College students are a desired group of consumers that have unbreakable loyalties to brands they know and trust. However, this is not to be dissuaded that they cannot be convinced to try new brands. If a business has the opportunity to connect with college students and tell them their story, they can establish consumer relationships that will last long after graduation. How does a startup compete with the many big name brands out in the marketing space? Here are some tips to get your startup on college students’ radar.
- Make a video
Websites such as Netflix and YouTube are commonly frequented by college students during study breaks and are a staple for entertainment. Businesses should take advantage of their interest on these platforms by providing short videos that reel students in. Geoffrey Fox, the CEO of Flippze, said “Videos are an effective way of communicating to college students – informative, fun and entertaining.” The company released a four-week video campaign on YouTube to help promote Flippze at different colleges. Create how-to videos on topics of interest for students such as dorm decorating or how to survive finals week.
- Consider their budget by offering student discounts
Because college students are usually limited on funds, they’ll often seek out companies that offer student discounts. While some businesses might think this tactic may only apply to restaurants or movie theatres, this is not true. If you are marketing to students, let them know they can obtain a student discount on your product or service – or send out discounts via brand ambassadors.
- Place an ad in the student newspaper
While social media is still a large hit with college students, traditional media should not be overlooked when it comes to marketing to students. Many college students are avid readers of their print and online campus newspaper. In fact, one study shows that 72-80% of students read their campus newspaper.
- Visit classes or clubs
Startup founders are a great source of expertise for college student future entrepreneurs. Therefore, in order to get your business on the radar, visit classes, clubs or host speaker events at different campuses.
- Recruit brand ambassadors
College students are always willing and able to snatch up part-time jobs to spread the word about different brands to their peers. Recruit ambassadors to hand out samples, discounts and free swag to their classmates at frequented campus hangouts or high foot traffic areas.
