How do you use storytelling to connect with potential applicants?

Eu gosto de usar o storytelling para contar histórias reais que mostram a cultura da empresa, desafios que a equipe superou e como os valores da organiza??o se refletem no dia a dia. Isso ajuda a criar uma conex?o genuína, fazendo o candidato se sentir parte de algo maior, e n?o só um número. Quando a pessoa se vê na história, é mais fácil se identificar com a miss?o e os objetivos da empresa.

The key to powerful storytelling in admissions lies in understanding the critical dimensions of your audience. Most admissions professionals focus on who applicants are, but I've found it's more crucial to understand who they aspire to become. Through thousands of consultations, I've observed that applicants aren't just seeking degrees – they're seeking identity transformation. When we understand this aspirational identity, our stories can bridge the gap between their current state and future vision. International students, for instance, aren't just seeking global exposure – they're navigating complex intersections of their cultural heritage and professional ambitions. Our stories must speak to these nuanced intersections.

FOR STUDENTS: Knowing the values and specific 'tastes' of institutions you're applying to is key. Check the school's website for missions and value statements, then connect those to the particular parts of the program that resonate with you. This will increase the likelihood of being admitted because they will view you as likely to accept an offer if you make a compelling argument about why you fit there. FOR SCHOOLS: Knowing your audience is crucial. I'm a firm believer of allocating time to ACTUALLY TALK WITH your prospective students. Cut out an hour every two weeks to talk with current and prospective students.

I'd craft a real-time, multi-platform narrative starring current students and alums to engage potential applicants through storytelling. Utilizing Instagram stories, TikTok series, and interactive podcasts, we can share their genuine journeys—triumphs, challenges, and day-to-day moments. We'll also host live "Choose Your Own Adventure" events, allowing applicants to influence the storyline and become part of the experience. Additionally, a virtual reality (VR) campus tour narrated by students will give a first-person view of campus life. Combining emotional storytelling with cutting-edge technology will create a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with prospective students.

To connect with potential applicants through storytelling, use videos of current or past graduates who are relatable to the students you want to attract. Share their stories about what they loved about your school, the challenges they faced, and how they succeeded. When students see others like them who have been successful, it helps them imagine their own future at your school. These real stories make your message more powerful and personal, helping you build a strong connection with potential applicants.

In my experience guiding MBA applicants, the most compelling stories aren't always about success – they're about transformation. There are broadly three types of narratives that consistently resonate: The Identity Story - Shows how personal background shaped unique approaches to challenges. These stories connect cultural experiences with professional insights. The Growth Story - Reveals learning from setbacks. The focus isn't on the failure itself, but on the insights gained and subsequent growth. The Vision Story - Links past experiences with future aspirations, demonstrating how the program fits into a larger journey.

FOR STUDENTS: Applicant should reflect on a few of their personal stories to share during the application process. They should be the highs and lows of your life, and what make you special. If they're true for many other, DON'T WRITE ABOUT THAT. FOR SCHOOLS: Choosing success stories to inspire applicants who may be motivated by your extracurricular activities, stellar faculty, arts, STEM is necessary. Map out the archetypes of students and make sure you're covering all your bases. When you think a prospective student may be interested in a success story, reach out to them personally to share that story, and how it could be them in the future. Video > written testimonials in this day and age.

Selecting the right stories is about aligning them with what my audience truly cares about. I draw from the rich history and successes of our program, focusing on authentic and relevant experiences. For example I might share a story of how one of our alumni who was once unsure about their career path finally found clarity and success through our MBA program. I try to connect with applicants on a deeper level.

Uncertain Goals, No Major Challenges: Start with a narrative that showcases your curiosity and varied interests. Demonstrate your openness to exploring different fields, highlighting any experiences that sparked new interests. Uncertain Goals, Major Challenges: Begin with the life challenge you've faced, setting the stage for how it's impacted you. Describe how experiences have influenced your thought process and sparked a desire to explore possibilities. Clear Goals, No Major Challenges: Clear statement of your goals and the moment you discovered your passion. Detail your experiences and achievements, emphasizing how they align with your plans. Clear Goals, Major Challenges: ( get in touch for details)

While STAR is foundational, I suggest a more powerful framework called IMPACT for crafting compelling admissions narratives: Insight: Start with the key realization that sparked change Moment: Present the pivotal challenge Perspective: Share your unique approach Action: Detail strategic choices Change: Show immediate results Transformation: Reveal lasting impact This structure helps applicants showcase not just what they did, but how experiences shaped their journey.

In college admissions, storytelling serves as a powerful tool to resonate with potential applicants. By crafting narratives that highlight personal growth, challenges overcome, and passions pursued, we create a compelling connection. Sharing authentic experiences through essays or interviews allows applicants to showcase their unique journeys, aspirations, and contributions they hope to make to the campus community. This approach not only humanizes the application process but also helps admissions teams understand the individual behind the transcripts and test scores, fostering a more holistic view of each applicant's potential and fit within the institution.

When structuring stories, especially for MBA applicants, it's all about building a relatable narrative. The STAR method is a perfect tool to do this. Start by setting the scene with a challenge or opportunity that many candidates face. Walk your audience through the actions the protagonist took to overcome it like refining their story for the admissions essays or seeking advice from mentors. F Finally, highlight the results. Landing an interview, getting accepted or even securing a scholarship. Using this structure not only makes your stories clear and compelling but also positions you as someone who truly understands the MBA journey.

When engaging with potential admissions applicants, I find storytelling to be a powerful tool. I share vivid stories about students who have thrived at our institution, painting a picture of their experiences and achievements. For instance, I recount the journey of a student who overcame challenges and achieved their dreams with the support of our community. These narratives help applicants envision their own future here, making our institution's values and opportunities tangible. By weaving personal stories into our conversations, we create an emotional connection that resonates far beyond statistics and facts, making our message memorable and impactful.

To really engage potential MBA applicants, you need to share your stories across multiple platforms. But it’s not just about posting. It’s about how you tell the story. Use visuals like a short video of a recent admit sharing their success or a behind-the-scenes look at the application process. On platforms like LinkedIn, clear, concise, and jargon-free language works best. Don’t hesitate to inject a little humor or personal emotion. Maybe a lighthearted anecdote about the ups and downs of preparing for GMAT or writing essays. Also, don’t forget to include a strong call to action at the end, like “Book a free consultation today” or “Find out how I can help you craft your winning MBA application.”

Along with expressing stories and understanding my audience I always consider the emotional impact of my narrative. I often share anecdotes about how our community supports students through difficult times or how our network helped alumni achieve their dreams. These additional layers make my stories more relatable and compelling. This helps in driving a stronger connection with my prospective applicants.