Just like that, the holidays are nearing, Q4 is in full swing, and soon you’ll be tasked with answering some big questions about the year ahead. Undoubtedly, you’ll be faced with some questions about future marketing goals and plans. Before the panic sets in and objectives, strategies and tactics haunt you at night, take a step back. Ask yourself some questions and reflect on 2019. How did your marketing plan perform? Did your organization follow through on most ideas? Were your goals reasonable and attainable?
If you think some improvements could be made for 2020, consider taking a new approach to not only what’s inside your marketing plan, but also the type of plan you’re creating. Read on to learn more about different types of marketing plans and how each one can help your educational institution reach its goals.
Product or Service Launch Plan
Does your institution plan on introducing someone or something new in 2020? From opening a new student resource center to welcoming a new professor or director, this type of marketing plan lets your audience know that something new is on the horizon, as well as educates them about the features and benefits. This type of plan should be completed at least six months prior to the product or service launch.
Niche Marketing Plan
Maybe you want to speak directly to part-time students about weekend course offerings, or you need to inform incoming freshman about your advising process. With a niche marketing plan, you can develop tactics that will speak directly to your target audience. By zeroing in on one group of people, you can explore focused messaging strategies and utilize channels used most by that specific demographic. It’s recommended to develop niche marketing plans annually.
Digital Marketing Plan
Yes, it’s important for any industry to have a well-developed digital marketing plan. But as an educational institution, your students, and potential students, are using the internet and multiple social platforms daily. With a digital marketing plan, you can catch your target audience when it counts – while they’re scrolling through posts or skipping between songs. It’s a good idea to develop this plan annually and review it monthly or quarterly.
No matter your 2020 goals, set your educational institution up for success by giving a new, more focused marketing plan (or plans!) a try. If you’re looking for an experienced partner to assist in developing your plan, contact us today!
Sources: https://www.bolgerinc.com/fall-2018/