Education has been among the hardest-hit segments during pandemic times. The virus closed down schools, colleges, and universities, making hybrid learning the only solution. International students had to stay home due to travel restrictions. Even as things improve in the new normal, the industry is still far from the right track. Navigating the hybrid model is not the only challenge for educational institutions.
Acquiring new admissions and retaining the current ones is even more daunting. Only a great marketing plan can cover you on these fronts. It is time to ramp up your current plan and pick innovative strategies with real potential. Here are successful education marketing strategies that can help you survive and thrive amid the ongoing pandemic.
Double up on online promotions
Over the last two years, online marketing has emerged as a saviour for businesses. Consumers look for products and services on the internet, so make sure your school or university has a viable presence. Invest in an impressive website, and revamp it if you have to. Get it to the top with a robust SEO plan because visibility is vital. Double up on social media promotions because they extend reach and build credibility. Customer reviews are perhaps the most crucial element of the mix because people trust them more than any other thing you do to promote your institution. Create a holistic plan to bolster your online presence with the right elements.
Do not skimp on offline marketing
While online marketing gives you the reach you need, you cannot go slack with offline marketing. Invest in print ads, brochures, and pamphlets because you have to connect with the segment of the non-internet-savvy audience too. Events and educational fairs are back in the new normal, so be ready to win the banner marketing game. Invest in impressive display material, assess your banner stand requirements, and you are all set to impress at the next fair in town. Rework on your offline presence with billboards and outdoor displays at the right places because schools and universities can expect foot traffic to resume in the foreseeable future.
Focus on the right message
While a mix of online and offline campaigns can keep you visible, messaging gets the impact right. After all, just being visible is not the motive. You have to win the trust of the audience, which is the mainstay of getting them back in pandemic times. The messaging requires good thinking, as you need to showcase more than your academic offerings. Student safety is the top priority right now, so highlight the measures you will implement while reopening. Also, display the discounts and offers prominently because they play a significant role in driving admissions in the competitive landscape.
Education marketing in pandemic times requires a strategic approach. You need to invest in the right marketing mix in the first place. Additionally, a message that highlights your commitment to the safety and well-being of students can set you apart. Follow these simple strategies to cover all fronts and emerge strong with your marketing game.
