(ARTS Blog-3) 14 ways to connect with your alumni

Connecting with alumni requires a diverse set of communication channels to reach different segments of your alumni community. Here are some communication channels you can use to keep your alumni informed and, in some cases, engaged:

1. Email: Email is a versatile channel for sending newsletters, event invitations, updates, success stories, and personalized messages. Segment your email list to send targeted content based on alumni interests and engagement levels.

2. Social Media: Utilize platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram to share news, updates, alumni stories, event information, and engage in discussions. Create alumni-specific groups or pages for focused interactions. Note that your social media can be managed through a portal to be more efficient.

3. Alumni Network Website: Maintain a dedicated website for your alumni network. Share event details, success stories, alumni profiles, and resources. Incorporate online forms for data updates and event registration.

4. Mobile Apps: Develop a mobile app for your alumni community, enabling them to access updates, and event information, and network with fellow alumni on the go.

5. Alumni Engagement Platform: Provide a platform where alumni can log in to access exclusive content, update their information, connect with other alumni, and engage in discussions.

6. Webinars and Online Workshops: Host webinars, workshops, and online seminars on topics of interest to your alumni. This provides valuable learning opportunities and a platform for networking.

7. Alumni Events and Reunions: Use physical events and reunions to bring alumni together. Send invitations through various channels and share event updates and highlights afterward.

8. Newsletters: Regularly send out newsletters containing updates about the school, alumni achievements, upcoming events, and relevant news.

9. Podcasts and Videos: Create podcasts or video content featuring alumni success stories, interviews, career advice, and discussions on relevant topics. Remember to post them wherever you can!

10. SMS and Instant Messaging: Use text messages or instant messaging apps to send short updates, event reminders, and urgent announcements

11. Peer-to-Peer Networks: Encourage alumni to reach out to their peers and classmates through personal messages, calls, and referrals.

12. Alumni Chapters and Local Groups: If your alumni are dispersed across regions, create local chapters or groups for localized engagement. Use local events, meet-ups, and social media to coordinate activities.

13. Alumni Surveys: Conduct surveys to gather feedback, preferences, and ideas from alumni, showing that their opinions are valued.

14. Peer-to-Peer Ambassadors: Recruit active alumni as ambassadors to help spread the word, engage their fellow alumni, and promote events and initiatives.

Select the channels that align with your alumni’s preferences and communication habits. A multi-channel approach will ensure that you effectively engage a diverse group of alumni and keep them connected to your school’s community.