Switching careers can be a daunting task, but in Nashville, with its vibrant community of students, professionals, and educators, the rise of online tutoring jobs offers a unique opportunity for a career shift. Whether you’re in Music Row, East Nashville, or Brentwood, online tutoring can help you make the transition with flexibility and stability. But as you navigate this new path, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here’s a guide to the do’s and don’ts for career switchers looking to dive into online tutoring.

Do: Research your strengths and expertise

Before jumping into the world of online tutoring, take a moment to assess your skills and experience. Whether you have a background in English, math, science, or even music, it’s important to know what you’re good at and what you can teach confidently.
Example: If you’ve worked in the music industry and have a passion for teaching guitar or voice lessons, online tutoring platforms can help you connect with students who want to learn these skills from home, especially in a music-rich city like Nashville.

Don’t: Jump into everything at once

It’s tempting to want to offer every subject you know, especially when you’re just starting. But taking on too many subjects or age groups at once can be overwhelming, especially if you’re switching from a non-teaching career.
Example: If you’re coming from a corporate job in Brentwood, you may want to start by teaching a specific subject, like business communication or writing, before branching out to other areas. Specializing initially will allow you to focus your efforts and build your confidence.

Do: Take advantage of flexible hours

One of the best parts about online tutoring jobs is the flexibility they offer. In Nashville, where schedules can be packed with work, commuting, and family responsibilities, remote tutoring allows you to set your own hours.
Example: If you’re transitioning from a full-time job in education or a service industry role, you can start by tutoring part-time in the evenings or on weekends, allowing you to ease into your new career at a comfortable pace.

Don’t: Underestimate the time it takes to build your reputation

It’s easy to assume that once you sign up for a tutoring platform, students will come pouring in. But like any other career shift, building a reputation takes time and effort. Online tutoring isn’t an overnight success.
Example: If you’re transitioning from a marketing career in downtown Nashville, don’t expect immediate results. Consistently offering quality lessons, gathering positive reviews, and refining your teaching methods will help you gain student trust over time.

Do: Utilize online tutoring platforms for structure and support

Since you’re switching careers, it’s essential to have the right tools and support in place. Platforms like Wiingy offer guidance, from lesson planning to student management, making it easier to get started.
Example: If you’re new to teaching, platforms like Wiingy offer resources such as demo lesson prep, teaching materials, and student scheduling. This support ensures you can focus on delivering quality lessons without getting overwhelmed by administrative tasks.

Don’t: Ignore the importance of ongoing learning

Even if you’re experienced in the field, online tutoring is different from traditional teaching. Don’t forget to invest in your professional development. Stay updated with the latest teaching methods, tech tools, and educational trends to remain competitive.
Example: If you’re coming from a financial services background and are teaching finance or accounting, consider taking online courses to refine your teaching approach or brush up on new industry developments to stay relevant.

Do: Establish clear communication with students

Whether you're teaching SAT prep to high school students in Franklin or offering language lessons to adults in Midtown, communication is key. Make sure your students know your availability, lesson structure, and expectations upfront.
Example: If you’re working with a college student at Vanderbilt University, be sure to discuss their learning goals and study habits. Establishing these boundaries early will create a smoother and more productive tutoring experience.

Don’t: Forget to market yourself

Starting a new career as a tutor means you need to get the word out about your services. Don’t rely solely on the tutoring platform to bring you students. Market your tutoring services locally and online to reach a wider audience.
Example: Use your social media presence or network in local communities like East Nashville or The Gulch to promote your online tutoring services. You can also connect with local schools like Hume-Fogg High School or Montgomery Bell Academy for possible referrals.

Do: Make use of reviews and testimonials

The best way to grow your tutoring business is through word of mouth. As you start teaching more students, ask for feedback and testimonials that will help build your credibility and attract more clients.
Example: Whether you’re tutoring high school students at Ensworth School or college students at Belmont University, positive reviews from satisfied students will help you establish trust within the Nashville community.

Don’t: Forget to manage your time and balance

When you’re starting a new career, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. However, be careful not to overcommit. Balance is key to making the career switch work in the long run.
Example: If you’re balancing tutoring with a full-time job or family responsibilities, set realistic goals. You can always increase your hours as you feel more comfortable, but don’t overwhelm yourself right from the start.