A Common Conversation: How to Build Strong Relationships by Engaging in Consistent, Student-Centric Conversations Throughout the Entire Enrollment Process

As competition increases and students adapt their college search process, it has become more and more difficult for institutions to stand out in this crowded market. And, students have a number of factors they consider in their decision-making process—ranging from tuition and academic reputation to job prospects and relevant degree programs. Yet, maybe the most obvious but often overlooked factor is the relationship a student builds with their admission counselor. But, how do you build trust with a prospective student even during a brief introductory phone call? It starts by taking the conversation far beyond the “checkboxes” on the application and start listening, relating to, and addressing their needs and concerns.

Then, it is important to think about the information we are conveying. As enrollment professionals, we tend to use a lot of terms and acronyms, but does the student understand what these mean? The admission team, as well as all of the individuals on campus who interact with applicants, should employ a consistent, easy-to-understand language to help students understand key information and gain more comfort during the process. In this session, we will discuss best practices and tools for engaging in more effective conversations with students, as well as highlight how Kennebec Valley Community College employed these strategies to improve yield for their post-traditional, adult student population.

Paul Kramer, Collegis Education

Brief Bio

As director of student experience at Collegis Education, Paul has developed and led best-in-class training and guidance initiatives to public and private colleges and universities for over 14 years including Capella University and Rasmussen College. He brings passion and experience to his coaching efforts, which are geared specifically to each institution and are rooted in that institution’s brand message, programmatic value propositions, and funnel conversion.

ACHE 2016

October 17–19, 2016

New Orleans, Louisiana