Study the vocabulary beforehand. If you're brand new to Japanese, look up a "japanese pronunciation" video and then get at the vocabulary in lesson 1 of your textbook. Learn to use anki and practice the vocabulary both Japanese to english and english to Japanese. Learn all the vocabulary for that lesson before you even take the private lesson. And if you're starting in the middle of a textbook, Learn all vocabulary leading up to where you are. If the teacher uses their own materials, ask about a vocabulary list beforehand. Never let the vocabulary be new to you in your lesson and I'd say honestly have it completely down pat before even scheduling the lesson. This will help things go so much smoother and there will be less time wasted.
by GreattFriend