15 New Solutions on Social Media Marketing in Higher Education
The digital landscape of higher education is evolving rapidly, and social media has become an undeniable force in attracting and engaging prospective students. But with countless institutions vying for attention online, standing out from the crowd requires fresh thinking and innovative strategies. So, ditch the tired retweets and generic campus photos – it's time to inject your social media marketing with a dose of creative genius.
Below are 15 cutting-edge solutions to supercharge your social media presence and connect with future students in a meaningful way.
1. Go Live and Interactive:
Ditch the static posts and embrace the power of live video. Host Q&A sessions with faculty, campus tours led by student ambassadors, or live chats focusing on specific student concerns like financial aid or career advice. The real-time element fosters engagement and allows you to address questions directly, building trust and transparency.
2. Leverage Micro-Influencers:
Instead of chasing celebrity endorsements, partner with student micro-influencers who resonate with your target audience. These relatable individuals can showcase campus life, share study tips, and offer authentic perspectives on academic programs. Their genuine voices hold more weight than polished marketing campaigns, driving organic interest and engagement.
3. Embrace Storytelling, Not Just Selling:
People connect with stories, not sales pitches. Share narratives of current students overcoming challenges, faculty pursuing groundbreaking research, or alumni achieving success after graduation. These relatable stories paint a vivid picture of your institution's impact and inspire prospective students to imagine themselves within your community.
4. Get Hyper-local with Geofilters and AR:
Utilise the power of location-based features like Snapchat Geofilters and Instagram AR filters. Create custom designs that students can use to showcase their campus pride and share their experiences. This fosters a sense of community and encourages organic promotion by students themselves.
5. Partner with Local Businesses and Influencers:
Collaborate with local coffee shops, bookstores, or even sports teams to create cross-promotional campaigns or events. Partner with local social media influencers for takeovers or sponsored content, tapping into their established audience and expanding your reach beyond the campus bubble.
6. Run Targeted Social Media Ads:
Don't waste your advertising budget on broad campaigns. Leverage the advanced targeting capabilities of platforms like Facebook and Instagram to reach specific demographics, interests, and even high school locations. This ensures your message resonates with the right audience, maximising your return on investment.
7. Get Creative with Contests and Giveaways:
Who doesn't love a good giveaway? Host social media contests that encourage user-generated content, like photo challenges showcasing campus life or video testimonials about favorite professors. Offer attractive prizes like scholarships, merchandise, or exclusive experiences to incentivise participation and boost reach.
8. Embrace User-Generated Content (UGC):
Your students are your best brand ambassadors. Encourage them to share their experiences on social media using branded hashtags or challenges. Repost their content, feature them in stories, and actively engage with their posts. This showcases the authentic voice of your student body and builds trust with prospective students.
9. Make Social Media a Two-Way Street:
Social media isn't just about broadcasting information; it's about fostering dialogue. Respond to comments and messages promptly, answer questions, and address concerns with professionalism and care. Show students that you value their voices and are committed to open communication.
10. Utilise Humour and Wit:
Don't be afraid to inject some humor and personality into your social media presence. Share funny memes relatable to student life, post lighthearted faculty interviews, or even create humorous campus-themed TikTok dances. A touch of levity can break through the noise and make your institution more memorable.
11. Celebrate Diversity and Inclusion:
Showcase the diverse voices and experiences that make your campus vibrant. Highlight initiatives promoting inclusivity, feature stories of students from different backgrounds, and actively engage with relevant social justice movements. This demonstrates your commitment to creating a welcoming and equitable environment for all.
12. Leverage Social Media Listening Tools:
Stay ahead of the curve by monitoring online conversations about your institution and related topics. Tools like Brandwatch and Sprout Social can help you track mentions, identify trends, and address potential issues or concerns before they escalate.
13. Partner with Alumni for Mentorship Programs:
Connect current students with successful alumni through social media-facilitated mentorship programs. This allows prospective students to see the long-term benefits of your institution and provides valuable guidance and support to current students.
14. Host Virtual Career Fairs and Events:
Leverage social media platforms to host online career fairs, industry panels, or webinars featuring alumni and industry professionals. This provides valuable career insights and networking opportunities for students, showcasing your institution's commitment to their future success.
15. Experiment with Emerging Technologies:
Stay ahead of the curve by exploring new social media features and platforms like Clubhouse, Twitch, or even the metaverse. Think virtual campus tours, interactive Q&A sessions in digital spaces, or collaborative learning experiences within immersive environments. By embracing these cutting-edge technologies, you demonstrate your institution's innovative spirit and attract tech-savvy students seeking a future-proof education.
Remember, success in social media marketing for higher education is a marathon, not a sprint. Implement these solutions strategically, track your results, and continually refine your approach based on data and audience feedback. By consistently delivering valuable content, fostering genuine connections, and staying innovative, you can transform your social media presence into a powerful magnet for future generations of students.
The Latest Innovations in Higher Education Marketing
Here at HE Professional, we are always exploring the latest ideas and innovations for professional services looking to enhance front-line delivery for students. To stay up to date with the latest insights, subscribe to our free weekly roundup. You’ll receive fresh content straight to your inbox every week.
