First day, first class. What to talk about?

So we've all had our own share of experiences about "first day of classes". For some newbie tutors, this often causes stress and anxiety. Questions like "what should we talk about?", "how do I start?" or "what if he/she really can't understand a word I say?" would be running through your mind.  But the first meeting should be anything but stressful.

When you first meet your student, think of it as meeting a new friend. Introduce yourself and also take time to get to know your student. At times when we feel nervous, we tend to just blabber away so as to avoid any awkward silence. As much as it is tempting to do so, this should be avoided at all times. You are in the position to help your students improve their English communication skills, you're not there for them to just listen to. Conversations should always be a two-way street. Talk and share, and learn to listen too.  

After greetings and introductions are done, what next? Unless you are given instructions to teach a certain sample lesson, you can always choose an interesting topic for discussion. Don't forget that some points should be taken into consideration when choosing a certain topic. First of all find out what your student's level is. Is he/she beginner, intermediate or advanced? Second, how old is your student? And finally, what is your student's nationality? Not all topics can be openly discussed by everyone. Use these as guides for choosing topics in the Internet. Remember, it's as easy as pie to search Google for interesting topics but not all search results can be suitable for your student's age, level and nationality. 

Let me share how I usually handle first meetings. The general questions I ask are: 

• Can you tell me 10 random things about yourself? (Aside from your age, your school/office and what you do)
• Why do you want to study English? (This is a very common question, I assume everyone has asked this several times already but it's still a hit)
• How do you normally spend your free time or what do you usually do during weekends?
• Do you have any sport?
• What's your favorite activity?
• Any recent movie's you've seen/books you've read? How was it?

The list could be endless just don't forget to be creative with your follow-up questions. It would be a big help if you try and find out your student's interests and you can focus on discussing that. One tip I always share with inexperienced ESL tutors is to make a list of general questions to ask or topics to talk about so that you won't run out of things to say. 

I hope I have somehow enlightened newbie tutors everywhere. You are all welcome to comment and share your own first meeting experiences. I'd love to hear from fellow ESL tutors. Cheers to us all!