I agree, it is very important to nurture the student/admissions relationship. . . cards, phone calls, emails, text messages, a quick chat during their class break. It makes the world of difference!
Christy,
Texting is a very common communication tool. Do you find they respond quicker?
I think its very important to keep contact with students after they enroll. Some of my students prefer phone calls and some prefer emails so you have to tailor it to the students preferences. Text messaging is also a another good way to touch base with students! We have a new feature that allows us to text students via our email server and my students (especially the younger ones) love it!
PS- the student does consent via a form during the admissions process to receive text messages!
Ben,
The students establish a relationship with their admissions rep. It is very important to follow up past orientation.
Following up occasionally is critical for making sure the student feels like someone is behind them through the whole process. Maybe once a month meeting them by their class and making sure that they don't have any issues that are not being addressed. Also, attending graduation is a great way to complete the process.
Brian,
You need to be receptive to their continued desire for contact.
Carl,
Absolutely...follow-up is very important.
Lauren,
Thank you for your post!
Lyell,
Emails tend to be seen quicker. Phone calls come with caller ID these days and may or may not be taken.
Brian,
I think you have to make a judgment call on who to contact and when.
Analays,
Each situation calls for a different protocol. No one wants to feel pressured. No one wants to feel harassed. For some a birthday call is welcomed, for others it may be well over the top of professional contact.
John,
Student activities are fun ways to bring new prospects to the school.
I call at least every other week as well as invite them to any school activities
I disagree completely with you, because I think after the student is enrolled, as admissions representatives we must be only calling students to remind them FA appointments, confirm orientation dates or let them know about any update which is necessary to communicate
We have to make sure that they have created all the conditions in order to meet its future obligations
Students should not feel harassed, but welcome to the institution where they will be forming their education, I think we should always be kind and very professional, but without forgetting the seriousness it takes to build a career and succeed
i like to use emails and phone calls. I feel mail outs tend to be a waste of time and are not efficient use of our time.
Following up weekly or biweekly is the best way to make sure you student is still enagaged and ready to better their education. Inviting students to events on campus, sending welcome letters and engaging the students attention until school starts will help ensure your student is ready to begin their future education.
I find that following up every week is works best. Things can change over time and it's important to keep the student updated, and make sure that they are well informed.
Brian--what insight you have!
