Both parents and teachers should prepare in advance of parent-teacher interviews. Teachers should prepare materials related to the student including a copy of her report card, samples of her work and a list of comments and concerns to bring up with her parents. Parents need to make a list of questions and concerns they have about their child's grades, school work and social behavior at school. Parents should also ask their child if she has had any experiences or problems that need to be addressed with the teacher.
Parents will get the most out of their conference if they are active participants rather than just listening to what the teacher has to say. Go in with a positive attitude and let the teacher know that you are her ally. Stick to important matters regarding your child rather than veering off course and engaging in casual chit-chat, as your time with the teacher is limited. Above all, listen impartially to what the teacher has to say and try not to get defensive on your child's behalf. Take notes and address any concerns or discrepancies with your child after you get home.
Go into the conference with the attitude that you and the parents are equals and that you are both working in the best interests of the student. Try not to act too authoritative or you may make the parents feel nervous or defensive. Start by making a positive comment about the student, even if it's about her personality or social skills rather than her academic work. Listen to what the parents say and answer their questions. Take notes during your conversation and follow up on any unresolved issues that come up during the interview.
Inevitably, there may be some difficulties, either with parents who refuse to believe that their child is struggling or with teachers who are unwilling to listen to parental concerns. Teachers dealing with difficult parents should provide documentation of the student's disciplinary or academic issues as backup during the conference. Partnering with the principal is also a good idea if you're concerned that the parents don't trust your opinion. On the other side, parents who don't think that a teacher is taking an interest in their child or listening to questions may also seek help from the principal to mediate the conference.