Reimagining the Admissions Landscape Of International Schools

The admissions landscape in international schools is constantly evolving, and 2024 promises to be no different. As technology advances and buyer behaviour shifts, admissions counsellors need to adapt their strategies to stay ahead of the curve. Here are some of the top sales trends that are poised to shape the year ahead:

The Rise of AI in Sales

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept in sales. It is now being used by businesses of all sizes to automate tasks, gain insights into customer data, and personalize the sales experience. For example, AI-powered chatbots can qualify leads, schedule appointments, and answer basic customer questions, freeing up admissions counsellors to focus on more complex tasks. In Singapore, international schools like the United World College of Southeast Asia (UWCSEA) are using AI to personalize the admissions process, providing prospective students with tailored information and resources based on their individual needs and interests.

The Importance of Sales and Marketing Alignment

Gone are the days when sales and marketing operated in silos. In today's competitive landscape, it is essential for these two teams to be aligned on their goals and strategies. This means sharing data, collaborating on campaigns, and ensuring that the buyer journey is seamless from start to finish. For instance, One World International School (OWIS) has implemented a joint sales and marketing program that leverages social media marketing, targeted email campaigns, and personalized outreach to reach prospective families and convert them into enrolled students.

The Empowered Buyer

Today's buyers are more informed than ever before. They have access to a wealth of information online and are often using AI-powered tools to do their research before speaking to an admissions counsellor. This means that admission counsellors need to be prepared to have more consultative conversations and provide valuable insights that buyers can't find on their own. For example, East Asian School of Business (EASB), are hosting regular webinars and workshops on topics relevant to their target audience, such as preparing for university applications or navigating the complexities of the international education system.

The Focus on Customer Success

In 2024, it will be more important than ever for businesses to focus on customer success. This means going beyond simply closing deals and ensuring that customers are satisfied with their purchase. It involves providing ongoing support, building relationships, and proactively identifying and addressing customer needs. As an example, the Global Indian International School (GIIS) in Singapore has a dedicated customer success team that works closely with parents to ensure that their children are thriving in the school environment.

The Freemium Model

The freemium model, which offers a basic level of service for free with the option to upgrade to a paid plan for additional features, is becoming increasingly popular in the sales world. This model can be a great way to attract new customers and give them a taste of what your product or service can offer. For example, some language learning apps offer a limited number of lessons for free, but users need to subscribe to access the full range of features and content. Similarly, some international schools in Singapore, such as the Inlingua International School, offer free trial classes or open house events to give prospective families a chance to experience their learning environment first-hand.

These are just a few of the current sales trends that are expected to shape the landscape in 2024. By embracing these trends and adapting their strategies accordingly, admissions counsellors can increase their chances of success in the ever-changing world of sales within the international school environment.

Additional Tips for Success in 2024

·?????? Invest in sales training and development.?As the admissions landscape evolves,?it is important for admissions counsellors to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices.

·?????? Build strong relationships with your customers.?In an age of automation,?personal relationships are more important than ever.?Take the time to get to know your customers and understand their needs.

·?????? Be data-driven.?Use data to track your progress,?identify areas for improvement,?and make informed decisions.

·?????? Be flexible and adaptable.?The admissions landscape is constantly changing,?so be prepared to adjust your strategies as needed.

Overall, the five trends share here may have a major impact in the way that international schools are enrolling students. By understanding and adapting to these trends, international schools can ensure that they are well-positioned to succeed in the competitive market for international education.