universities

6 ways personalization can supercharge alumni engagement

Personalization is the backbone of modern marketing, and alumni engagement is no exception. Already, 80% of U.S. consumers are more likely to purchase from a brand that offers personalized experiences. But, in Cuseum’s November-December 2020 survey of over 150 alumni relations professionals, 77% believed that they need to offer more personalized engagement to their constituents.

That’s a big disconnect!

If you’re interested in getting the lowdown on alumni personalization, we’re here to help. Here, we’ll break down the what, the why, and the how of personalization – let’s dive in!

Unpacking the Big Data Buzz: How Can We Leverage Data in Alumni Engagement?

With all the rumblings about “big data,” industry professionals understand the urgency to start making data-driven decisions, but may be unsure of the benefits, the potential challenges, and how to get started.

Here, we’ll break down the basics of data analytics, what technology you need to get started, top tips to become more data-driven in alumni relations, and the biggest challenges alumni relations professionals face when trying to leverage data. Let’s get into it!

4 Important Alumni Relations Trends Every University Needs to Consider

In recent years, the models and structures that have historically guided alumni relations and alumni engagement have evolved significantly. In light of these changes, universities and alumni associations may be trying to understand what this new landscape looks like and seeking strategies to remain relevant. In order to keep up, alumni organizations need to recognize how conventional modes of engagement are shifting, anticipate changing constituent expectations, and determine how they fit into the new digital landscape. Looking to the present and future, here are four big trends in alumni relations:

7 Ways to Keep Your Alumni Members Engaged During COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of alumni relations, prompting new questions and concerns for university alumni associations. With the onset and continued risks of COVID-19, traditional opportunities for alumni engagement, such as class reunions, March Madness, NCAA football, tailgates, homecoming, in-person social events, alumni chapter meetups, and networking opportunities have been cancelled, or remain in limbo.

Indeed, while many held out hope that fall NCAA football would be a comeback after March Madness was called off, the Big Ten cancelled fall 2020 football in early August, and traditional social events like tailgates and alumni chapter watch parties are being suspended.

Despite the hurdles, alumni engagement is critical for building a university’s reputation and brand, securing donations, and creating community. In response to new challenges and unforeseen circumstances, many alumni associations have adapted by doubling down on their digital engagement strategy, with incredible results.

Here, we will examine the continued importance of an active alumni association for both universities and alumni, along with seven exciting ideas to activate alumni engagement during COVID-19 and beyond.

How Colleges and Universities Turn to Digital to Enhance Alumni Engagement

More than ever before, ensuring alumni engagement and career success are top priorities for colleges and universities. Indeed, as higher education enrollments continue to fall and universities feel heightened pressure to bring in more revenue, active alumni networks not only help institutions of higher education cultivate a compelling brand, but also serve as a vital source of financial support for colleges. 

 According to the latest findings by Salesforce, “the advancement office is fundamental to institutional growth and development” at universities. Additionally, advancement and development staff rely heavily on the generosity and giving of alumni to achieve their fundraising goals and keep their institutions vibrant and afloat. 

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