If you’re marketing for a college or university, you know that the competition for applicants is steeper than ever. Every higher education institution aspires to be students’ top choice—so how do you ensure your school stacks up against the competition? The answer might just lie in your university’s direct mail strategy.
By using direct mail to communicate with prospective college students, your organization can reach more students who are exploring their academic futures. With the right direct mail campaign, you can personalize the decision-making process for potential applicants to your school.
How Direct Mail for Higher Education Can Streamline the College Applicant Journey
The college admissions process can be overwhelming and confusing for students, especially because they typically receive information from multiple schools. Direct mail marketing can help simplify this journey for the students by providing them with targeted and personalized communications, which also helps your school to stand out above digital noise.
Partnering with a professional direct mail marketing consultant can also significantly enhance your college’s applicant journey. Direct mail experts will tailor strategies to amplify your outreach, ensuring each piece of mail you send is impactful and engaging. Let’s take a closer look at how a professional direct mail marketing approach can streamline the college applicant journey.
Step 1: Fostering Initial Engagement
Direct mail allows colleges to capture the attention of potential students. By delivering personalized and visually appealing materials, institutions can make a strong first impression. This initial engagement can pique a student’s curiosity and introduce the unique qualities and opportunities your college offers, forming a solid foundation for future communication.
Step 2: Providing Valuable Information
After establishing initial contact, university mail becomes a vital tool for conveying detailed, specific information. Colleges can deliver brochures or flyers covering unique programs, extracurricular activities, and distinctive aspects of campus culture.
This gives students and their families a glimpse into life on campus so they can picture themselves as a part of your community. It also encourages further exploration and research into the school, increasing the likelihood of a completed application.
Step 3: Building a Connection
Through tailored direct mail, your institution can establish an emotional connection with potential applicants. A professional consultant can help you write about examples of real-life success stories to boost students’ confidence in their decision to apply. Include examples of:
- Impactful alumni stories
- Successful graduates and their career paths
- Inspiring achievements of current students
- Unique experiences or opportunities offered by your institution
Step 4: Encouraging Campus Visits
Go beyond written communication by inviting recipients to campus events and tours. Quality calls-to-action in your direct mail materials can entice students to visit your campus. Experiencing your campus for themselves is often a deciding factor for applicants, as they can explore classrooms, walk around their potential dorm, and interact with faculty and current students.
Step 5: Guiding Through the Application Process
Your mail can also provide step-by-step guidance on completing your school’s application, helping students to feel informed and confident before they apply. To cut down on students’ overwhelm and increase the likelihood that they submit their application, add the following:
- Clear instructions on how to apply to your school
- QR codes with links to online applications
- Deadline reminders and important dates
- Contact information for admissions counselors who can provide more personal assistance
This structured support will ultimately boost your application numbers and highlight your school’s dedication to guiding students through the admissions process and, ultimately, their education.
Build the Perfect Direct Mail Strategy With CPMI Solutions
Unlock the full potential of your higher education institution’s outreach with CPMI Solutions. Our team excels in crafting personalized mail for college students and prospective college students. We’ll collaborate with you and your school to craft innovative and data-driven campaigns that amplify your reach and influence. You can trust CPMI Solutions to inspire student interest and drive action.
Want to increase your college’s visibility and leave a lasting impression? Contact our professional consultants today.
