Lina Del Roble started her career as a Spanish language TV reporter, became a Spanish-English translator when her daughter was born, and segued to bilingual copywriting to fund her daughter’s undergraduate degree. Today Lina owns Spanish Tutoring, Copywriting & Educational Services, combining the two things she loves most—Spanish language and people. “Lawyers, teachers, fisherman, middle schoolers—teaching Spanish has always been such an adventure, and with people from all walks of life,” Lina says. Here are the Top Pro’s tips for making your adventure work—and how to do it on Thumbtack.
How did you start your language tutoring business?
I moved to San Francisco from Mexico City to work in advertising. Once my daughter finished college (and I finished paying her tuition), I was ready for a new challenge. I’ve always been a proponent of arts and multicultural learning, and used to teach in my spare time outside of work. Starting a tutoring service just made sense as my next step.
How long have you been on teaching and how long on Thumbtack?
I’ve been working with Spanish language education my whole life. I can’t believe it, but next month I’ll hit my fourth year of teaching Spanish on Thumbtack.
What’s most exciting about owning your own business?
I get students from all walks of life — and as much as they learn from me, I learn from them. My father was a real people person and I inherited the same thing.
What goes into a great Thumbtack headshot?
My headshot makes me look trustworthy. I’m a friendly person so I want my image to welcome customers to my profile.
What’s included in a strong Thumbtack profile?
My experience in education and Spanish communication is really diverse and I want my customers to know what I bring to the table. I focus on my philosophy and background to explain to customers why my service stands out from others.
Any tips for asking customers for reviews?
I find that some reviews come naturally and some you have to ask for. When I started using Thumbtack I figured customers would automatically know to review me. But sometimes people don’t have the time or don’t know how important it actually is.
I tend to wait a while before asking someone to review me. I’ll wait months even. I want to build the relationship first and then ask for the review. Once they’ve written something I send a thank you message or call them.
