Students have more choices than ever when it comes down to education thanks to the internet. E-learning has become a popular option, and there is intense competition between traditional and e-learning solutions.
Students had to go to the library to access the internet in the 1990s. Dial-up eventually entered our homes and allowed us to access the internet. However, we couldn’t use both the landline and the internet at the same time. Everyone now has internet access via phones, tablets, and computers as well as laptops, smartphones, smartwatches, and laptops.
It is estimated that Google Play and App Store have more than half a million educational applications. Marketing was not important in the past because there was little competition. It’s now a buyer’s market, and educational services must use marketing services in Phoenix techniques to survive.
Education Trends
Before we get into the marketing strategies, let’s first mention a few trends in the education industry. First, educational websites and online academies are growing. $275 Billion – This is the estimated value of the global e-learning market (Orbis research).
Many students still seek out the authentic college experience because universities have a reputation and prestige. However, more people are opting to learn online. Online education is especially beneficial for seniors as they can study in another area of the country without having to sacrifice their time or leave work. Online learning is now offered by many universities. This allows students to take courses in the USA while also studying abroad.
Augmented reality and virtual reality are also becoming more popular. Companies are adding virtual 3D models to their education and offering advanced programs. Employers find students more attractive because they have a more immersive experience.
Students don’t want textbooks that cost thousands of dollars. They are instead looking for open-source textbooks or rental services. These solutions are cost-effective, efficient, and convenient, which is not a description of the textbook industry, which has held a monopoly on students for so many years.
This information will help you to identify your unique selling point (USP) in the market. Marketing is essential in the education niche, regardless of popularity, experience, or reputation.
Education Marketing Strategies
1. Connect with Social Media
Everyone is on social media nowadays – there are 2.8 billion active users on Facebook alone. Social media is used by people to find everything. This includes services and educational facilities. You should target younger people, especially those who are on Facebook and Instagram.
Create a buyer persona before you start and make sure you understand your target market. Next, create frequent posts and content that connect with your audience.
2. Create Videos
This tip is not for you if you are in a blind panic. Creating videos doesn’t require expensive equipment or hours of editing. While you might be proud to have written a great article, younger viewers would prefer to see a shorter video with the same information. Video marketing works. It sounds easy, but is there any better reason?
Young people spend hours on their phones every day. You can engage with video by yourself. Display the personality of your educational institution, whether it’s a school, university, or another service.
3. Take a look at the Funnel
You need to remember that funnels are used by educational services as well. A funnel is a marketing model that explains the types of customers you are likely to encounter. Some people are still exploring their options while others are ready to commit to a school.
Therefore, your marketing strategy should be able to meet the needs of everyone in the funnel. You need content to build brand awareness and content that encourages people to choose your service over others.
Create content at each stage of your funnel and analyze it to determine performance. Reach out to people who are considering their options, those who have made a decision, and people who are ready to make a choice.
4. Encourage user-generated content
Every educational institution promotes its service. No university or school ever criticizes their service. Students are used to turning down sales pitches. People won’t listen if you keep promoting your product or service
You need someone else to tell the story. And who is better than people who have already used your service? Ever wonder why universities allow students to share their amazing experiences? It works. Students who are interested in studying want to hear from people who have been in the same situation as them. They want to hear stories that can be applied to their situation.
Yes, testimonials can be a great asset to your website. You can also post student stories and images to social media using user-generated content. Sometimes, a picture of someone playing on the beautiful grass can speak as loudly as a video of a student sharing their experience. Pictures speak a thousand Words. You can encourage prospective students to show images of your campus, including people playing instruments, sports facilities, and the library.
5. Positive Mobile Experiences
It shouldn’t surprise that the world is mobile. You can search the internet whether you’re driving, sleeping, on the couch, waiting in a room, or anywhere else. Your website will not be responsive for mobile devices. This could make your educational institution look sloppy.
There are three options if you’re not sure how your website looks on mobile.
- For assistance, contact a third-party service
- Google Mobile-Friendly Test
- Ask a family member or friend to test the website. They will give objective feedback
6. Encourage reviews
Most people who leave college, school, or online service have had a positive experience. You can help your marketing strategy get a jump-start by asking students to leave positive reviews. Prospective students can also benefit from the same experience by reading online reviews.
Students won’t be motivated to read a 356-page paper if you force them to. You’ll be amazed at the number of students who help you create a fun survey. Ask them to rate the survey with a comment box. If they are not responding quickly, offer an incentive, such as a discount, gift card, or other bonus.
7. Segmented email marketing is a good idea
Now you have some email addresses for potential students. A strong email is all you need to encourage these people to sign up for your school. Unfortunately, the word strong doesn’t describe generic, send-to-all emails. It is a sign that you don’t care and students will move on if you send the same email.
Segmenting your email list is a good idea. A marketing service can help you do this. If you don’t have the time or desire to create a message that resonates, make sure each segment feels like your college, school, or institution is the best option.
8. Pay for digital ads
Paid ads are a common way for businesses to spend money, and this is true even in the education sector. With Facebook, Google, and other social media platforms, we can hyper-target digital ads to ensure that the right people view our ads. Targeting can be done based on intent, demographics, and online behavior.
This strategy will help you succeed. You’ll need to analyze the effectiveness of your ads and make sure they continue to find the right people. The best advertisement in the world will not convert someone who isn’t interested in studying. Make sure that the ad is engaging and that the landing page enhances the positive experience.
9. Extra Tips
These are some tips to market your school in 2021.
- Safety is what students and parents want in this post-COVID world. Describe your COVID protocols, and explain how you plan on keeping all students safe.
- To promote your service and further engage users, create an app.
- You can find answers to common questions from prospective students in Q&A articles and social media posts.
- You can run live videos or virtual tours of your facility. Live videos can be used to explain the technology and answer questions.
Education Marketing is essential in 2021. You now have some advanced techniques to get you started!