The Business Builder Bulletin: The Mum Who Called in a Panic at 9pm

Hello friends,

This week’s message comes straight from a moment that shook me, just a few nights ago.

It was 9pm. I was just about to switch off for the evening when my phone rang.

A mum I hadn’t spoken to in a while. Breathless. Panicked.
“Graeme, I know it’s late… but my son’s got his English GCSE in two days and he’s just frozen. He doesn’t think he can do it. We’ve left it too late. Is there anything you can do?”

My first instinct was to say no.
But then I paused.

This wasn’t just about English.
It was about confidence.
And trust.
And what happens when a family realises—too late—that exams don’t wait for anyone.

✏️ What This Means for Tuition Business Owners

Let’s be real—these calls happen all the time.
And if they haven’t happened to you yet, they will.

Here’s what I took away from it (and what might help you too):

💡 1. We’re Not Just Tutors. We’re First Responders for Education.

When panic sets in, we’re the people parents call. Not school. Not the teacher. Us.

That’s a huge responsibility—and a huge opportunity.

🔧 Business Builder Tip: Build in emergency session pricing or “exam rescue” sessions in May/June. Create a process for last-minute support. People will pay for peace of mind.

🧭 2. Parents Don’t Just Want Results—They Want Reassurance

The mum who called didn’t ask me for grades.
She asked me if her son was going to be OK.

When you build your messaging, don’t just talk about progress.
Talk about calm. Confidence. Feeling prepared.

📣 Messaging Shift: Instead of “We’ll help your child get a grade 6,” try
“We help your child walk into the exam room with their head held high.”

🗓️ 3. Don’t Wait for the Panic—Educate in Advance

This whole call could have been avoided with better communication earlier.
We need to train our parents as much as we teach their children.

📬 Quick Action:
Send out a “6 Weeks to Exams” checklist to all parents in April next year. Help them see what early support looks like.

🔁 Final Thoughts: From Firefighting to Future-Proofing

I helped that family—just about.
We did a crash session.
His confidence lifted.
He walked into that exam two days later a different boy.

But here’s the truth: your business will grow faster when you stop being reactive and start being proactive.

So this week, take five minutes and ask yourself:
✅ How do I prepare families before they panic?
✅ What do I offer in those emergency moments?
✅ And how can I position my business as the go-to place for trust, not just tuition?

You’ve got this.
Let’s build businesses that teach, guide, and reassure.

Until next week,
Graeme
Chorlton Tuition Centre | Business Coaching for Tuition Business Owners