How Schools, Colleges And EdTech Brands In India Can Use Instagram And Facebook To Attract More Students

In the past, selecting a school or college meant gathering brochures, touring campuses and talking to with admission counsellors. All these things still apply, but no longer first. The trip is typically online these days.

Whether a student is considering an MBA course, parents are thinking about which school to place their child, or an individual is considering an online certification course, they will surely have some time to research before making an enquiry. They go to the official site, read the reviews, do some research on institutions, and then they go to Instagram or Facebook.

It isn't because they're looking for another advertisement. They're looking for something more genuine.

They wish to learn about the campus on an average day. They want to see students at events, teachers in classrooms, placements, workshops, competitions and even the little things they can't put in a brochure. Such short run-in's tend to tell more about an institution than pages of promotion. That's a huge opportunity for schools, colleges and EdTech brands.

Social media is now an integral part of the admission process. Whether it's a well-formulated Instagram feed or an active Facebook page, a thoughtful page can help people feel connected to your institution before they ever have the chance to speak to someone on your admissions team.

Students Want A Real Picture, Not A Perfect One

When it comes to college decisions, most students aren't drawn to a single ad. They take time to consider their choices, research institutions, and imagine where they will fit in.

It's here that social media subtly plays a part in their choice.

Courses, eligibility, and fee structures can be explained on a college's website. Instagram, however, gives a glimpse of what those classrooms are really like. Facebook showcases community events, student accomplishments, alumni success stories, and interactions within the community. Together they help people to understand the culture, not just the curriculum.

So do parents. They don't bother with rankings and facilities. They are sensitive to student involvement, approachability of teachers, and activity of the institution throughout the year. Their first impression is affected by even small things.

Regularly updated accounts that contain relevant content convey a sense of vitality and engagement with the local community to the people who follow the account. It's much more comforting than a page brimming with admission notices.

Let People Experience Your Institution Before They Visit It

The best education brands seldom mention admissions in every post.

Rather, they recount stories.

Some day it could be the students that present innovative projects. It may be the next day's cultural festival's highlights or a faculty member discussing about an industry trend or an alumnus talking about how the institution has helped define their career. Audiences relate to authenticity, and these moments are authentic because they are a part of the students' daily lives on campus.

EdTech companies can do the same. They can post about any course promotion, but they can also use this space to post quick learning tips, industry updates, tips from the instructor, or success stories from students. This type of information is valuable to them first, and they'll be more confident in enrolling at a later time.

Social media becomes less about marketing and more about real life when it doesn't constantly promote products. It's a look into your school, and that can make all the difference when it comes to getting a student to want to move forward.

Keep Showing Up - That's What Builds Trust

Social media isn't a medium that people only see once. It is not something they detect right away.

Suppose that one of your students finds your college today. They may not be applicable right now. In the coming weeks, they could pop back onto Instagram to see some of your Reels, watch Facebook updates, or post something with their parents. Each time they interact with your institution, they make an impression.

If your page is active, they will discover new stories, new successes, classroom activities, placement news, and events that show you what's going on at school. However, if the last post has been six months ago, it sends a different message – even if the institution is doing great work.

That is why it is more crucial to be consistent than following trends.

It's not necessary to post every day or make complicated videos for each event. By sharing genuine moments frequently, you're able to keep your viewers engaged. With the small changes over time, a profile of an active, welcoming, students-progress-focused institution emerges.

Every Post Should Lead Somewhere

Good social media doesn't end at getting likes or comments. It should be able to nudge people towards the next step without forcing them.

Not all posts must include the "Register Now" button. Sometimes it's as simple as sending people to read a detailed blog, explore your courses, attend an upcoming webinar or book a counselling session. People will be much more likely to do the next step if it's relevant, especially when it is appropriate for them.

This is the same for your marketing plan as a whole. The best use of social media is to integrate it with your website, landing pages, email campaigns and admission process. They are mutually supportive of one another and don't operate on their own.

If you're looking to beef up your online marketing campaign, take a look at our Social Media Marketing Services. We offer strategies for schools, colleges and EdTech brands to help them move beyond the simple act of posting to engage in meaningful interaction that helps students join their institution and build brand visibility.

Conclusion

Instagram and Facebook have turned into a lot more than a platform for announcements. They are one of the initial destinations students and parents look to find out about an institution.

But that's why the content you share is important.

A properly prepared class discussion, a student's success, an interview with a faculty member or a simple look at what happens on the campus of a school can be more memorable than a flawless ad. These are opportunities to engage with your institution on a personal level and build trust that will enable your people to take the next step.

Creating this kind of trust takes time, of course, but it doesn't need to come at a high price. It begins with showing up, storytelling and building content that is actually helpful for those who you're seeking to help.

For those who want to make their social media accounts a better student recruitment tool, check out our Social Media Marketing Services. We will help you develop a plan that will resonate with the right people, instill confidence, and be effective in your path to admission.