Afleveringen

  • In the latest Education Marketing Leader podcast episode, I spoke with Megan Smedley, Director of Public Relations and Alumni Engagement at Maysville Community and Technical College and Assistant Director for District 2 at the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations.

    Megan's journey from a local reporter to comms leader in education offers valuable lessons for higher education marketers.

    "Student success stories are my bread and butter because they are so powerful, not just for our community and college but for me as an individual," says Megan.

    That's why this episode focused on leveraging student stories in higher education marketing.

    Key Takeaways for Higher Ed Marketers:

    Leverage Authentic Stories

    Genuine, relatable student success stories can significantly boost your institution's appeal and resonate deeply with prospective students.

    Highlight Overcoming Adversity

    Stories of students overcoming challenges, like addiction or financial hardship, inspire and motivate others facing similar situations.

    Use Student Testimonials

    Student testimonials act as powerful endorsements of your institution, providing social proof and enhancing credibility.

    Tailor Stories to Your Audience

    Customize student stories to fit the interests and needs of your target audience, ensuring they are impactful and relevant.

    For more about Megan's strategies and success stories, connect with her on LinkedIn or listen to the full episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast.

    For more insights, tune into the full episode and follow Megan on LinkedIn.

    ๐ŸŒŸ If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. ๐Ÿ™

    Until next time. โœŒ๏ธ

  • My latest guest on the Education Marketing Leader podcast was Jordan Burleson, VP of Digital Advertising at Beacon Technologies.

    Jordan shared some critical insights on digital advertising tailored for higher education institutions.

    Here are the key takeaways:

    ๐๐ž๐ซ๐ฌ๐จ๐ง๐š๐ฅ๐ข๐ณ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐ข๐ฌ ๐Š๐ž๐ฒ

    Jordan emphasized that many higher ed institutions struggle with delivering personalized experiences.

    ๐Ÿ”ธ Meet students where they are.

    ๐Ÿ”ธ Cater to different stages (undergrad, graduate programs).

    ๐Ÿ”ธ Avoid one-size-fits-all messaging.

    ๐๐ฎ๐๐ ๐ž๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐Ÿ๐จ๐ซ ๐ˆ๐ฆ๐ฉ๐š๐œ๐ญ

    Jordan provided realistic budget suggestions:

    ๐Ÿ’ฐ Comprehensive university advertising: $15,000/month.

    ๐Ÿ’ฐ Individual programs: Minimum $2,500/month.

    ๐„๐Ÿ๐Ÿ๐ž๐œ๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ž ๐€๐๐ฏ๐ž๐ซ๐ญ๐ข๐ฌ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐Œ๐ข๐ฑ

    Jordan highlighted the most effective channels:

    ๐Ÿ”น Google Ads: Paid search and remarketing are essential.

    ๐Ÿ”น Social Media: Platforms like Meta and TikTok can complement but shouldn't be the sole focus.

    ๐‹๐š๐ง๐๐ข๐ง๐  ๐๐š๐ ๐ž๐ฌ ๐Œ๐š๐ญ๐ญ๐ž๐ซ

    A common pitfall is landing pages lacking clear CTAs:

    โ˜‘ Add options like "Request Information" alongside "Apply Now."

    โ˜‘ Cater to different stages of the student journey.

    ๐Œ๐ž๐š๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐’๐ฎ๐œ๐œ๐ž๐ฌ๐ฌ

    Focus on tracking the right conversions:

    ๐Ÿ“ˆ Key Metrics: Conversion rates, cost per conversion, click-through rates.

    ๐Ÿ“‰ Beware of Misleading Metrics: High session durations without conversions can be deceptive.

    ๐€.๐ˆ. ๐ข๐ง ๐€๐๐ฏ๐ž๐ซ๐ญ๐ข๐ฌ๐ข๐ง๐ 

    Jordan's take on A.I.:

    ๐Ÿค– Use A.I. for generating ideas and optimizing ad copy.

    ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ”ง ๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ”ง Keep the human touch for final decision-making and strategy implementation.

    ๐“๐ซ๐ž๐ง๐๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ ๐–๐š๐ญ๐œ๐ก

    โœ User-Generated Content: Engage students to create authentic content.

    ๐Ÿ“น Short-Form Videos: Leverage platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts.

    If you're in higher-ed marketing, these insights from Jordan are gold. ๐Ÿฅ‡

    For a deeper dive, listen to the full episode and connect with Jordan on LinkedIn for more expert advice on digital advertising in higher ed.

    Want more episodes like this?

    Follow the Education Marketing Leader podcast for the latest tips and strategies in higher-ed marketing.

    Until next time. โœŒ

    P.S. Have you implemented any of these strategies in your digital advertising? Share your experiences in the comments!

    #Marketing #Highereducation #HigherEdMarketing #DigitalAdvertising #EducationMarketingLeader

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  • "You need people who want to be on your campus, who want to work in higher education, and who will help your culture grow."

    In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I had a powerful conversation with Eddie Francis, Principal of Edify Ventures, LLC, and host of "I Wanna Work There."

    We dove deep into employer branding, a crucial element for attracting and retaining top talent in higher education.

    Here are the highlights:

    ๐ŸŽฏ Importance of Purpose: Eddie emphasized the value of purpose-driven work environments where employees feel their contributions matter.

    "Great employees do attract great students," says Eddie.

    ๐Ÿ’ผ Development Programs: Effective mentorship and talent development programs are crucial. Conferences and micro-credentials can boost staff motivation and growth.

    ๐Ÿ›  Internal Alignment: Aligning HR, marketing, and institutional effectiveness is the first step toward creating a cohesive employer brand. This alignment ensures a unified talent attraction, experience, and retention approach.

    ๐Ÿ’ฌ Storytelling: Highlighting faculty and staff stories can significantly enhance your institution's appeal. Authentic narratives resonate and build a positive campus culture.

    ๐Ÿ›ก Psychological Safety: Addressing and ensuring psychological safety is vital, especially with the emerging Gen Z workforce. A toxic environment can severely damage your employer's brand.

    For more insights, tune into the full episode and follow Eddie on LinkedIn.

    ๐ŸŒŸ If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. ๐Ÿ™

    Until next time. โœŒ

    #HigherEducation #Marketing #HigherEdMarketing #EmployerBranding #EducationMarketingLeader #Podcasting #TalentManagement #CampusCulture

  • In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I spoke with Cheryl Temple, Director of Communications & Financial Aid at Stark College & Seminary.

    Cheryl shared her strategies for reaching non-traditional students and managing marketing on a tight budget.

    Here's what you'll learn from the episode:

    Serving Non-Traditional Students

    Discover how Stark attracts and supports a diverse age range of students, with an average age of 40.

    Learn about the unique challenges and solutions in serving an underserved educational area in South Texas.

    Effective Marketing Strategies

    Making Students the Hero: Understand how highlighting student success stories can inspire prospective students and build trust.

    Local Partnerships: Learn how partnering with local organizations helps Stark effectively reach its target demographic and build genuine community relationships.

    Flexible and Affordable Education

    Find out how Stark offers high-flex courses that allow students to choose between in-person, online, or video classes on a weekly basis.

    Leveraging Technology and Trends

    See how Stark uses AI to automate communication and streamline processes, benefiting both staff and students.

    Get insights into the importance of flexible programming in meeting the needs of busy adult learners.

    Overcoming Marketing Challenges

    Gain tips on maximizing resources with cost-effective tools like Canva and CapCut for content creation.

    Hear Cheryl's advice on making the best use of available technology, even if it's just a smartphone camera.

    Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into how Stark College & Seminary effectively markets to non-traditional students and manages to make a significant impact with limited resources.

    Connect with Cheryl Temple on LinkedIn for more insights into her work.

    Listen now and enhance your higher-ed marketing strategies!

    Until next time! โœŒ๏ธ

  • It's podcast Thursday, and I'm excited to share highlights from my recent interview with Raffi DerSimonian, VP & Chief Strategy Officer at ERI and Principal at DerSimonian LLC. ๐ŸŽ™๏ธ

    Raffi's journey into higher education marketing is nothing short of inspiring.

    Starting with a passion for music, ๐ŸŽธ he transitioned into marketing and found his niche in higher-ed. ๐ŸŽ“

    This episode dives into how AI revolutionizes website redesigns in higher education marketing.

    Here are the key takeaways from our conversation:

    ๐™†๐™š๐™ฎ ๐™Ž๐™ฉ๐™ง๐™–๐™ฉ๐™š๐™œ๐™ž๐™š๐™จ ๐™›๐™ค๐™ง ๐™๐™จ๐™ž๐™ฃ๐™œ ๐˜ผ๐™„ ๐™ž๐™ฃ ๐™’๐™š๐™—๐™จ๐™ž๐™ฉ๐™š ๐™๐™š๐™™๐™š๐™จ๐™ž๐™œ๐™ฃ:

    ๐Ÿ” AI tools can analyze user behavior to provide insights into what works and what doesn't, ensuring a more intuitive and engaging website.

    ๐Ÿค AI allows for highly personalized content. By analyzing visitor data, AI can tailor content to meet the specific needs and interests of different user segments, making your website more relevant and engaging.

    ๐Ÿ“ˆ AI can optimize your website's SEO by analyzing trends and keywords, ensuring that your content is always optimized for search engines.

    ๐Ÿ”ฎ AI can predict future trends and behaviors based on historical data, helping you stay ahead of the curve.

    ๐˜พ๐™ค๐™ข๐™ข๐™ค๐™ฃ ๐™‹๐™ž๐™ฉ๐™›๐™–๐™ก๐™ก๐™จ ๐™–๐™ฃ๐™™ ๐™ƒ๐™ค๐™ฌ ๐™ฉ๐™ค ๐˜ผ๐™ซ๐™ค๐™ž๐™™ ๐™๐™๐™š๐™ข ๐™ฌ๐™ž๐™ฉ๐™ ๐˜ผ๐™„:

    ๐Ÿ–ฅ AI provides valuable insights into user behavior. Use AI to continuously monitor and adjust based on user interactions.

    ๐Ÿค“ AI can help simplify user journeys by highlighting the most important features and content for your audience.

    ๐˜ผ๐™„ ๐™๐™ค๐™ค๐™ก๐™จ ๐™–๐™ฃ๐™™ ๐™๐™š๐™˜๐™๐™ฃ๐™ž๐™ฆ๐™ช๐™š๐™จ ๐™›๐™ค๐™ง ๐™’๐™š๐™—๐™จ๐™ž๐™ฉ๐™š ๐™๐™š๐™™๐™š๐™จ๐™ž๐™œ๐™ฃ:

    ๐Ÿ–ผ Use AI tools to analyze the visual appeal and performance of your site.

    ๐Ÿคœ ๐Ÿค› Implement AI personalization engines to deliver customized experiences to each visitor. This increases engagement and retention.

    Raffi's insights underscore the transformative power of AI in website redesigns for higher education marketing. ๐Ÿ‘

    For those looking to dive deeper into these topics, connect with Raffi on LinkedIn and listen to the full episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast. ๐ŸŽ™

    Don't miss this episode if you're ready to leverage AI to enhance your website redesign.

    Until next time! โœŒ๏ธ

    #HigherEdMarketing #HigherEducation #Podcasting #WebsiteRedesign #DataDriven #UserExperience #Personalization

  • ๐ŸŽ“ Tune into the latest Education Marketing Leader podcast episode as Dr. Carrie Phillips, Chief Marketing Officer at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, joins me to delve into effective strategies for managing the impending demographic Enrollment Cliff.

    Episode Highlights:

    ๐Ÿ”น Confronting the Enrollment Cliff

    Dr. Phillips discusses proactive measures for addressing the anticipated decline in traditional-aged college students due to demographic shifts.

    This is critical for higher-ed marketers looking to stay ahead in student recruitment and engagement.

    ๐Ÿ”น Mastering Personalized Marketing

    Personalization is vital from the first student interaction, whether it's through digital platforms or during a campus tour.

    Dr. Phillips emphasizes creating content that resonates personally to boost student engagement and retention.

    ๐Ÿ”น Cultural Sensitivity in Marketing

    With changing demographics, it's essential to tailor marketing efforts to meet the diverse needs of prospective students effectively.

    ๐Ÿ”น Strategic Resource Allocation

    Understand where to direct your marketing resources to make the most impact.

    According to Dr. Phillips, supporting students through personalized communication plays a crucial role in their educational journey.

    ๐Ÿ”น The Power of Print

    Contrary to popular belief, print isn't dead.

    Dr. Phillips shares how targeted print materials can significantly influence prospective students by providing a tangible connection to the institution.

    ๐Ÿ”น Analytics and Feedback

    Learn how to leverage data and student feedback to refine your marketing strategies, ensuring your efforts resonate with your target demographic.

    This episode is packed with insights for higher-ed marketing professionals who want to navigate demographic changes with innovative and effective strategies.

    Connect with Dr. Phillips on LinkedIn for more insights and check out her insightful blog andcarrieon for all things higher education marketing.

    ๐ŸŽง For a deep dive into adapting and thriving in the face of demographic shifts, make sure to listen to this episode!

    ๐ŸŒŸ If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. ๐Ÿ™

    Until next time. โœŒ

    #HigherEducation #Marketing #DemographicEnrollmentCliff #EnrollmentCliff #Podcasting

  • In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I sat down with RJ Thompson, a seasoned digital strategist and educator from the University of Pittsburgh.

    RJ shared some incredible insights on transforming community engagement and educational marketing through innovative strategies.

    ๐Ÿ’ก Key Takeaways:

    Marketing Education Over Institutions

    RJ emphasizes the importance of marketing the value of education itself, rather than just the institutions offering it. This approach not only attracts more genuine interest but also fosters a culture of lifelong learning.

    Community Impact through Design

    With extensive experience in revitalizing post-industrial towns, RJ discusses using design and marketing to stimulate economic development and community engagement, proving that creative strategies can lead to substantial local change.

    Empathy in Education

    He highlights the critical role of empathy in education, advocating for a focus on student experiences and needs, rather than traditional marketing metrics.

    ๐Ÿš€ Actionable Strategy:

    RJ suggests that educators and marketers in higher education should engage more deeply with the communities they serve.

    This means not just teaching or marketing to them but listening and responding to their needs to facilitate real growth and opportunity.

    ๐Ÿ“š For those looking to dive deeper into innovative educational strategies and community engagement, this episode is a must-listen!

    Connect with RJ on LinkedIn to continue the conversation and explore more about his transformative approaches to education and marketing.

    ๐Ÿ”— Listen to the full episode by following the link in the comments below.

    ๐ŸŒŸ If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. ๐Ÿ™

    Until next time. โœŒ

    #Highereducation #HigherEdMarketing #EducationMarketing #Marketing

    #MarketingLeadership

  • In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader, I had the pleasure of talking with Jaime Hunt, an award-winning CMO and host of the Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO podcast.

    Jaime recently announced that she has a thrilling new venture, launching her own consulting firm:

    Solve Higher Ed

    ๐Ÿ”‘ Key Insights from my conversation with Jaime:

    Transition from CMO to Consultant: After a distinguished career, Jaime felt the pull to start her own firm to amplify her impact across multiple institutions, tackling pressing challenges like the enrollment cliff and the need for improved student retention strategies.AI in Higher Education: Jaime shares practical tips for integrating AI tools into higher-ed marketing strategies, pushing beyond the hype to enhance operational effectiveness.Student Retention Focus: One of Jaime's primary missions is enhancing student retention through strategic communications and robust journey mapping, areas often overlooked in traditional recruitment-focused marketing efforts.

    Jaime's shift from a CMO to a consultant is both a career change and a strategic move to foster broader improvements in the higher education sector.

    Her agency aims to deliver high-value, cost-effective solutions, especially for institutions that might not have the budget for larger agencies but still need to innovate and improve.

    Jaime's journey offers insights into navigating career transitions with strategic foresight and unwavering passion.

    Whether you're a marketer in the trenches or a leader looking to reshape your institution's future, there's plenty to learn from her bold moves and visionary approaches.

    ๐Ÿ”— Listen to the full episode by following the link in the comments below.

    Connect with Jaime for collaboration or consultation.

    ๐ŸŒŸ If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. ๐Ÿ™

    Until next time. โœŒ

    #HigherEdMarketing #EducationMarketing #CareerTransition #Marketing #StudentRetention #MarketingLeadership

  • This week's Education Marketing Leader podcast episode concludes our community college series hosted in honor of Community College Month.

    I'm excited to share my conversation with Jeff Ebbing, Director of Marketing and Communications at Southeastern Community College and former National Council for Marketing & Public Relations president.

    I first met Jeff at NCMPR's National Conference in Orlando last year and got to know him better during a fun run through the streets of Seattle at this year's conference.

    Our conversation centered around practical strategies for higher-ed marketers.

    We explored how to craft messages that reach, resonate, and inspire action among audiences, providing tangible steps for implementation.

    Episode Highlights:

    Strategic Messaging: Jeff shared how simplifying complex messages like their "Get Paid to Go to Nursing School" campaign dramatically increased engagement and conversions. This practical approach cuts through the noise, reaching students where they're most attentive.

    Audience Engagement: We discussed the importance of directly engaging with students to gather feedback, utilizing programs like the Blackhawk Ambassadors. This real-time input shapes more relevant and impactful campaigns.

    Innovative Media Use: From traditional billboards to digital platforms, Jeff emphasized the need to constantly adapt and experiment with media channels to keep messages fresh and effective.

    Adapting to Change: Highlighting the evolution from traditional to digital tactics, Jeff provided insights on staying ahead in the rapidly changing landscape of digital marketing in education.

    This episode is a must-listen for all higher-ed marketers looking to sharpen their strategies and push the envelope on their campaigns.

    ๐ŸŒŸ If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. ๐Ÿ™

    Until next time. โœŒ

    P.S. Be sure to connect with Jeff and follow Southeastern Community College social to see the strategies in practice.

    Resources mentioned during the episode: SCC Ad: Erin Wagner: "I know you can do this"

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCReC9t6u1c

  • In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Maya Demishkevich, the Chief Marketing Officer at Carroll Community College.

    Maya shared groundbreaking strategies on how her team uses social media to help Carroll Community College retain its students.

    One of the insights shared were the five key pillars affecting student retention:

    ๐Ÿ’ฒ Financial Burden: Engaging content that informs students about scholarships, financial aid, and budget management tips.

    ๐ŸŽ“ Academic Challenges: Promotions for tutoring services and study groups to bridge knowledge gaps.

    ๐Ÿ‘ถ ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Balancing Commitments: Support resources for adult learners and working students, showcasing flexible learning options.

    ๐Ÿง˜โ€โ™‚๏ธ Mental Health: Awareness campaigns focusing on wellness resources and support systems available on campus.

    ๐Ÿค Student Assistance Resources: Highlighting campus services like career counseling and health services, ensuring students know how to access these resources.

    ๐Ÿ’ก Why It's Crucial:

    These pillars represent students' core challenges, and addressing them through social media can significantly enhance their college experience and likelihood of success.

    Strategic Takeaways for Marketers:

    1๏ธโƒฃ Targeted Campaigns: Each piece of content is tailored to address specific student needs, making social media a critical touchpoint for support.

    2๏ธโƒฃ Faculty Involvement: Empowering faculty to participate in social media efforts amplifies reach and authenticity.

    3๏ธโƒฃ Student Ambassadors: Leveraging student voices to relate and resonate, making the message more impactful.

    Tune in to the full conversation on the Education Marketing Leader podcast today.

    ๐ŸŒŸ If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. ๐Ÿ™

    Until next time. โœŒ

    P.S. Be sure to connect with Maya and follow Carroll Community College on social to see how they put the advice Maya shared into practice.

    #HigherEducation #Marketing #StudentRetention #SocialMediaStrategy #Podcast

  • In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jason Houlihan, MBA, the Executive Director of Marketing and Events at Del Mar College. ๐ŸŽ“

    I heard Jason speak at the 2024 NCMPR National Conference in Seattle last month and was so inspired by his talk that I invited him on the show. ๐ŸŽ™

    We focused the episode on how to craft memorable marketing messages in higher education.

    Here are the key takeaways:

    ๐„๐ฆ๐›๐ซ๐š๐œ๐ž ๐ƒ๐ข๐ ๐ข๐ญ๐š๐ฅ ๐…๐ข๐ซ๐ฌ๐ญ

    Jason emphasizes the power of digital marketing, especially in engaging today's tech-savvy students.

    From memes that resonate with local culture to the strategic use of YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels, it's about meeting students where they are.

    ๐’๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ๐ญ๐ž๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐ข๐ฌ ๐Š๐ž๐ฒ

    Jason shared how Del Mar College uses storytelling to connect with students, making them the heroes of their educational journey.

    This approach not only enhances relatability but also boosts engagement and enrollment.

    ๐๐ฎ๐๐ ๐ž๐ญ-๐’๐ฆ๐š๐ซ๐ญ ๐ˆ๐ง๐ง๐จ๐ฏ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ

    Budget constraints are always a concern, so Jason highlighted the importance of cost-effective marketing strategies.

    Leveraging AI and CRM tools can automate and streamline processes, allowing marketers to focus on creativity and human interaction.

    ๐‚๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ฎ๐จ๐ฎ๐ฌ ๐‹๐ž๐š๐ซ๐ง๐ข๐ง๐  ๐š๐ง๐ ๐€๐๐š๐ฉ๐ญ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง

    The landscape of digital marketing is ever-changing.

    Jason's approach involves constant learning and adapting to new platforms while ensuring brand consistency and engagement across all channels.

    ๐Ÿ”— Want to hear more about how Jason is transforming the marketing landscape in Corpus Christi, Texas?

    Tune in to the full conversation on the Education Marketing Leader podcast.

    ๐ŸŒŸ If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review. ๐Ÿ™

    Until next time. โœŒ

    P.S. Be sure to connect with Jason and follow Del Mar College on social to see how they put the advice Jason shared into practice.

    #HigherEducation #Marketing #DigitalMarketing #Storytelling #Podcast

  • In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, Abby Humbel, Digital Marketing Manager at Hagerstown Community College, shared practical insights on implementing student influencer marketing. ๐Ÿ’ก

    Here's a breakdown of the episode:

    ๐Ÿ’  Strategy Introduction

    Abby explained the shift towards using student influencers to create authentic, relatable content that reflects real student experiences, aiming to connect with prospective students on a genuine level. ๐Ÿคœ ๐Ÿค›

    ๐Ÿ’  Advantages

    The authenticity and relatability of student-created content stand out.

    Successful campaigns include study tips and "day in the life" videos, resonating well due to their genuine insight into student life. ๐ŸŽ“

    ๐Ÿ’  Implementation

    Abby outlined the process of working with student influencers who operate as contractors, producing content independently while adhering to set guidelines to ensure brand alignment and authenticity. ๐Ÿ˜Ž

    ๐Ÿ’  Metrics and Diversity

    Importance is placed on engagement metrics and the diversity of influencer groups to ensure broad relatability.

    This approach helps refine the strategy and ensure that the content appeals to a wide audience. ๐Ÿ“ˆ

    ๐Ÿ”‘ Key Takeaways

    Abby emphasized the need for clear program guidelines, the value of diversity among influencers, and the importance of balancing informative and entertaining content. ๐Ÿค“

    For more detailed insights, Abby's full discussion offers a roadmap for starting or enhancing a student influencer marketing program at your college or university.

    Connect with her on LinkedIn for more on digital marketing in education.

    ๐ŸŒŸ If you enjoyed the episode, please hit like, subscribe, and leave a review of the Education Marketing Leader. ๐Ÿ™

    Until next time. โœŒ

  • In the latest Education Marketing Leader podcast episode, I sat down with Maria Kuntz, Communications Director at the University of Colorado Boulder.

    Maria shared her unexpected journey into higher education marketing and her commitment to inclusivity in communication. ๐Ÿ’ก

    Key insights for higher education marketing professionals:

    โ™ฆ Inclusivity Starts with Acknowledgment:

    Recognizing you donโ€™t have all the answers is the first step toward fostering an inclusive environment.

    โ™ฆ Training is Crucial:

    Educating your team on bias and identity reduces fear around discussions of difference, enhancing inclusivity in your campaigns.

    โ™ฆ Safety to Learn:

    A psychologically safe team space encourages learning from mistakes, which is vital for developing inclusive storytelling.

    โ™ฆ Be Intentional with Storytelling:

    Itโ€™s about lifting diverse voices and ensuring content resonates authentically with a wide audience, respecting cultural nuances.

    โ™ฆ Retention Focus: Beyond attracting underrepresented students, focus on creating supportive environments to improve retention.

    โ™ฆ Mindful Questioning:

    Avoid unnecessary identity-based questions in interviews unless they serve a clear purpose in the context.

    โ™ฆ Navigating DEI Initiatives:

    With shifting policies, itโ€™s essential to adapt and maintain a commitment to diverse and inclusive narratives.

    โ™ฆ Start Small and Be Curious:

    Implementing an inclusive mindset in marketing strategies begins with one project. Approach it with curiosity and be open to feedback.

    Mariaโ€™s advice emphasizes the importance of slowing down to ensure the inclusivity of both the process and the narrative.

    For those looking to explore inclusive marketing practices in higher education more deeply, connecting with Maria on LinkedIn could offer further insights.

    Listen to the full episode for a comprehensive understanding of integrating these principles into your marketing strategies.

    #HigherEdMarketing #InclusiveMarketing #EducationMarketingLeader

  • In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Elliot Lollis, a Senior Brand Strategist at Up&Up.

    We discussed how colleges and universities can elevate their institution's brand amid the stiffening competition.

    Below are some takeaways from the show:

    ๐Ÿ‘‚ Listen Before You Leap

    The cornerstone of Elliot's strategy revolves around deep listeningโ€”understanding the unique DNA of an institution before crafting a brand story that resonates with both internal stakeholders and prospective students.

    ๐Ÿ— Authenticity is Key

    Elliot emphasizes the importance of genuine storytelling. It's about capturing the essence of an institution's values, culture, and vision.

    ๐Ÿค Collaboration Across Departments

    Elliot discussed the silos within institutions that can impede a cohesive brand strategy.

    Her solution?

    Foster cross-departmental collaborations as a way to unify the brand voice and experience.

    ๐Ÿ˜ต Avoiding the Pitfalls

    Elliot was candid about the missteps to dodge in higher education marketingโ€”from the perils of inconsistency to underestimating the power of student voices in storytelling.

    ๐Ÿ›  Tools and Trends

    Always ahead of the curve, Elliot shared insights into the latest trends and tools that are reshaping how we approach brand strategy in higher education, underscoring the importance of staying adaptable and learner-centric.

    ๐ŸŽง Why This Matters

    As higher education marketing professionals, understanding the interplay between brand strategy, storytelling, and audience engagement is critical.

    Elliot's insights illuminate the path to stronger brand alignment and encourage us to think outside the traditional marketing playbook.

    For those eager to dive deeper into the world of brand strategy and storytelling, connect with Elliot on LinkedIn.

    Take advantage of the latest conversation with actionable strategies, personal anecdotes, and a roadmap to branding success.

    Until next time.โœŒ๏ธ

    #highereducation #marketing #branding #pocdast

  • In the latest Education Marketing Leader podcast episode, I was thrilled to welcome Julie Johnson Novara, the visionary behind Julie Johnson Writing Services. ๐Ÿ”

    With a rich background in international studies, education, and a deep-seated love for storytelling, Julie brings a fresh perspective to crafting compelling content strategies for higher education institutions. ๐Ÿ’ก

    Here are some key insights from the episode:

    ๐’๐ญ๐ซ๐š๐ญ๐ž๐ ๐ข๐œ ๐‚๐ฅ๐š๐ซ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ

    Begin by clearly understanding your content goals, knowing your audience intimately, and choosing the right channels to engage them.

    ๐€๐ฎ๐๐ข๐ž๐ง๐œ๐ž ๐…๐ข๐ซ๐ฌ๐ญ

    Emphasize thorough research to grasp the nuances of your student body's needs and aspirations, ensuring your message hits home.

    ๐‚๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ง๐ญ ๐๐š๐ฅ๐š๐ง๐œ๐ž

    Achieve the right mix of informative and promotional content, tailoring your approach to inform, engage, and inspire your audience without overwhelming them.

    ๐€๐ฎ๐ญ๐ก๐ž๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐œ ๐’๐ญ๐จ๐ซ๐ฒ๐ญ๐ž๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ข๐ง๐ 

    Leverage your institution's unique stories to foster a genuine connection with prospective students and showcase real impact and value.

    ๐ˆ๐ง๐ง๐จ๐ฏ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ž ๐˜๐ž๐ญ ๐†๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐๐ž๐

    Stay abreast of evolving trends like AI and virtual reality, but anchor your content in the authenticity only human-created narratives can provide.

    ๐Œ๐ž๐ญ๐ซ๐ข๐œ๐ฌ ๐“๐ก๐š๐ญ ๐Œ๐š๐ญ๐ญ๐ž๐ซ

    Focus on KPIs that truly reflect engagement and conversion, adjusting your strategy to optimize performance and ROI.

    ๐‚๐จ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐š๐›๐จ๐ซ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ž ๐‚๐ซ๐ž๐š๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ

    Encourage a synergistic environment where marketers, content creators, and academics collaborate to produce content that resonates and attracts.

    ๐„๐ฅ๐ž๐ฏ๐š๐ญ๐ž ๐˜๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐‚๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ง๐ญ ๐’๐ญ๐ซ๐š๐ญ๐ž๐ ๐ฒ

    Julie advocates starting with well-defined objectives and progressively refining your approach based on audience feedback and evolving trends.

    Whether it's through impactful stories, innovative formats, or strategic engagement, the goal is to create content that deeply connects with your audience. ๐Ÿคœ ๐Ÿค›

    Tune in to glean actionable advice that will:

    ๐Ÿ”ธ Empower you to refine your content strategy

    ๐Ÿ”ธ Engage prospective students more effectively, and

    ๐Ÿ”ธ Amplify your institution's narrative in the competitive landscape of higher education.

    ๐Ÿ–‡ Connect with Julie on LinkedIn to explore further insights into effective content strategy in higher education, or visit her website at www.johnsonwriter.com

    Until next time. โœŒ๏ธ

    #marketing #highereducation EducationMarketing #HigherEdContent #ContentStrategy #Podcasting

  • ๐ŸŽ™๏ธ Exciting Recap from the Latest Episode of the Education Marketing Leader Podcast! ๐Ÿš€

    In a recent episode, I learned about public scholarship and how to amplify research through podcasting from Robert S. Li ๐ŸŽ“๐ŸŽ™, co-founder of University FM and Professors.fm. 

    For all you higher education marketing professionals, this episode is a wellspring of innovative strategies and valuable insights!

    ๐Ÿ”Š Amplifying Faculty Voices Through Podcasting:

    Robert shared his journey from the University of Michigan to co-founding University FM, a platform transforming the landscape of higher education communication. 

    We explored the transformative power of podcasts in making scholarly research accessible, engaging, and relevant to the broader public.

    ๐ŸŽ“ The Power of Public Scholarship:

    We dove into how podcasts serve as a bridge, connecting complex academic research with the community, enhancing the institution's impact and reach. 

    Imagine the potential when your faculty's groundbreaking research resonates with a global audience!

    ๐ŸŽง Strategic Insights for University Podcasts:

    Whether you're contemplating a faculty-hosted show or a student-driven podcast, the key lies in aligning with your university's core message. We dissected the podcast production process into strategic phases.

    ๐Ÿ“ˆ Elevating Your University's Brand:

    Robert highlighted how scholar-hosted podcasts could significantly boost your university's reputation, drawing in prospective students eager to learn from renowned experts firsthand.

    ๐Ÿค” Who Should Host? Navigating Choices:

    The decision between a faculty member or a marketer hosting your podcast can be pivotal. 

    We discussed how this choice affects brand consistency, audience connection, and the overall success of your podcasting endeavor.

    Don't miss this rich discussion with actionable insights tailored for higher education marketers looking to innovate and elevate their institution's voice in the digital sphere.

    ๐Ÿ”— Connect with us to stay ahead in the dynamic world of education marketing, and tune in for more episodes that empower your strategies and spark transformation.

    Until next time, keep pushing the boundaries of educational marketing! โœŒ๏ธ

    #EducationMarketing #HigherEd #Podcasting #PublicScholarship #UniversityFM #InnovationInEducation

  • As a J-School grad, I'm always excited to speak with a TV reporter gone higher-ed marketer. 

    During the latest Education Marketing Leader podcast episode, I spoke with Siobhan Lopez, the Assistant Director of Media Relations at Southern New Hampshire University. 

    Siobhan's journey is a narrative that's as compelling as it is instructive.

    Here's the scoop:

    Siobhan's decade-long stint in broadcast journalism was more than a careerโ€”it was a masterclass in storytelling. 

    Transitioning to higher ed marketing, she's now turning the spotlight on SNHU, proving that every great institution has a story to tell. 

    Journalist's Instinct: 

    Imagine leveraging a reporter's eye in your marketing strategy. 

    That's Siobhan for you!

    Her advice? 

    Hire those who know a reporter's beat, likes, and dislikes. 

    Their storytelling is as effective as it is transformative. 

    Pitch Perfect: 

    These days, it's no longer just about pumping out press releases. 

    It's about sending the right ones to the right outlets.

    Siobhan's mantra is clear โ€“ understand your audience, tailor your pitch, and watch your story get picked up.

    Real Relationships: 

    Forget mass emails. 

    Siobhan's success with media placements is all about those personal connections, knowing what journalists want, and delivering stories that resonate. 

    It's networking gold. ๐Ÿค

    Authenticity is Key

    In a world buzzing with content, authenticity wins. 

    Siobhan's work exemplifies this: turning SNHU's narratives into compelling, sought-after media stories that inspire and engage. ๐ŸŒŸ๐Ÿ—ฃ

    Siobhan's Takeaway: 

    Transform your approach, think like a journalist, and tell stories that matter. 

    Siobhan's background is impressive, and her episode is a blueprint for education marketers aiming to make a real impact.

    Eager to amplify your university's stories with the same finesse? 

    Connect, share, and engage with this episode's golden insights. ๐ŸŽ“

    P.S. A special thank you to Kirk Hazlett, a former Education Marketing Leader podcast guest, and mutual connection, for introducing me to Siobhan.

    #EducationMarketing #HigherEdInnovation #MediaRelations #Storytelling #MarketingStrategy

  • Just dropped an insightful conversation with the brilliant Harrison "Soup" Campbell, Head of Community Experience at ZeeMee, where we dove deep into the evolution of student engagement in the higher education space. ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ’ก

    Soup shared his incredible journey from University Admissions Pro to the groundbreaking work ZeeMee is doing to revolutionize how colleges and universities connect with prospective students. ๐ŸŒŸ

    ๐Ÿ”‘ ๐•‚๐•–๐•ช ๐•‹๐•’๐•œ๐•–๐•’๐•จ๐•’๐•ช๐•ค:

    ๐„๐š๐ซ๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐„๐ง๐ ๐š๐ ๐ž๐ฆ๐ž๐ง๐ญ ๐ข๐ฌ ๐‚๐ซ๐ฎ๐œ๐ข๐š๐ฅ: The shift from a digital portfolio platform to a thriving social community emphasizes the importance of early and authentic engagement with students. Soup stresses the need for relational over transactional interactions to build meaningful connections. 

    ๐“๐ก๐ž ๐๐จ๐ฐ๐ž๐ซ ๐จ๐Ÿ ๐€๐ฎ๐ญ๐ก๐ž๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐œ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ: In the digital age, students crave genuine connections. Leveraging current students as influencers and hosting authentic events can significantly enhance engagement and foster a sense of belonging among prospective students. ๐ŸŒ

    ๐ˆ๐ง๐ง๐จ๐ฏ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ž ๐๐ฅ๐š๐ญ๐Ÿ๐จ๐ซ๐ฆ๐ฌ ๐Ÿ๐จ๐ซ ๐ƒ๐„๐ˆ: Highlighting USC's success story, Soup shares how dedicated chat channels can lead to record-breaking enrollment increases, showcasing the effectiveness in supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. ๐ŸŽ‰

    ๐€๐๐š๐ฉ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐ญ๐จ ๐ญ๐ก๐ž ๐ƒ๐ข๐ ๐ข๐ญ๐š๐ฅ ๐‹๐š๐ง๐๐ฌ๐œ๐š๐ฉ๐ž: Finally, the conversation circled back to the challenges and opportunities in engaging digital-native students. Understanding the culture of various online communities and the pivotal role of technology, especially AI, in shaping future engagements. ๐Ÿš€

    This episode is a goldmine for higher education marketing professionals looking to elevate their strategies and connect with their audience meaningfully.

    ๐Ÿ‘‰ Don't miss out on this episode filled with actionable insights; head to our podcast page to listen now!

    And if Soup's journey or ZeeMee's innovative approach sparks an idea, feel free to connect with him on LinkedIn. 

    Let's keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible in education marketing together. ๐ŸŒฑ

    Until next time, stay curious and engaged. โœŒ๏ธ

    #EducationMarketing #HigherEd #DigitalEngagement #PodcastRecap #CommunityBuilding #ZeeMee #MarketingInsights

  • In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Kathleen Stockham, the CMO at South College. 

    Kathleen's journey from television news to e-commerce giant America Online and eventually to the helm of South College's marketing is nothing short of inspiring.

    Kathleen took us behind the scenes of South College's website overhaul, a project critical for modernizing their digital presence. 

    The revamp was more than just about aesthetics. 

    It was about creating a seamless, mobile-friendly user experience that resonates with prospective students and parents alike.

    Speed and personalization were at the core of the project. 

    Drawing on her e-commerce expertise, Kathleen emphasized the need for fast, accessible content and the power of multimedia to engage prospective students. 

    Thanks to Kathleen and her creative director, Jose Salas, personal stories, vibrant colors, and intuitive layouts now define South College's online identity.

    What sets Kathleen apart is her commitment to understanding student motivations. 

    By gathering first-party data and prioritizing compliance without compromising consumer value, she's ensuring South College's website is a portal and a journey into the heart of what the college offers.

    The road to revamping a higher-ed website is fraught with challenges, from convincing stakeholders to ensuring mobile optimization. 

    Kathleen's strategy? 

    Continuous improvement and a relentless focus on the user experience.

    Whether you're knee-deep in marketing strategy or just fascinated by the intersection of education and digital innovation, this episode is a goldmine of insights.

    "The website is a living entity demanding constant care," Kathleen reminds us. 

    In higher education marketing, being static is not an option.

    Eager to dive deeper into Kathleen's strategies or start a conversation? 

    Connect with her on LinkedIn.

    Keep pushing the boundaries of higher education marketing. 

    Stay tuned for more episodes that blend expertise, strategy, and actionable advice.

    Until next time. โœŒ๏ธ

    P.S. A special thank you to Olivia Giamanco for the introduction. 

    #HigherEdMarketing #Web #marketing

  • In the latest episode of the Education Marketing Leader podcast, I sat down with Kristin Nichols, Founder of Nichols Higher Education, to discuss a topic that many of us are interested in:

    ๐‘๐ž๐š๐œ๐ก๐ข๐ง๐  ๐š๐ง๐ ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐Ÿ๐ข๐ซ๐ฌ๐ญ-๐ ๐ž๐ง๐ž๐ซ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐œ๐จ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ž๐ ๐ž ๐ฌ๐ญ๐ฎ๐๐ž๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ.With the enrollment cliff looming,

    Kristin underscored the untapped potential within this demographic.

    Drawing on over two decades of experience working in higher-ed, she shared how institutions can authentically connect with these students, ensuring they feel seen, supported, and included.

    ๐Ÿ”‘ Key Takeaways:

    ๐Ÿค” Understand Their Unique Challenges:First-gen students often balance familial responsibilities alongside their studies.Marketing needs to highlight the student experience and the support systems in place, not just the ROI of education

    .๐Ÿค Inclusivity in Communication:Many first-gen students come from non-native English speaking backgrounds. Translating digital and physical materials can make a significant difference.Simple, yet profound strategies like accommodating event times can make these students feel valued.

    ๐Ÿ‘ Authentic Engagement:Use a conversational tone in your messaging. Break down the college application process, financial details, and long-term benefits into digestible information.Storytelling, especially through digital platforms, is key. Share success stories of first-gen students to inspire and motivate.

    ๐Ÿคœ ๐Ÿค› Community Engagement:Extend your marketing efforts beyond the campus.Engage with local communities through cultural events and exhibits. It's not just about bringing people to campus but building trust with them.

    โฉ Continuous Innovation:Stay agile.

    With demographics and trends constantly evolving, assessing and adjusting your communication strategies is crucial.Embrace new technologies and platforms where first-gen students spend their time.

    Kristin's insights remind us that a commitment to understanding and addressing first-generation college students' unique needs and challenges is at the heart of effective marketing to them.

    It's about creating a sense of belonging and support that extends from their first inquiry to graduation and beyond.This episode is for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of first-generation students and navigate the upcoming enrollment challenges.

    Connect with Kristin on LinkedIn and join her at the 2024 Cascade User Conference on February 22, where she is a panelist at a round table discussion on navigating the enrollment cliff.

    Don't miss it!

    Until next time.