There are several compelling reasons why a school should consider digital marketing as a key long-term strategy for increasing enrollment. By embracing the power of digital marketing, schools can stay ahead of the competition, effectively communicate their unique value proposition, and attract the right students. But there are a lot of options out there, which ones work best for schools?
Here are the top 5 digital marketing strategies we recommend for schools of any size:
A well-designed and user-friendly website serves as the centerpiece of a school's digital marketing efforts. It should showcase the school's mission, programs, faculty, facilities, testimonials, and contact information. The website should have clear direction for current students and their families to navigate the site while still geared towards your prospective student families.
A good website will have landing pages for your digital ads and offer multiple ways for prospective parents to take the next step and request a tour or fill out a contact form.
Utilize paid advertising options such as Google Ads, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube video ad campaigns to increase brand visibility and reach a wider audience. Targeting specific demographics, interests, and geographic locations ensures that the school's ads are seen by individuals who are most likely to be interested in your programs.
Video ads give your marketing campaigns an added a personal touch. They help families in your community mentally connect with your school's physical location, and build trust with your name, face, and voice.
Utilize the best marketing resource you already have: your existing happy families. Encourage satisfied students, parents, and alumni to share their positive experiences through online reviews and testimonials. Positive reviews boost the school's reputation and credibility, serving as valuable social proof.
This can be built up easily over time by adding review links to the footer of all your communication with current parents, and routinely asking your staff to remind families, too.
Establishing a strong presence on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn helps schools reach and engage with their target audience. Regularly posting relevant updates, sharing success stories, and showcasing campus life creates an emotional connection with prospective students and parents.
Regular activity on these accounts, including comment management, will show that your school is active and current with the digital transformation happening around the world.
Grow My School offers a wide variety of marketing resources, from social media ads on platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram to printed resources like banners and family recruitment packets. If you'd like help increasing your community's awareness of your school, click the link below to connect with our team and get a free estimate and informational board packet to take to your next team meeting.