Successful Communication Strategies for the Education Sector
The market is currently undergoing digital transformation and communication from the educational sectors around the world are facing several challenges. It is absolutely vital to know what the message is, who it is for and what medium is the most appropriate to deliver that message especially due to the increase in digital platforms. A smooth function communication system ensures that students, parents, staff and administration are connected and there is no gap in the dispersal of information. Let’s take a look at some of the communication strategies in the education sector;
1. Local Press
There is always some sort of local or community-based media companies that many educational institutions use to build strong relations with the public. For example, thousands of students from around the world study in the United States and the media is a channel which institutions use to showcase diversity and acceptance of different cultures.
2. Alumni Promotion and Testimonials
Alumni are a smart medium of media coverage educational institutions can use. Their accomplishments and work contribute to the overall reputation of the institute and also builds trust in future prospects. Maintaining relations with alumni can often be tricky but many institutions use magazines, articles and press coverage to improve connection with them. The display of important achievements also shows that the others can also potentially achieve greatness.
3. Promotion of Research
The press finds research as one of the most popular topics to publish. Schools and universities have their own lines of research; however, the marketing team can always collaborate with faculties for different angles of research and current trends. Plus, the communication department must also work on promoting the research work effectively which includes finding the right medium as well as identifying journalists. Finally, the result of the campaigns needs to be shared with the faculty and their work needs to be celebrated and valued accordingly.
4. React to Trending Topics
Following the current trends and real-time marketing is a smart strategy to promote and get attention of the audience. By reacting to the social buzz, colleges and schools can create a buzz of their own especially in inter sports events and competitions or other events.
5. Brag About Your Faculty
Many professors and teachers are recognized for their competence in specific field and topics, and are often given the opportunity to speak or give their input on current events. Many schools and colleges have even created their own blog, where professors can give their insights, answer questions and post relevant research as well. These are the article the press takes up and use the best topics to build publicity for a win-win scenario.
6. Targeted Social Media Marketing Communication
It is a face that social media accounts of schools and colleges are not only followed by current students and parents but also alumni, professors, other schools and colleges, prospective students and sponsored companies as well in some cases. This means that a diverse audience is opted-in to hear from you so you need to cater to everyone. They can segment their audience into groups and attend each group independently to build on a smart social media strategy for growth.
7. Set up Automated Security alerts in case of crisis
Security is one of the prime concerns of any public place especially a school or college whether it’s their online security or physical one. The education sector is not immune to security threats and crises and these crises can be caused by many factors. One of the most trending communication trends is Programmable SMS, using which schools and colleges, can send out real-time notifications and alerts by connecting their systems with a quality mass texting service. It is the same way industries like banks and restaurants send you notifications and transaction receipts using bulk texting following your activity.