CHEC on this

New and Improved

2008-01-07T12:48:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone!

Just a quick note to say that we're currently putting together a master plan to relaunch the CHEC blog. I've got some ideas but If any of you have comments, suggestions, etc as to how we can best use this blog as a resource for all Christian Higher Ed Recruiters e-mail me personally.

In the meantime keep checking back (no pun intended) as we'll be up and running again in not too long. I hope you all had a great break and are looking forward to a great winter season.

See you on the road!

Tim

Maternity leave position posted for Columbia Bible College

2007-10-01T12:09:00.000-06:00

Admissions Counsellor
The Admissions Counsellor is a full-time position, one of our frontline positions focused on helping the College to present the CBC option to prospective students and their families, create a cohort of interested students, assist applicants through the admissions cycle, and provide input on the Orientation team.
See the job description for more details at http://www.columbiabc.edu/facultystaff/employment.html
Agreement with CBC’s mission statement, Responsibilities of Community Membership and Confession of Faith is essential.Please note that this is a one year maternity leave coverage. Please forward resume by November 1, 2007 to:
melanie.olfert@columbiabc.edu or mail to:
Director of Admissions
Columbia Bible College
2940 Clearbrook Rd.
Abbotsford, BC V2T 2Z8
Fax: (604) 853-3063

New Program Coordinator

2007-07-03T10:05:00.000-06:00

An Announcement from Al Hiebert, PhD, CHEC Executive Director:

The Enrolment Marketing Facilitation Team (EMFT) of Christian Higher Education Canada (CHEC) is pleased to announce that Julie Scott has accepted appointment as the Program Coordinator, starting July 16, 2007, for the term of Dayna Chu's maternity leave.

Julie's involvement in Christian Higher Education began at Tyndale University College, where she graduated in 2002 with a Bachelor of Religious Studies, Humanities & Social Sciences; soon after that she began her career in admissions at Tyndale University College. Julie comes to this position with experience as a Christian College and University Fairs (CCUFairs) participant, leadership team member, and seminar presenter over the course of the past 5 years. She recently completed her Bachelor of Arts, Honours History, at the University of Waterloo.

Julie's role will include promotion, coordination, and leadership of the 2007 CCUFairs, as well as facilitation of the marketing, promotion, and planning of the 2008 CCUFairs.

For inquiries while we are in this transition time, please continue to contact Dayna at her office number in Calgary: 403-313-2486 or email ccufairs[at]checanada.ca.

Please join me in congratulating Julie on the appointment of her new role; she can be reached by email at scottjul[at]gmail.com

Who told you about us again?

2007-05-31T15:41:00.000-06:00

Let's say my chiropractor is amazing (which he is, by the way) and so I tell everyone about him. Say one of those friends that I tell decides to go based on my recommendation. They make an appointment, it comes and in they go. When they get to the counter, one of the questions they're asked is "how did you find out about our office?" That friend then answers, "My good friend Stacey is one of your patients and she said I should come in and visit," or something of the sort. The receptionist makes a note on my file and the next time I go for an adjustment, I get it for free just because I referred that friend. Fun, huh!?

Or let's say that you've got an insurance company that gave you a great deal on your new home insurance policy (perhaps a little more far hypothetical) and you tell your friends about it. One of your friends decides to purchase a policy through the same company and gives your name when asked who refers them. Shortly after, you receive a gift certificate for two at some nice hotel with a nice little note thanking you for sending customers their way.

What I'm talking about, if you haven't guessed, is referral incentives. All sorts of companies use them to manufacture "buzz" around whatever they're promoting, to further motivate satisfied customers to spread the word.

Is there room for doing the same thing in marketing higher education?

We all hope that our alumni are satisfied customers and are referring potential students our way. We hope that our current students are encouraging their friends to join them.

What do you do to further motivate your satisfied customers to spread the word about your institution? Do you use any type of referral incentives?

At ABC, we're working on it. We haven't done much in the past but would like to encourage our alumni and current students to continue doing what they do and raise the bar a little bit by providing some positive reinforcement.

Any ideas?

Oh, and if you're in Calgary and looking for a good chiropractor, I know one. I'd be happy to pass on his name to you!

YC 2007 Slideshow

2007-05-27T20:59:00.001-06:00

16,000 attendees... 12 CHEC member institutions... Good times!

HIRING: Program Coordinator

2007-05-18T10:43:00.000-06:00

The Enrolment/Marketing Facilitation Team of Christian Higher Education Canada is still accepting applications for the Program Coordinator position.

Hours worked per week varies

The main duties are to execute the administrative work associated with the EMFT, including the promotion and execution of the Christian College and University Fairs and other duties as outlined in this document. Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate is hired. Please send cover letter and resume to nstemmler@checanada.ca. Electronic applications only.

Nova Scotia Graduate Intentions Survey (2006)

2007-05-16T20:12:00.000-06:00

Hey, here's an interesting survey I came across from Nova Scotia. One tidbit:

"...students who planned to attend a private career college were the group with the highest proportion of students planning to leave Nova Scotia." (p.6, 2006 High School Graduate Intentions Survey Report)

Check it out for more interesting findings.

~D

Sneak Peek

2007-05-03T12:46:00.000-06:00

Here you go folks: the 2007 CCUFairs "look"... created in cooperation with the CCUFairs Advisory Team.

The club card (watch for these at YC Edmonton, I will be distributing them to CHEC member institutions that are participating on the fairs)... this is the front and back of one card. They won't have a white border, they are regular business card size, and they intentionally do not include the year on them as we will use them throughout the year and into next.

The Displays (to be revealed at YC Edmonton as well... generously sponsored through partnership with Zibit Displays www.zibit.com)

The brochure, poster, and website will all have very tight branding with this look as well. The website updates are expected to be complete before June 1 (in coordination with the promo that will happen at YC Edmonton... this will be pushing traffic to the site).

I am very excited about some of our partnerships that are on board as well; I look forward to announcing them as they become official.

Pacebook...

2007-05-03T12:03:00.000-06:00

Pacebook... as in pace yourself... anybody addicted to the networking phenomenon that is "Facebook"? Have you been using it as a recruitment tool? How?

"Facebook is a social utility that connects you with the people around you." Simple enough. How can you be more effective at connecting with those around you, as it relates to your job as a recruiter? Create events and invite prospects? Where is the line on invasion of privacy?

Just some thoughts. While you're perusing, add me as your friend :)

~Dayna

macleans.ca/education

2007-05-02T09:20:00.000-06:00

Canada's first online portal for complete coverage of universities and colleges: macleans.ca/universities

    TORONTO, May 2 /CNW/ - Canada's most comprehensive online destination
site for current and potential post-secondary students has finally arrived.
Announcing the launch of macleans.ca/university, the first website in Canada
to offer continuously updated higher education news, from campuses across the
country. Already recognized for its expertise in the coverage of universities
and education, Maclean's has extended that same reputation in this latest
online presence - with the up-to-the-minute analysis, interactivity and
points-of-view today's digital consumers are looking for. It's an essential
resource for students and recent graduates looking to make educational
decisions... more

How do we make this happen for Christian Higher Education in Canada? It's about time isn't it?

How Not to Enhance Your Selling Features...

2007-04-18T18:25:00.000-06:00

CCUFairs: Biggest Tour Ever!

2007-04-17T13:52:00.000-06:00

The Montreal & Maritimes leg of the fairs is a go! We currently have 14 members committed, and a couple of “maybes” yet.

The CCUFairs will cover 2,500 kms on the western fairs (Winnipeg to Victoria), over 1,000 kms in Ontario, and over 1,500 kms in eastern Canada... 5,000 kms of Canada!

With that good news, if you are still considering adding any leg of the fairs, and have already paid for at least one portion, we have extended the late application fee to June 1 (for additional legs only). If your total fees are paid by June 1, you don’t need to pay the late fee for any fairs that you decide to add.

We have some awesome regional representation to promote the CCUFairs this year! On my next update, I will send a list of your regional reps, so that if you have key contacts or ideas for their regions you can touch base with them.

Until next time, bundle up if you’re out east and turn on the air conditioner if you’re out west! And GO FLAMES GO (no matter where you are) ;o)

Blessings,

Dayna

3 Books and a Podcast Worth Your Investment

2007-04-17T12:55:00.000-06:00

Five Dysfunctions of a Team

What Got You Here Won't Get You There

The Now Habit (I haven't read this one... yet...) ;)

Manager-Tools Podcast

SuperSize Me!

2007-04-13T09:28:00.000-06:00

Adding Value... How are you "Super Sizing" your recruitment strategies? Are you giving compelling reasons for why influencers should allow you time (or more time) to promote your institution/programs to their students?

I was at Staples today and picked up a free magazine called "Canada's SOHO Business Magazine" Not only is it a great magazine, but I also found out about Staples free "how-to" seminars in partnership with BizLaunch.ca...

So use this idea to spin off some value added services to your prospective students and their influencers... but also check out some of these free seminars! Who wouldn't benefit from a little more advice on branding, hiring, how to get free publicity, etc?

I know what you're thinking... "my high school retreat weekend adds value to students and influencers!" And you're right. But think outside the box a bit more. Check out what Prairie is offering their influencers (heck, go right on ahead and register while you're at it!). Look at this event at Prov. Can you see some potential for connection to recruitment?

This may be as easy as having intentional recruitment involvement in events that are already happening (i.e. alumni events, grad dessert table, discounts on continuing ed courses for your "VIP influencers," sponsoring a youth ministry training event that is being hosted by another organization)... or it may require some creative work and/or proposals on your part.

I know you're out there, my google analytics tells me we average over 30 visits per week... any innovative ideas on "super sizing" your recruitment/enrolment efforts?

Chicken Poop for the Soul

2007-04-12T08:40:00.000-06:00

CBC interviews the editor and publisher of Winnipeg based Christian magazine Geez...

Self description from their home page: "Geez Magazine has set up camp in the outback of the spiritual commons. A bustling spot for the over-churched, out-churched, un-churched and maybe even the un-churchable. For wannabe contemplatives, front-line world-changers and restless cranks."

Looks irreverently fun... does anybody already subscribe? Maybe I can get them to throw in some copies for this year's rep "SWAG BAGS" on the fairs!

YC Hotel

2007-04-11T08:16:00.000-06:00

If you're still looking for a hotel for YC in Edmonton, the Crowne Plaza Chateau Lacombe is a decent hotel and has some good rates; you don't even need to be in the YC 'block'... Especially if you have an "entertainment book card," I just got a double for $90 (any girls out there want to share?).

It's less than 10 mins from YC.

I think last year at that time, we were watching the Oilers in the playoffs... can't say we'll be doing the same this year! But keep your ear to the ground for a brunch or post-concert get-together. Wow, YC is going to be my last event (sigh!)...

Hope to see you there!

Dayna

Spring 2007 Articles

2007-04-09T21:12:00.000-06:00

Click for Options 2007 articles on Christian Higher Education:

Of special interest: CHEC Chair, Justin Cooper, shares some information about future plans.

Join the Team...

2007-03-28T09:51:00.000-06:00

Looking for a new adventure in Christian Higher Education?

The Enrolment/Marketing Facilitation Team (EMFT) is hiring a new Program Coordinator: ¾ time (hours worked per week varies seasonally) for a 1 year maternity leave contract (my current position).

The main duties are to execute the administrative work associated with the EMFT, including the promotion and execution of the Christian College and University Fairs and other duties as outlined in this document. Application deadline: May 10, 2007. Please send cover letter and resume to nstemmler[at]checanada.ca. Electronic applications only.

Also available: the Regional PR Representative application (original email with further details was sent March 10), application deadline: April 13.

Don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions; inquiries and applications on all positions will remain confidential within the EMFT and limited to contact with references provided by applicants.

Blessings!
Dayna

Five ways to measure R.O.I.

2007-03-28T08:58:00.000-06:00

How do you track whether what you're doing in your recruitment strategy is really "worth it"? Here are 5 ways to measure your Return on Investment (R.O.I.)

Make sure you have a way of getting reports on click throughs with any web-ads that you use (email me for your ccufairs inquiry form request stats).
Ask your new students how they heard about you (all the ways they heard about you) as well as what the key decision factor was.
Keep statistics on inquiry cards for events over the course of a few years; analyze the results and factors that may have caused increase/decrease.
When calculating value/cost of events, be sure to factor in things like

What is/was the key demographic? Is the majority of the population within your target?
How many hours is the exhibit area open? Is there a fresh crowd every day, or registered attendees that stay the same the whole time (and for that matter, which of those scenarios works best for you?)
How much face-to-face time do you have? Is there an opportunity to present to key prospects or influencers?

Code your advertising with a special "coupon" or "call to action" that helps you to track how contacts heard about you (sometimes they don't remember). For example, in a newspaper ad: offer a free latte at your cafe, a free magazine subscription offer, or a free book of some sort that you can send them.

What's one way you measure your R.O.I.?

sale...

2007-03-24T11:11:00.000-06:00

I was in Staples yesterday and the rep that was helping me told me that they are being forced to clear out all of their "Staples brand" ink and laser cartridges because the manufacturers of the brand name printers won't agree to sell their units there if Staples competes with the supplies.

Anyway, the sales were pretty good; just an inside scoop, if you're interested in stocking up.

Dayna

Five Alive

2007-03-23T08:32:00.000-06:00

"Five Alive" lists... bite sized lists that you can create your own action items, ideas, plans or proposals out of:

A few easy Google Hacks (personally I love the autofill for forms online).
Current read and where to find it cheap (click image):
Quote of the day: "There are no traffic jams along the extra mile." -Roger Staubach
Resource: Why participate in the eastern fairs this year? : Thousands of easterners are still heading west for school and work. Why not your school? If "it's not in the budget" is your response... can you afford not to?
schoolfinder.com... have you seen your profile there? There's a searchable database of programs and everything, check it out.

MishMash...

2007-03-23T08:10:00.000-06:00

Do you use your personal luggage for your work travel? It's one thing for your clothing, but if your expensive luggage is filled with catalogues, getting trashed trip after trip when you're out recruiting, it may be a viable option to request a new budget line. There's some on sale at Canadian Tire right now; 3 piece set for $30 (click image):

Who's going to YC Alberta? What hotel are you staying at? I hope to have our print material with me to give those attending YC. We will likely have a get-together as well, maybe Sunday brunch? Stay tuned.

The King's University College is hiring a Financial Aid coordinator, if you're interested, contact Hilda for more information: hilda.buisman@kingsu.ca

Anyone looking for new displays this year? Let's see if we can coordinate some discounts if we all agree to use the same supplier. We have used Zibit in the past; I have heard that Displayco is good, but I was unable to negotiate a deal or sponsorship with them last year... This year I am using Studios Creative for the CCUFairs displays as part of their sponsorship last year, and I think they may do a group discount for a minimum order. Comment below or email me if you're interested and I will drum up some more details.

Don't forget about the looming deadline to apply to be a Regional PR Representative for this year's fairs (April 13). I anticipate it being a very strategic way to increase our attendance at the fairs this year. Email me for a job description/application.

Have a fabulous weekend, blog at ya later :)

Dayna

updates and upcoming...

2007-03-11T16:13:00.000-06:00

Updates:

Did you know...We're hiring!

officially: Regional PR Representatives for the CCUfairs
soon-to-be-officially: Maternity Leave position (job description available soon, please email me if you're interested... inquiries will remain confidential)
soon-to-be-officially: Fairs assistant/seminar presenter

Upcoming:

Did you know... We're ready to hit the road! Four reasons why your colleagues say you should be participating in (or expanding your participation in) the CCUFairs:

“The CCUFairs has been our highest event-based inquiry generation source for the past 4 years. We make it a top priority in our recruitment strategy budget.”
“Last year, 7% of our incoming class came directly out of CCUFairs recruitment.”
“The CCU Fairs gives us access to locations and students that we normally would struggle to develop. Being a part of the fairs brings us instant credibility in these new situations.”
“In just 2 years on the Ontario fairs, we have seen our number of confirmed students from Ontario triple. What a great return on our investment!”

Check your inbox or email me for more information on the 2007 CCUFairs :: ccufairs@checanada.ca

1000 visits...

2007-02-13T22:16:00.000-07:00

Congratulations,
"CHEC on this" blog...
on your 1000th visitor!

Helicoptor Idol...

2007-02-13T21:16:00.000-07:00

Did anybody see American Idol tonight? It's the second time I've ever watched... but now I want to buy this one, just because of the clear example of helicopter parenting... this girl auditions in LA, and decides to sing a song that her mom and aunt "pressured her" into singing. She doesn't make it through. The mom gets up on stage and explains to the judges that it's her fault, and wants them to give her daughter another chance. Simon loses it and freaks out...

What does "helicopter parenting" come down for us as recruiters? How do you find the balance between "beat 'em" and "join 'em"? How do your actions then filter down to the student life department (if you decide to "join 'em")... would resisting the helicopter parents be the encouragement that sends them elsewhere?

I'd love to hear your solutions, thoughts, and feelings on this issue. Let me know if you're interested in resources for further pro D on this topic (helicopter parenting people, not American Idol :) )...

Strategy...

2007-02-13T13:09:00.000-07:00

Does your recruitment strategy depend too heavily on prospects driving to your institution and begging for an application?

Enrolment Trends in Canada

2007-02-08T13:51:00.000-07:00

Check out this article on enrolment trends in Canadian elementary and secondary schools... for more specific stats, scroll down to the footnotes in the article for references cited from Stats Canada.

Violators Will Be Prosecuted...

2007-02-04T15:46:00.000-07:00

First impressions... how does your campus measure up?

One of my goals for this year is to connect with as many of our member institutions on their campus as possible. While I am not able to promote/recommend specific institutions or institution types, I still represent you as the program coordinator for the Enrolment Marketing Facilitation Team (EMFT) of Christian Higher Education Canada (CHEC).

Thank you to those of you who have already hosted me and toured me around your amazing facilities! I have seen Vanguard, Concordia, The Kings, Taylor, Columbia, Pacific Life, Summit Pacific, Heritage, Emmanuel, Tyndale, Redeemer, Providence... and was already quite familiar with Trinity Western, Christ for the Nations, Rocky Mountain, and Alliance/Nazarene. I look forward to being at Booth, Steinbach, and Canadian Mennonite University this coming week.

So, without naming any names... I did gather a few first impressions at some of the campuses I was on... especially when taking on the perspective of a prospective student/parent. Have you wandered around your campus lately, looking with "fresh eyes?" Maybe it's time for another walk-about... or bring a friend or relative along that is not familiar with your campus and ask for their feedback. Here are 5 things to watch for:

Tidiness: Do you have a student council member that is responsible for general clean up of the lounge areas? How are they kept accountable to the effectiveness of their job?
Signage: How difficult is it to get to the admissions/recruitment area? You may not be able to have your office moved to the front corner window office... but you should have effective directional signage.
Property maintenance and outer signage: Believe it or not, 3 campuses that I was on had some version of signage (as the FIRST thing you see) stating, "Private Property," "Private Parking, Violators will be towed," or "Violators will be Prosecuted"... that's not the grande welcome that you may be going for. Are there other ways you can enforce parking expectations? Offer parking passes? Email a printable visitors pass for those that have appointments? Have a custom chloroplast sign with a velcro attachable custom visitor name sign? Regarding property maintenance, a few of the sites I was at had beautifully sculptured gardens and landscapes upon entry... an amazing first impression! A few were PILED with snow, charged a substantial amount for parking, and/or had a dozen or more of the closest parking places reserved for staff and faculty (no visitor spots).
Umbrella/mittens: Okay, this is likely going above and beyond the call of duty... but if you have several buildings on your campus with no covered walks between them, consider having several small umbrellas available, or a large golf umbrella, for visitors that come unprepared for inclement weather. If the cold is more of an issue, how about "guest mittens?" If you have some spare change in the promo/give away budget, have them customized with your logo. Give them to the guest to keep. If you don't have spare change, you can literally do this for $1/umbrella and $1/pair of mittens from Dollarama... then reuse!
Lastly, what can you send your visitor home with? Find something you can spare to give them as a good gesture. This will vary drastically from budget to budget, but here are a few ideas:

essential: have an info package from your institution prepared for them, and at the end of their visit, have them complete some form of questionnaire for you regarding how they know about you, their impressions, their level of interest, etc.
low cost gift: cafe coupon, a city info magazine (free from your local tourism branch)
medium cost gift: branded mug, t-shirt, calendar
high cost gift (very strong prospect): branded merchandise/campus book store gift certificate, travel/accommodation reimbursement, local "tourist attraction" passes
follow up: Have some institutionally branded postcards ready to send them shortly after their visit. Hand-write a quick personal note thanking them for their visit, and be sure to include your contact information again. If you don't have the means to have branded postcards printed, pick up some cityscape postcards from your local dollar store (be sure to add your logo to your return address)

You may feel like you are helpless with a lack of resources for impressing your prospects, but all you really need is a little time and creativity to take every opportunity to make your guests' first impression a positive and lasting one.

Share your ideas with us! How you do make a great impression on your guests?

Do the Never

2007-01-16T16:07:00.000-07:00

contributor: Dayna Chu

"Do the Never" by Seth Godin

Here’s a neat way to invent a new Purple Cow.
Figure out what the always is. Then do something else...
Toothpaste always comes in a squeezable tube.
Business travelers always use a travel agent.
Politicians always have their staff screen their calls.
Figure out what the always is, then do exactly the opposite.
Do the never.

Seat Sale

2007-01-11T08:46:00.000-07:00

FYI,

WESTJET has a big seat sale on today...

NACCAP: Melanie Olfert to represent Canada Region

2007-01-06T14:25:00.000-07:00

"As we enter a new era of NACCAP leadership, we are thrilled to have the participation of so many willing to serve as a representative of our membership. You have chosen a fine group of Enrollment Management, Recruitment & Counseling professionals from across the US & Canada to serve you. The newly elected officers will be meeting with the current NACCAP Board of Directors at the end of January to talk about transition and priorities as we endeavor to meet the needs of all of our constituents. Thank you for the confidence you have placed in all of us through this important affirmation and election process..." (more: click here...)

Melanie's Bio

"Melanie graduated from Columbia Bible College with a diploma in Caregiving and Counselling in 1997, and then received her B.A. in Social Sciences from Providence College in 1999. She was involved in many of the music programs during her time at Columbia, and was also a Resident Assistant in the dorms. Since graduation, she has been a Crisis Counsellor, Music Teacher, and Admissions Counsellor. She is now the Director of Admissions at Columbia, and also works with new applicants and inquiries from outside of Canada."

Please join me in congratulating Melanie on her new position.

Merry Christmas...

2006-12-13T11:59:00.000-07:00

Contibutor: Dayna

Call me small town, but I don't think I've ever seen a real live true-blue science experiment with green gooey guck bubbling in a beaker, traveling through a tube to another ampule (the scientific word for the other bottle thingy...). Anyway, I got a fabulous tour from Mary N of The Kings University College campus on Monday, thanks Mary!

Thanks too to Tim B at Vanguard (wish I would have taken a picture of the 270* skyline view from that prayer room!), Karen Marshall from Concordia (after a busy morning with the counseller info brunch!) and Karen Manzer from Taylor.

I hope you all make it through exam week without catching any germs... I know the students' lack of proper sleeping and eating always makes for lower immunity around now... get out the antibacterial gel :) I hear Mary has a yummy concoction brewing at TKUC, maybe she'll share some...

Joy and I are doing some evaluation and planning over the next couple of days here at my office in Calgary, but I will be available if you'd like to contact me (email is the best way)... dchu@checanada.ca. If you have any additional thoughts or evaluation forms from the fairs, please email me or fax to 403-313-2488.

I will likely post a bit over the holidays, but just in case I don't, have a great Christmas!

Blessings,
Dayna

Code of Conduct?

2006-12-07T11:10:00.000-07:00

Contributor: Dayna Chu

Does your institution have a code of conduct that applies to your students regardless of whether they are on campus or off? Have you had any backlash (or shall I say, "feedback") on the code of conduct requirements?

A recent news headline caught my attention due to the application of a "code of conduct" expectation in public Universities...

"The dean of the University of Alberta’s School of Business says he will be investigating to see if any students who participated in rowdy drunken event at Chateau Lake Louise this weekend violated the school’s student code of conduct...

..."But I tell you, this is something I find appalling, and I will be talking to the students involved. I will continue to reinforce the point that when they are out there, they are our ambassadors and what they do reflects on us, and this reflects very badly on us -- whether it was a sanctioned event or not,” he said.
..."If he finds out any of the U of A business students who attended the event did anything to violated the school’s student code of conduct, they will face the consequences, Percy vowed. “As you can see, I am not happy.”

..."In future, I'm going to tell our students that this is not the sort of event we want them attending."
Dr. Vern Jones, the acting dean of the University of Calgary business school, said he will also look into what his students did at the weekend event. "We're very concerned about this.... It's something that reflects badly on the school and the university," he said.
"[But] we had no connection to it -- this was something that students did on their own."

University of Calgary officials moved quickly to condemn the behaviour.

"We're very upset," said Vern Jones, interim dean of the business school. "We certainly don't condone this kind of event. It reflects badly upon the university and the school."
RCMP estimate 230 students and alumni from U of C's Haskayne School of Business, UBC, University of Lethbridge, University of Alberta, University of Regina and the University of Northern British Columbia gathered for the event, which was not sanctioned by the institutions.
Event organizers in Calgary told the Herald it was a private function, paid for by students who attended.
"We were not there representing our school in any way, shape or form," said Kevin Collins, a 22-year-old business student from the U of C. "There was no team U of C. This was a private event, like a snowboard party."

So this makes me wonder if your institutions address this to any degree.

This situation provides you with an example to provide students and prospects of a "code of conduct" being a part of public institutions as well as private... though likely on a different scale of expectations!

Best Recruiters...

2006-12-01T17:33:00.000-07:00

Posted By: Dan Donkers (Summit Pacific)
Here's an unrelated question for my CHEC friends. The Christmas season is fast approaching, and many students will be returning to their homes, which these days are spread out all over the country. I've always believed (and been told many times) that students are our best recruitment tools. What are some ways/incentives to involve them in recruitment over the Christmas season?

Watch Your Language

2006-11-30T07:39:00.000-07:00

Some of the posts recently about marketing masks and customer service have gotten me thinking about our language we use as admissions/recruiting workers in Christian Higher Ed and what the connection might be between using proper terms for what we do and communicating what we do to those around us in our schools.

My guess is for most of us we don't have an issue in using sales-related terms as we understand that we are not sacrificing the personal touch or the relational element of what we do when we talk this way. We obviously don't talk to our students using this language but my question is how do we communicate this to others in our schools who may not have the understanding of the language we use? How do we let our non-admissions colleagues know that when we talk about prospects, customers, and marketing; these terms can actually increase our effectiveness by sharpening our focus as opposed to turning us into telemarketers?

For me I start with trying to be clear what I mean by defining my terms in my own mind so I can communicate them if asked.

Prospect - A student in grade 11 or 12 who is considering my school.

Sales Process - The process I follow from my first contact with a prospect right to the time where they tell me they're either not interested or they apply.

Closing - The process of working with a prospect to make a final decision on whether to apply and then working with them to get their application and confirmation finished.

Account Managing - For me this is the maintenance that takes place with a student between the time he/she has confirmed they're coming to the time they walk in the door in September. It's easy to loose a "sale" still during that period if you're not careful.

Low Probability/High Probability - These are terms I use in thinking about the potential of closing a prospect. It goes without saying that you want to spend the majority of your time trying to find and close the high probability sales.

For me it was helpful to take these terms from my experience in the business world and find definitions for what I'm now doing in Admissions. It helped me clarify and focus on my tasks at hand and gave me some effective language for communicating what I do to others in my school and elsewhere.

So what do you think? What language do you use when talking about the sales aspect of admissions? Share your thoughts and experiences with trying to communicate with your non-admissions colleagues.

The weekend visit - to be or not to be?

2006-11-28T14:38:00.000-07:00

The Christian College/University youth retreat weekend! It is both highly anticipated and sometimes dreaded by students and staff. For many schools this event has come to pass, and some schools are still hosting them. I would like to hear from you on whether this is or has been an effective recruitment model.

Our school let the "Encounter" youth retreat go about 3 years ago. It was seen by some as an old model of youth ministry, it was loosing money and youth pastors in the area were saying that they wanted to take their kids to retreats that were bigger and better. (There are a LOT of youth events in our area!)

It's been 3 years and we are still unsure of the effects on recruitment. Numbers have not been down, but there are still many kids that would have experienced our campus that would not have otherwise. Would they have come? We have received several comments from youth pastors from small churches over the years that wish we still had it, and one made a particular appeal to us last week to bring it back. Maybe remodel, adjust a few things -but give them a weekend gettaway instead of just a view day. This youth pastor insisted that many of his youth would have become students if they had come for a weekend.

To be or not to be - that is my question. Do we bring it back? We know that campus visits are very important to recruitment and enrolment, so we really want to bring it back in one form or another. Maybe create youth leadership summits or weekend urban plunges in place of the entertainment weekend? Do we focus on the campus visit or on the spiritual growth of youth? How involved do we expect our students to be?

What are your thoughts?

IS THE CUSTOMER (SERVICE) ALWAYS RIGHT?

2006-11-28T13:47:00.000-07:00

by: Chris Rutledge
Emmanuel Bible College

After reading Dayna’s post on the Marketing Mask (great blog if you haven’t read it make sure that you do) It really started me thinking about customer service and how we as Christian Institutions are doing with our own customer service. As I think back on the Ontario Tour there were many examples of good and bad customer service. The Four Points Sheridan in London had amazing customer service. They treated us to something that we had never had before nor were we expecting it. (I'll definetly stay there again) The Crowne Plaze in Ottawa (as Dayna mentioned) had terrible customer service (it would be nice to have rooms when you check into a hotel). The East Side Mario’s in Stouffville had TERRIBLE customer service (if you don’t believe me ask Joy, Dennis, Tim, or Wib, I don’t want to be picky but most Chicken Teterazzini dishes that I have had COMES WITH CHICKEN). Wib the amazing bus driver had Mad Customer Service Skills (that is a good thing in case you didn’t understand the “mad” part) He always went above and beyond what we expect of him.

But what does customer service mean to us as we look at out institutions. I always find myself trending in dangerous waters as I address our students as customers. First off let me explain my thinking I believe that since a student pays a fee and expects a service in return, this makes them a customer. (Check it out in the Big Webster’s Dictionary) I have been confronted on this ideology a few times and hear the same response over and over and over (and over) again. (The follow needs to be said in a whining type of voice to make it more effective) “Referring to the students as a customer, removes the personal relationship aspect of the institution, the students are not our customers they are our friends” Well it’s time to hear the radio in the morning, if this is how you treat your friends then please call me a customer!

Somewhere along the line we decided that it was OK to not give our students stellar service. We somehow feel that since the student is a Christian (you can not always assume this) that they will give us grace and understanding in return for our lack of service. Friends, this can not be, we must try harder to make our students feel valuable to us. We must stop thinking that the students are there for us, when if it wasn’t for the students we would be out supersizing a lot of meal deals (I am joking of course) The students are the most important aspect of any Christian institution, so we must start making them feel that way. We can not continue to give the students the bare minimum in service. People want to feel like they are important and that they have value.

I am currently publishing a customer service manual for our institution and hopefully will have it done by the new year. I will be posting different sections on this blog to get your feedback and hopefully start making you and your institution think about the service that you provide for your customers (I dare you to go around and use the word customer in front of other staff and faculty and get their reaction)

Here are some questions to get you started in your thinking. 1. Where does your institution lack when it comes to customer service? 2. Are you giving your students great service or only what it takes to get by? 3. What does you institution do well in regard to customer service? (Feel free to share some ideas and experiences on this blog)

Stay Tuned for the Following Blogs

Inexpensive Ways To Provide Amazing Customer Service

Outstanding Customer Service In One Minute

Top Five Customer Service Errors (and their solutions) in Christian Education

Pictures are Posted!

2006-11-27T13:26:00.000-07:00

You can find this photo and all of the rest of our fun photos from the Eastern fairs up on shutterfly.

You can view them at www.spareparts.shutterfly.com.

marketing masks...

2006-11-23T14:02:00.000-07:00

Is your product true to what you're promoting?

Many of you were with me for our stay at the Crowne Plaza in Ottawa for the end of the Ontario fairs. We got a really great rate, but I was disappointed with our stay for several reasons, most of which I won't go into here, but including not having our rooms ready when we arrived (after having called within the past 24 hours to confirm our already-contractually-stated arrival time), not having the internet included in the rate of some of the rooms as agreed, the front desk staff being extremely inefficient (not to mention all in blue jeans; even on a Friday this is way below my expectations of the Crowne Plaza), and... did anybody else have to practically stand on their toilet to get the bathroom door closed? While nicely furnished, this hotel had the smallest bathroom I have ever seen, and no additional outer sink/counter.

Okay, so maybe I'm getting to be a bit of a hotel snob... but there's a lot to be said for meeting expectations, especially if you're in the business of setting them. The Crowne Plaza calls themselves "The Place to Meet..." and yet two large meetings booked on the same weekend seemed to throw them all into chaos. They call themselves "the best that Ottawa has to offer," but I beg to differ (Westin here we come in 2007?!).

I was greeted with truffles and a hand signed welcome card (when, in fact, my room became available...)

"...Please do not hesitate to contact me..."

I felt like saying, "Well, if you would please not hesitate for over 15 minutes from answering the phone at the front desk, I would not hesitate to contact you..."

ANYWAY, enough ranting... my main point is this: Does your institution wear marketing masks? Do you overstate your alumni satisfaction levels, or pad your "employment rate" by not mentioning that grads may not be employed in their area of study? Do you have unrealistic depictions of your campus, residence, classrooms, or resource areas... on your display, online, in written descriptions, or otherwise?

What are some ways that you may be setting expectations too high; or worse yet, falsely? Is your "One-Year-Certificate" really that adventurous? Are your credits really that transferable? Is your discipleship program ultimately focused on discipleship?

Remember: your satisfied students are the best recruiters you will ever have for your institution. Think retention and be sure that all levels of marketing, recruitment, and alumni relations are on a realistic level of expectation management.

Dayna

the look you're looking for...

2006-11-22T12:25:00.000-07:00

Hate to say "I told you so..." well, okay, I don't hate it that much; the new Starbucks look supports my past prediction that the 'silhouette' look is the marketing look of the future... and now that makes it the marketing look of now... Think iPod, Coke BLAK, and... Starbucks.

Do you remember the Belfast Bible College display? Go for it... it's the look that will get the looks you're looking for at fairs, events, exhibitions, etc... disclaimer: you'll have to be ready to get a new one within a couple of years!

Dayna

Happy Birthday!

2006-11-22T09:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday

MARY & JULIE!When's your birthday? comment below...

Five Alive

2006-11-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

Do you ever come out of a tour or even a meeting thinking, "what did we accomplish there?" well, I am 15 minutes into my first day back from the Ontario fairs and already assessing that... I know we connected and networked and accomplished a LOT... so in case some of you are heading straight back onto the road again (bless your souls), or simply may forget some of what we did, I have a list of resources here for you that you can create your own action item list out of:

Pro D hand-outs: Resource List; enrolment process SOS
BLOGS (right nav bar)... click "comment" below and give us your blog address to have it posted on our list
Stats from each event (I will email you)
Please consider using our sponsor for your next order of promotional give-aways. Rob Penner of Talbot Marketing worked with his suppliers to provide us with the freebies that you received on the fairs (duffle bag, water bottle, portfolio, alarm clock, business card holder). I also purchased our lanyards and pens through him.
Past Posts: "Some Resources" ; "Tuition Increases and Google Alerts" ; "Sweet Freebies" ; Noel Levitz & Stamats ; and a Travel Tip.

There you have it... my first of what will become a spontaneous series of "Five Alive" lists... bite sized lists that you can create your own action items, ideas, plans or proposals out of.

2006-11-08T22:00:00.000-07:00

Ever tried to sift through the statcan website? It can get kind of crazy, and just when you think you found something good, you need to order it and/or pay... argh. Anyway, here's one place to start poking around if you are looking to do some population planning...

http://www.statcan.ca/Daily/English/060927/d060927a.htm

Also note; I have added a new blog to the list
http://stopfiverecords.blogspot.com (Dan Donkers; Summit Pacific)

See some of you in Ontario Friday (I leave tomorrow)...

Dayna

lou review

2006-11-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

There were many good things on the CCUfairs west, but this wins hands down in it's category:
Best Ladies' Bathroom
...The envelope please...
and the winner is:
Calgary: First Alliance Church!

[actual photo]

Question of the Day

2006-11-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, so for those of you that were on the western leg of the fairs, I know you're probably expecting some slightly random brainteaser that, while unusual and seemingly ridiculous, actually spurs on some great conversation and makes the day a whole lot more fun. I don't want to disappoint you, but this question is going to have a slightly different feel to it. Without any more preamble, here's my question:

As a admissions professional, our jobs require a large amount of commitment to both travel and office time. What things do you do to refresh yourself on the road? At home? How do you maintain relationships and community? What sort of things keep you alive personally so that you can be motivated professionally?

Can't wait to hear how you all weigh in on this one!

Astro-Dunn

2006-11-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

Hey Dunn, this one's for you... and any of you other crazies that have never heard of Astroboy (my pick as Dunn's cartoon character) click above to hear the theme song... click here to find out more about "the Aaamazing Aaastro-Boooyyyyy..."

Blog Links

2006-11-01T22:42:00.000-07:00

Quick tip for y'all... scroll down a bit and look right... there's a list of some recruiter's blogs (not neccessarily about recruitment... mostly not...). Comment here to have yours added to the list.

5 Ways to Boost January Enrolment

2006-11-01T08:47:00.000-07:00

Happy November! It's not hard to think of Christmas and the new year here in Calgary right now, with our blanket of snow and sub-zero temperatures... it got me thinking of enrolment trends for second semester...

Did you know that many prospective students -- even mature students, don't know that they can start classes in January? If your enrolment numbers are astoundingly high right now, you may not need to make a push for January enrolment... but if you could use a boost in enrolment, here are a few ideas:

Promotional campaign... a "bold sign" road side announcement proclaiming January enrolment options
Radio ad (see if you can get it sponsored by a local business)
Newspaper ad (especially effective for attracting mature students/community ed/continuing ed)
A special brochure or small poster for your display table focusing on January enrolment
Christmas "gift certificates", good for the cost of a class... promote these on your parent page and/or semester-end mailout. While you're at it, throw in a free gingerbread latte card for your campus cafe...

Most of all, don't forget that just when it feels like you're getting SICK of your brand, logo, promotional campaign... others are JUST beginning to recognize it. You are immersed in it, but many don't even know you exist, or have misconceptions about how and when you offer your services (even your own students!). Tell them how it's going to be done... tell them you're doing it, and then tell them how you did it... they'll get the picture AND pass it on.

Happy Birthday Clint!

2006-10-30T21:43:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY
CLINT!

You're definitely cool enough for the name "CLINT"! ;o)
Hope you have a great Birthday!

The votes are in...

2006-10-29T19:18:00.000-07:00

The votes are in... here's the picture for next year's CCUFairs promo:

More western fairs pictures here

Blogger Alerts...

2006-10-27T21:00:00.000-06:00

Has anyone set up Blogger Alerts? Funny enough, I set one up to find "CCUFairs" so that I can track advertising and articles etc... and it found one of Stacey's blog posts, as well as my previous blog post.

All that to say two things: 1) set up blogger alerts, they work! and 2) check out Stacey's blog... you'll find more fantastic pictures like this one (click to go to Stacey's blog):

Schoolfinder.com Profile

2006-10-27T16:56:00.000-06:00

Christian Higher Education Canada has a pretty sweet profile within schoolfinder.com. They are one of the sponsoring organizations of the CCUFairs, so we worked out a deal for the profile on their site (click logo above).

The institutions with the higher profiles were already paying members of schoolfinder.com
I am unsure how they qualified "UC" as a type, but I will look into it
These have been up since before western fairs started (sorry I didn't tell you sooner, one of those things that got lower priority with dealing with personal things over the last few weeks).

Especially check out the "program find" option... pretty cool.

What do you think? Any suggestions?

Thank you!

2006-10-26T13:32:00.000-06:00

Ahhh, I enjoyed a latte in my new mug, & listened to some new iTunes already... the chocolate didn't survive long enough to make it into the picture, yah, it's gone. Thanks so much for your generosity! You guys are the best.

For the record, the "Question of the Day" about the song of your life helped me pick out some new iTunes... Chris Tomlin, Amanda Falk, Third Day, John Mayer... and I was surprised that nobody named "on the road again" as their life song! Maybe in Ontario...

Anyway, thanks again, I am truly honoured.

Dayna

question of the day

2006-10-25T19:06:00.000-06:00

Stacey had everyone thinking, talking, and getting to know one another with "Question of the Day" while we were on the western leg of the fairs. One of the questions was, "If you were a cartoon character, what cartoon character would you be?" [note that this is not asking what your favourite cartoon character is, but who you would be]...

Patty was Dora the Explorer
Renee was SheRa... and I think a couple of others...
Starla was Smurfette
Dunn was AstroBoy (although not everyone knows who that is...)----->

But Ruth Scott wins... as... HERSELF! (click pic for virtual tour of ebc!)

On that note... what was the highlight of the CCUFairs for you? What would you never change about the CCUfairs?

pay it forward...

2006-10-18T22:38:00.000-06:00

Okay all you who attended the ProD... or even just went on the western fairs... what's your number one new "action item"? What will you now do differently as a result of your training and/or experience?

I know you're out there...

2006-10-18T22:36:00.000-06:00

Quality vs Quantity...

2006-09-24T19:16:00.000-06:00

Dan Donkers ladies and gentlemen, Recruiter for Summit Pacific (Abbotsford) at Kelowna's Great White North Supertour concert among a few of the several hundred attendees.

This event, and events like YC (by the way YC07 dates are May 25-27), maybe even Missionsfest; Out in Ontario and east I imagine it is things like Kingdom Bound or events at Canada's Wonderland... raises the question... should you put your eggs in the quality basket, or the quantity basket? The illustration lending itself quite nicely to my answer... don't put all your eggs in one basket!

Sometimes students don't know that they want more information from you yet until they come across you at events that are not intentionally "higher education" focused.

Thoughts?

Friday's Cry-->

^ Melanie, Tim & Andrea prepare for the rush...

3 Secrets of a Secret Shopper

2006-09-24T14:10:00.000-06:00

Yes, I confess... I am a mystery shopper in my other life. I LOVE the process of evaluation. Sometimes it feels like a "curse" because I just can't turn it off. Rather than think of myself as being critical, I prefer to think of myself as a problem solver... it's a fine line sometimes, and as my twin sister quoted on her blog recently, "Attitudes are contagious, do you want people to catch yours?"

Anyway, here are some thoughts that I have transfered to the recruitment world from my experiences as a secret shopper:

Be the Client :: the most important aspect of being a secret shopper is to put yourself in the shoes of an actual customer of the actual product or service. How often do you put yourself in the shoes of your prospective students? How often do you see what they see, hear what they hear, live what they live? Do you know what their experiences are like when they participate in a campus tour, an overnight res visit, a class preview?
Be Observant :: in mystery shopping, the evaluation of the environment is as important as the evaluation of the personelle. You may be the best recruiter, and have the best staff, and the best profs... but how's the student lounge looking these days? What's the carpet in the elevator like? How are the washrooms doing? Improvement in these areas can affect prospective students' decisions to attend your institution, and existing students' decisions to stay.
Report on it :: the best part of mystery shopping is the shopping... but you don't get paid until you report on it. Lack of written evaluation is the number one weakness that I see in recruitment departments nation wide. Start now to effectively evaluate each recruitment endeavour you do, and you (or your future replacement) will be thankful next year at this time... how much material did you go through? Was it worth the time? effort? cost? Did you get an evaluation from the host (if appropriate, ie a ministry team recruitment event)?

Feeling "critical" lately? Try to think of yourself as a problem solver... you may find yourself wanting others to catch your contagious attitude...

Why This Blog is a Good Thing

2006-09-22T19:26:00.000-06:00

I've noticed this blog has been pretty silent the last few weeks. I wanted to tell you why I blog here in hopes that it will encourage you my fellow recruiters to post some comments here and maybe even join the humble writing team and share your thoughts and experiences.

1. We can learn from each other - Many of us have been around the Christian Higher Ed industry for quite some time. Each one of us have had individual success' and failures as we've traveled and shared the stories of our schools. If we begin to come together and post what we've learned works and what doesn't I truly believe we can become more effective in what we do.

2. We can share resources - There are resources out there that can make our lives easier. Has anyone tried Hotwire yet? I never knew it existed before someone put me on to it. I've learned several very handy marketing techniques from some of Dayna's posts. There are always articles and things we find in our travels that would be great to post and share. Again all this is done so that we can be more effective in what we do.

3. It's a great place to talk and let off steam - Some of you out there may work with a team. Some of you especially in smaller schools may not. There were many years that I was the only one out there for my school. I think I really would have loved an on-line community with the potential that this has. Especially I would have loved a place to share road stories and let off some steam once in a while. How many of you even if you work on a team are in a similar place?

So there's a few thoughts on a Friday night. I really hope this thing grows into the potential that I see it can reach. Tell me what you think of what I wrote here. Share your stories, your concerns. I know you're out there...

Ask and You Shall Find

2006-09-14T15:42:00.000-06:00

I was thinking today about how often the recruiting job is like detective work. I find this applies especially to any dealings we have with prospective students these days. How many conversations have we had with students where we've had to ask the right questions to draw out a response and get them to think seriously whether they are interested in our schools.

There's a ton of reasons for this I know but I find a lot of students are reluctant to commit until the last possible moment these days. How many applications do we all see come in June, July and even August? Students have been fed so much information from their guidance counselors and their peers in their grade 12 year that it almost seems like some freeze up when they are asked to make a decision as to where they want to continue their education.

We need to realize that when we don't get a clear commitment from prospective students we sometimes need to put on our detective hat and start asking them questions to steer them in the right direction and get them to come to a decision. Here's a few ideas that I throw out to students who are caught in the decision loop.

1. What are they good at? What classes did they enjoy in high school?

2. What are they passionate about? This especially applies for students who are interested in studying something outside of normal academics they'd cover in High School.

3. What are their goals? Where would they like to see themselves in 5 years? 10 years?

4. Set a date to make a decision. Get the student to set a date where they have to make a decision. Sometimes committing to that can make the difference.

5. Get them to write things down. Sometimes when they are on paper they can become real.

6. Make sure they're talking. If they haven't talked about things enough with their parents, pastor, teacher, etc. Make sure they do. Getting the opinions of trusted ones can be encouraging and helps a student realize they're not alone.

New Template Coming Soon

2006-09-12T21:09:00.000-06:00

So, I just started using Firefox as a browser, and realized that my template does not have cross-browser compatibility. For those of you currently using Firefox... check it out in IE for a look at all the coolness before the airplanes disappear before your very eyes. Does anybody out there know of a good, free, cross compatible blog template site?

New University in BC?

2006-09-12T20:46:00.000-06:00

Anyone heard of the World Trade University? Apparently they're raising quite a stir due to the fact that they are calling themselves a University...

"B.C’s reputation for high-quality post-secondary education is at stake if the WTU is allowed to call itself a university without going through an approval process and meeting minimum standards required of all other private institutions, says Robert Clift, executive director of the Confederation of University Faculty Associations of B.C."

This raises some of the conversations that we have had as private institutions in different provinces, with different factors contributing to the reasons we are (or are not) called University, University College, College, etc.

Do you think it puts the reputation of a high quality education at stake? Do you think that being prevented from having "University" in your name limits the opportunity to get a good reputation?

2006-09-10T19:01:00.000-06:00

70: number of visits to this blog since it started a week ago
33: days until we start Western Fairs
28: number of institutions on all Western and Ontario Fairs
26: number of institutions on Ontario Fairs
24 : number of events on this year's CCUFairs
1: number of non-North American institutions represented on this year's fairs (Belfast Bible College)

Travel Tip

2006-09-06T18:34:00.000-06:00

This is something I discovered a while back. It could be really helpful for any of you who have to book your own hotels. Are you tired of overpaying for semi-decent places to land at night. I was! I paid $108 for a Comfort Inn in Barrie once!

Check out Hotwire. This is an American site that I've had a lot of luck with for booking great rooms at great prices. Here's a few things you need to know if you try it.

- They charge in American $$. Our dollar is close enough though these days that the deals are still great.

- You don't know the actual hotel until you've paid for it. You choose based on a rating system and a general geographic area.

- You can't specify the type of room...ie: non-smoking, king bed. I've had about 98% great rooms nonetheless. The couple of times I did get bad rooms, I was able to switch once and lived with the other because I was just staying one night there.

I use it now for almost all my major centre bookings. I've stayed in Sheratons for $75/night, Hilton Garden Inns for less than $70, and Comfort Inn and Suites for less than $60 to name a few stops. If you're willing to risk a little this can be a great tool to a comfortable stay.

Noel Levitz & Stamats

2006-09-05T16:14:00.000-06:00

If you're not already receiving these free e-newsletters, sign up! Have them filter into an inbox subfolder, and read them when you need a recharge...

Noel Levitz: Strategies and Strategy Watch" Noel-Levitz periodically sends out reports, newsletters, white papers, and other information to keep campus professionals informed of current trends and best practices. "

Stamats: Quick Takes and Applications" Insights into integrated marketing, communication, and research for colleges and universities by Dr. Robert A. Sevier and other Stamats marketing professionals.

Some white papers:

Making Sense of the Retention Puzzle (pdf)
10 Ways to Revitalize Your Recruitment Communications (pdf)
Stamats White Papers (registration required)

sweet freebies

2006-09-04T21:47:00.000-06:00

Seth Godin is one of my favourite authors on marketing, change, and entrepeneurship. Click on the titles and book images below to download them (legally!) for free (a couple are links to sites that give more info and download links).

Knock Knock (on websites that work)
Who's There (on blogs that work)
Everyone's an expert (on 'lenses')
Unleashing the Idea Virus (on how ideas spread)

A Quick Introduction

2006-09-04T12:55:00.000-06:00

Hello Friends,

To start my contribution I thought I should offer a quick word of introduction to all my fellow recruiters. My name is Tim Kantel and I'm the Ontario Rep for St. Stephen's University (my fancy title is Marketing and Recruiting Officer). I'm based out of my home which is in Carleton Place, Ontario which is just outside of Ottawa and travel throughout mostly Ontario and Quebec raising students and awareness of SSU. I'm married to Sarah and have a 2 1/2 year old son Evan and another on the way at the end of this month.

My connection to Christian Higher Ed comes naturally as my Father is actually the founder of St. Stephen's University. I've been in and around SSU for most of my life except for about the 7 years before I came back on staff last September. I hold the claim to fame of being the first Recruiter that SSU ever hired back in the middle 90's and as I think about that time, this is one reason I'm really excited about this blog. Back in those days I wish I had the chance to be as connected to a community of colleagues like this. I would have loved to known the secrets and tricks of the trade that I had to figure out on my own. As we post and talk amongst ourselves here, I hope that we can all pick up information and suggestions that will make our lives easier and let us be more effective in what we do. As well it will be great to make new relationships and share road stories with people who understand!

So aside from Recruiting, I've done a lot of sales work in my short career selling everything from websites to Fair Trade coffee so I'm looking forward to sharing some of the things I've learned from that side of my life as well.

Anyway, enough about me....

Tuition Increases and Google Alerts

2006-09-03T17:28:00.000-06:00

Here are two articles that may interest you: the higher cost of higher education and tuition statistics in Canada.

And a tip: Does anyone out there use "Google Alerts"? It's a pretty cool way to filter the vast amounts of information available online... They are self-defined as: "... emails automatically sent to you when there are new Google results for your search terms. We currently offer four types of alerts: 'News,' 'Web,' 'News & Web,' and 'Groups.' "

For example, I have a couple of alerts set up under "news"... one for "Christian Higher Education" and one for, "Helicopter Parents." So anytime there is a new article in the top ten Google News stories or new website in the top twenty, I get an email with a link to it. I got notified about Trinity Western's new president and Tyndale's new property on the minute the story broke. Sweet.

DC

some resources...

2006-09-03T14:36:00.000-06:00

Since we're promising "Tips, Tools, and Trivia" in the tagline, here are a few things to kick us off...

Basic Evaluation Form ... effective evaluation can create efficiency and more effectiveness for next time.
Assistant Enrolment Advisor Job Description... you know you need help, but do you know what you would do with 5 or 10 extra hours a week if it were offered to you? Do you have an articulated job description yourself? How are you measuring your own success/effectiveness? Here's somewhere to start.
Ten Trailblazers for the Recruitment Road: basics for the battle; Take a look.

Welcome!

2006-09-01T12:02:00.000-06:00

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