear understanding of what School Match Pro can provide and how it aligns with your needs and expectations.
Remember, School Match Pro is just one resource among many when it comes to the college admissions process. It’s always a good idea to do your own research, read reviews, and seek advice from trusted sources before making any decisions.
If you’re interested in learning more about School Match Pro, you can visit their official website at www.schoolmatchpro.com.
How to Handle the Call Professionally
Let Them Finish Their Pitch Before Responding
When the School Match Pro representative calls you out of the blue, it’s important to give them the opportunity to present their pitch. It can be tempting to interrupt or immediately reject their offer, but it’s best to let them finish speaking.
This will allow you to fully understand what they are offering and make an informed decision. Plus, interrupting them may come off as rude or unprofessional. So, sit back, listen, and give them a chance to explain their services.
Be Upfront If You’re Not Interested in Their Services
If, after hearing the School Match Pro representative’s pitch, you realize that their services are not something you’re interested in, it’s important to be upfront and honest about it. Don’t waste their time or yours by leading them on or stringing them along.
Politely thank them for their offer and let them know that it’s not a good fit for you. Being transparent about your lack of interest will save both parties valuable time and energy.
Provide Honest Feedback About Why It’s Not a Fit
If you decide to decline School Match Pro’s services, it can be helpful to provide them with honest feedback about why it’s not a fit for you. This feedback can be valuable for them to improve their pitch or better understand their target audience.
However, it’s important to offer constructive criticism rather than being overly critical. Remember, they are just doing their job, and providing helpful feedback can benefit both parties in the long run.
Remember, staying professional and respectful throughout the call is crucial. Even if you’re not interested in School Match Pro’s services, maintaining a polite and professional demeanor will leave a positive impression.
Who knows, they may have other offerings in the future that could be of interest to you. So, handle the call with grace and professionalism, and you’ll be on your way to building a strong reputation in the education community.
Alternative College Planning Resources to Consider
When it comes to planning for college, students and their families often rely on their high school guidance counselors for assistance. While guidance counselors can be a valuable resource, there are also other options to consider.
Here are a few alternative college planning resources that can provide additional support and guidance.
Your High School Guidance Counselor
Your high school guidance counselor is a great place to start when it comes to college planning. They have a wealth of knowledge about the college application process, financial aid options, and can provide personalized guidance based on your individual needs and goals.
They can help you explore different colleges and majors, assist with creating a college list, and provide valuable insight into the admissions process.
Independent College Consultants
If you’re looking for more personalized and in-depth guidance, an independent college consultant can be a valuable resource. These professionals specialize in helping students navigate the college admissions process.
They can provide assistance with creating a college list, developing a strong application strategy, and even help with essay writing and interview preparation. Independent college consultants often have extensive experience and knowledge of a wide range of colleges and can provide valuable insights and advice.
Online Resources Like College Board and Niche
Another alternative to consider is utilizing online resources like College Board and Niche. These websites offer a wealth of information about colleges, including admissions requirements, academic programs, and student reviews.
College Board also provides tools like the SAT and ACT practice tests, scholarship search engines, and financial aid calculators. Niche offers rankings and reviews of colleges and universities based on various factors such as academics, campus life, and diversity.
These resources can be a great starting point for researching different colleges and gathering information.
Ultimately, the college planning process is unique to each individual, and it’s important to find the resources and support that work best for you. Whether you choose to rely on your high school guidance counselor, seek guidance from an independent college consultant, or utilize online resources, remember that there are various options available to help you navigate the college admissions journey.
Conclusion
Getting cold calls from college admissions companies like School Match Pro can be annoying, but handling them calmly and professionally is key. Let them speak, decline politely if uninterested, and move on.
Rest assured your contact information being shared is normal, and there are plenty of alternative planning resources if their services don’t fit your needs and budget.
