best way to get on contact with inactive grads...
one of the ways that I contact inactive grads is by just texting them by saying "hello John and good afternoon. how is it going?" and just wait for their reply of "good. who is this?" thats i have been calling the right number(since most of the time their voice mail is not set-up of their you will only hear the machine and not them stating their name). So try to set up a google voice/text number!
Nowadays we count with great resources to be in contact with our students. Now; the approach, the right words, message is what really counts. Motivational thoughts or quotes from celebrities or outstanding figures in the history of mankind should be used to set the inspirational flame up in those students with lack of confidence. I believe it works for everyone.
Noah,
We also believe in the importance of strong relationships with students from the time of enrollment to graduation and then past graduation. This helps to ensure graduate success and placement. It is very important to continue staying in contact with graduates - your Alumni Community. In that way you can monitor job placement and continue to assist grads. Alumni can be a source of enrollment, help with retention, and placement. Thanks, Susan
Dr. Susan Schulz
I agree. The best way to keep in touch with graduates is to form an early relationship with them while in school.
Theresa,
Great to use social media as well as regular emails to students with job links. We suggest that you call students and grads more regularly than just once a week. If you wait a month they might have a new address of phone number. Always worth texting or trying anything to get attention. Word of mouth is great. That means you have provided an awesome training experience. Thanks, Susan
Dr. Susan Schulz
I agree that you need to use social media. But one thing we do is send weekly emails with job links for their job search and try to call all of them monthly as well. But then you get the ones whose phone numbers are disconnected or mailbox full or not set up. We have not tried texting yet or facebook. Sometimes word of mouth when other students stop in that have graduated with them helps.
Tasha,
We agree that it is essential to stay in touch with all graduates and on a regular basis. There are many ways to do it such as social media. What is important is to connect with grads so you don't lose track of them. We suggest starting before graduation and then monthly. Be sure your messages are interesting and engaging. Form an Alumni Community and engage grads in events at your school. They will refer students, help in the classroom, and tell you where the jobs are. Thanks, Susan
Dr. Susan Schulz
I have gotten in touch with my recent grads through face book or other sources of media.
Shawn,
The secret to staying in touch with graduates and Alumni is to start establishing contact prior to graduation and persist in staying in touch. Alumni are your best resources and you need graduate information such as placement to report to your regulatory agencies. Yes, there are many avenues to stay in touch as well and often all of those have to be used. Life is easier when you stay in contact and keep track of ever changing phone numbers and addresses! MaxK has a course on setting of Alumni Associations. Thanks, Susan
Dr. Susan Schulz
I agree completely with your statement about using alternative methods to contact inactive grads - especially with all of the resources currently at our disposal with the internet and social media. I can't tell you how many of our graduates career services have been able to re-establish contact with through social media, helping to assist in their job-seeking activities.
isaac,
These are good ideas. You might want to call half of them and give your name and the reason you are calling. Let your grads know that you are there to assist them, whatever their goals are. Once you do get them on the phone you can talk about why they are not pursuing a job. Perhaps they do not feel prepared or confident. They might need more coaching and extra hand-holding. It is your job to put a plan in place to assist students in the job search process. It takes a lot of effort and time but you will see results. You might also contact inactive grads in a variety of ways - text, social media, mail, etc. The goal is to reach them. Thanks, Susan
Dr. Susan Schulz
