In today’s digital landscape, a strong online presence is crucial for schools and universities looking to increase their student admissions. Leveraging social media, digital advertising, and effective public relations can make a significant difference.
Here’s how you can use these strategies to enhance your institution’s visibility and attract more applicants:
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Enhance Your Website Experience
Your website is often the first point of contact for many prospective students and their parents, so it’s essential to ensure your site is user-friendly and engaging. Clear calls-to-action (CTAs) and an intuitive design are crucial for driving applications. If applications are open, use prominent pop-ups and banners to direct users to the application page. A well-optimised website can turn visitors into applicants, making it a vital component of your education digital marketing strategy.
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Utilise Digital Advertising to Expand Your Reach
Digital advertising is an effective way to reach potential applicants who are outside your current audience, whether you’re a private or public school, college or university. By targeting ads based on factors such as location, age, and interests, you can attract individuals who are most likely to be interested in your institution. Platforms such as Google, LinkedIn, and Spotify offer targeted advertising options. A strategic digital advertising campaign can increase both your visibility and applicant numbers, providing a significant boost to your student admissions efforts
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Leverage Social Media for Engagement
An effective social media strategy is crucial for boosting student admissions. Regularly updating your profiles with relevant content such as news, events, and institution highlights – helps maintain engagement. Incorporate clear calls-to-action (CTAs) that direct prospective students to your admissions pages. Promoting open days, showcasing student and faculty achievements, and sharing exciting developments can all persuade prospects to consider your institution. Additionally, actively engaging with your audience through comments, messages, and interactive posts fosters a strong community and enhances your institution’s appeal.
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Incorporate Professional Video Content
High-quality video content can be a game-changer for your student admissions strategy. Create professional videos that showcase your campus, academic programmes, and student life. These videos can be featured on your website, social media channels, and digital advertising campaigns. Engaging visuals and testimonials offer prospective students a vivid glimpse into life at your institution, making it a valuable tool in your education PR efforts.
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Ensure Consistency Across Your Marketing Channels
A cohesive approach to your marketing efforts is essential. Ensure that your PR efforts, digital advertising, and social media strategies work together seamlessly. For instance, if you’re running a digital ad campaign, make sure the landing page on your website aligns with the ad’s message and provides clear instructions for the next steps. Consistent branding and messaging across all platforms will create a unified experience for prospective students.
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Seek Expertise from Education Specialists
If you need help enhancing your website, producing high-quality videos, or running effective digital advertising campaigns, consider consulting with a specialist education PR firm or higher education digital marketing experts. At PLMR, we can provide valuable insights and services tailored to your institution’s needs, helping you to effectively manage your public relations and marketing efforts.
By implementing these strategies and focusing on a strong online presence, your school or university can significantly boost its applicant numbers and stand out in a competitive landscape. For assistance with digital marketing, video production, or public relations, get in touch with our expert team through the contact us page. The more effort you invest in your online presence, the greater the interest you’ll attract to your institution.
