Bringing the "WOO!" to Fall Marketing for Colleges and Universities

As we approach the fall season, it’s time for colleges and universities to bring the WOO to their marketing efforts. For those not totallyfamiliar with Clifton Strengths Finder, WOO stands for "winning others over," and it's about connecting with people, building rapport, and making a lasting impression. WOO is a key element in man admissions offices. While not everyone has it in their top 5 WOO must be in the top 5 for any admissions or enrollment marketing office. This mindset is exactly what’s needed to energize and elevate your fall marketing campaigns. If you're scratching your head thinking about how to bring the WOO to your campus. Send me a message I may have an idea or two!

1. Leverage Your Brand to Win Others Over

Your brand is the foundation of your institution’s identity (not your logo). To win others over, it’s essential to showcase what makes your college or university unique. Highlight your strengths, traditions, and values. Use your brand as the vehicle to engage prospective students and their families, creating an emotional connection that sets you apart from the competition.

2. Implement Strong, Clear Marketing Messages

Your messaging should resonate with your audience and clearly communicate the benefits of choosing your institution. Whether through storytelling, testimonials, or highlighting outcomes, your messages need to be compelling and aligned with the WOO philosophy. Make sure your communication speaks directly to the needs, aspirations, and concerns of prospective students.

3. Refresh Key Marketing Channels

To truly win others over, it’s crucial to review and update your key marketing channels:

• Video: Video content remains one of the most powerful tools for engagement. Consider updating your video assets to reflect current trends and student interests, whether it’s through virtual campus tours, student testimonials, or dynamic social media clips.
• Print: While digital is king, print materials still play a vital role in marketing, especially during in-person events. Ensure that your brochures, postcards, and mailers are visually appealing and aligned with your overall brand strategy.
• Web: Your website is often the first touchpoint for prospective students. Make sure it’s user-friendly, visually engaging, and loaded with fresh, relevant content. Optimize for mobile and ensure that your key messages are front and center.
• Social Media: Social media platforms are where your target audience lives. Develop campaigns that are interactive, shareable, and reflective of your institution’s energy and community spirit.

4. Embrace the Power of Connection

Fall marketing is all about making connections. Embrace the WOO approach by engaging with your audience wherever they are—whether it's at college fairs, through online chats, or via social media. Ask questions, listen to their needs, and provide answers that build trust and rapport. Remember, it’s not just about reaching people; it’s about winning them over.

Conclusion

This fall, let’s bring the WOO to our marketing strategies. By focusing on strong branding, clear messaging, and refreshing key channels, colleges and universities can create campaigns that resonate, connect, and, most importantly, win others over. After all, there are new students to meet, new conversations to start, and new relationships to build.

How are you bringing the WOO to your fall marketing efforts? I’d love to hear your strategies and ideas!