How to improve communication with candidates for an Executive Education program?

Communication with applicants is a crucial aspect of the admissions process for an Executive Education program. An effective approach can significantly influence the quality of applications received and the conversion rate. This article explores various strategies for optimizing this vital communication.

Summary :

1. Diversify communication channels

2. Create explanatory content

3. Offering personalized support

1- Diversify communication channels

Intelligent chatbot

Integrating an intelligent chatbot into your application platform represents a significant step forward in improving communication with candidates. This automated system offers 24/7 availability, allowing you to instantly answer applicants' frequently asked questions, regardless of the time or day.

As an admissions manager, you'll quickly see the benefits of such a tool. Not only does it lighten your team's workload by handling simple inquiries, but it also provides applicants with a seamless and responsive experience. The chatbot can provide information on programs, deadlines, and prerequisites, guiding applicants through the application process efficiently and in a personalized way. This system answers common questions about eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and required documents. Admissions managers have seen a 30% reduction in emails requesting basic information, allowing them to focus on higher-value tasks.

Information webinars

Regularly organizing informational webinars is an effective strategy for communicating more personally with potential candidates. These online sessions allow you to present your programs, admission criteria, and associated career prospects in detail.

These webinars offer candidates the opportunity to interact directly with program managers and ask questions in real time. It's a way to build a stronger connection with your audience and demonstrate the added value of your training programs. Furthermore, by recording these sessions, you can make them available on your website, providing a valuable resource for candidates who were unable to attend live.

2- Create explanatory content

Tutorial videos

Creating short, impactful tutorial videos is a way to simplify the application process for your applicants. These videos can guide candidates through each step of the process, from account creation to final application submission.

As an admissions manager, you can use these videos to clarify often misunderstood points and thus reduce the number of repetitive questions. Make sure these tutorials are easily accessible on your application platform and that they cover aspects such as writing a personal statement, preparing required documents, and your institution's specific expectations.

For example, you could create a series of tutorial videos titled "Your Application Step by Step." Each video, lasting 2 to 3 minutes, focuses on a specific step in the admissions process, such as "How to Complete the Online Form" or "Preparing for Your Admissions Interview." These videos have helped reduce the average time applicants spend on the application process by 25%.

Interactive FAQ

A well-designed interactive FAQ can improve the candidate experience by allowing them to quickly find answers to their questions. Unlike a static FAQ, an interactive version can adapt to the specific needs of each user.

You can organize this FAQ by topic (admissions, programs, funding, etc.) and include a search engine for easier navigation. Feel free to regularly update this resource based on new questions that arise. A well-structured FAQ not only informs applicants but also reduces your team's workload by minimizing repetitive queries.

To create an effective FAQ:

1. Identify the most frequently asked questions

2. Organize the questions by category (e.g., Admission, Funding, Student Life)

3. Write clear and concise answers

4. Integrate a search engine

5. Update the content regularly

3- Offer personalized support

Mentoring by alumni

Implementing a mentoring program with alumni adds value to your admissions process. These mentors can share their personal experiences, offer valuable advice on application preparation, and provide a realistic glimpse into student life at your institution.

As an admissions manager, you can create a database of former volunteers, ensuring they receive training to fully understand their role and the limitations of their involvement. This mentoring system can not only reassure applicants but also strengthen their commitment to your institution, thus increasing the likelihood of converting accepted participants into registered volunteers.

Take the example of HEC Paris, which implemented a mentoring program called " HEC Ambassadors ." Each admitted candidate is paired with an alumnus from the same field or geographic area. This program increased the conversion rate of admitted students to enrolled students by 15% in just one year.

Tips for cover letters

Offering a guidance service for writing cover letters can improve the quality of applications received. This service can take various forms, ranging from detailed guides and online workshops to individual review and feedback sessions.

By providing clear guidance on your institution's expectations, you help applicants highlight their experiences and motivations in a relevant way. This not only facilitates the evaluation process for your admissions committee but also allows applicants to reflect deeply on their career goals and how well they align with your program. Remember to emphasize the importance of authenticity in these letters to gain a genuine insight into each applicant.

In conclusion, improving communication with applicants to an Executive Education program relies on a diverse and personalized approach. By implementing these strategies, admissions managers can optimize the application process, reduce administrative workload, and increase the quality of applications received.