Managing Overseas Agents? Be 100% UKVI-Ready with This Solution

How Agent Platform Helps Institutions Prepare for a UKVI Inspection

For any institution sponsoring international students, UKVI compliance is a top priority. Inspections can occur at any time, and institutions must be able to demonstrate robust procedures for student recruitment, visa compliance, and agent oversight.

This is where Agent Platform comes in. Designed specifically for institutions managing education agents and international student recruitment, our platform ensures compliance, streamlines reporting, and enables institutions to respond efficiently to UKVI audits.

IMAGE: Agent Platform runs on your agents’ smartphones behind a secure login (also on tablets and laptops of course).

It simplifies and enhances every stage of the agent lifecycle - Initial Approach, Pre-appointment, Contracting, Training, Planning, Supporting, Review, Paying and Contract Renewal.

With built-in best practices and strong governance, the Agent Platform ensures that your agents provide a high-quality service to students.

The platform automatically builds an evidence log to support UKVI compliance, giving you confidence in your agent relationships.

Designed for institutions partnering with multiple overseas agents, the Agent Platform helps universities stay organised, maintain compliance, and optimise recruitment performance - all in one intuitive portal for agents.

What Happens During a UKVI Inspection?

UKVI inspections assess whether institutions are meeting their sponsor licence obligations. Key areas of focus include:

• Recruitment & CAS Issuance – Are institutions issuing CAS responsibly and maintaining accurate records?

• Student Records & Right-to-Study Checks – Are visa documents correctly stored and verified?

• Student Attendance & Engagement Tracking – Is there documented evidence that students are engaging with their studies?

• Agent Oversight & Ethical Practices – Are institutions working only with ethical, well-trained agents?

• Reporting & Compliance Management – Are student status changes being reported to UKVI in a timely manner?

While some inspections are scheduled, others are unannounced, meaning institutions must always be prepared to provide evidence of compliance.

How Agent Platform Supports Institutions During a UKVI Inspection

Unlike generic CRM or admissions systems, Agent Platform is built with compliance at its core. It provides real-time data, structured reporting, and a full audit trail of agent and student interactions, making UKVI compliance simpler, faster, and more effective.

1. Instant Access to UKVI-Required Records

During an inspection, institutions must present a range of documents, including:

✔ Student visa and passport details
✔ CAS issuance history and justifications
✔ Agent agreements and training records
✔ Attendance tracking logs
✔ Evidence of right-to-study checks

With Agent Platform, all this information is centrally stored and instantly accessible. Institutions no longer need to scramble to gather paperwork at the last minute.

2. Full Audit Trail of Agent Activity

UKVI expects institutions to actively manage their agents and ensure ethical recruitment practices. Agent Platform provides:

✔ A detailed record of each agent’s interactions with students.
✔ Logs of every CAS issued via an agent, including justifications.
✔ Proof that agents have completed training on compliance and ethics.

This documentation ensures institutions can prove their agents are well-regulated and their recruitment processes are transparent and accountable.

3. Ensuring CAS Issuance Compliance

CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) issuance is a critical focus in any UKVI audit. Agent Platform helps institutions:

✔ Verify that all academic and English language requirements are met before a CAS is issued.
✔ Track agent-submitted applications, flagging any issues before CAS allocation.
✔ Provide a full history of each CAS issuance, ensuring UKVI compliance.

By automating CAS oversight, institutions can ensure they only sponsor genuine students and justify every CAS decision.

4. Automated Student Monitoring & Reporting

UKVI requires institutions to monitor student attendance, engagement, and visa compliance. Agent Platform integrates with student records to:

✔ Track non-enrolment, withdrawals, or deferrals, ensuring timely reporting to UKVI.
✔ Provide a full timeline of student activity, giving complete visibility for compliance audits.
✔ Identify high-risk agents, flagging those associated with higher visa refusals or compliance issues.

By automating these processes, institutions can prevent costly compliance failures and maintain a strong UKVI track record.

5. Strengthening Internal Compliance Procedures

UKVI expects institutions to maintain robust internal governance to manage visa compliance. Agent Platform supports this by:

✔ Tracking staff training on UKVI regulations and sponsor licence duties.
✔ Storing compliance policies and procedures for visa management, agent oversight, and student engagement.
✔ Providing real-time dashboards and reports, helping institutions stay ahead of compliance risks.

With all compliance data in one place, institutions can confidently demonstrate adherence to UKVI’s strict standards.

Final Thoughts: Be Ready for UKVI at Any Time

UKVI inspections can be stressful, but with Agent Platform, institutions can:

✅ Retrieve all student and agent records instantly.
✅ Show a clear audit trail of agent activity and CAS decisions.
✅ Monitor student engagement and visa compliance in real time.
✅ Demonstrate robust internal processes that align with UKVI regulations.

With compliance built into the core of Agent Platform, institutions can eliminate manual processes, reduce risk, and be fully prepared for UKVI inspections—whenever they happen.

Want to Strengthen Your Institution’s UKVI Compliance?

Discover how Agent Platform can transform your institution’s compliance strategy. Get in touch today!

Student CRM Exhibits at HELOA 2025 National Conference

Image courtesy of HELOA 2025

Student CRM is thrilled to announce that we are proud sponsors of the HELOA 2025 National Conference, taking place from Wednesday 15 January to Friday 17 January 2025 at the Crowne Plaza in Stratford-upon-Avon. As the leading CRM provider for student recruitment, we are excited to connect with delegates and showcase our innovative solutions on Thursday 16 January 2025 – the dedicated exhibition day.

At Student CRM, we share HELOA’s commitment to delivering high-quality information, advice, and guidance to prospective students, their families, and advisers. By aligning with HELOA’s values and strategic objectives, we aim to enhance the student recruitment process, promote best practices, and foster a supportive environment for students making critical decisions about their futures.

Why Visit Us?

• Discover Solutions: Learn how our platform can help streamline your recruitment processes, improve engagement, and achieve outstanding results.

• Meet the Experts: Chat with our friendly team and gain insights into how we’ve helped institutions like yours drive success.

• See What’s New: Get a first look at our latest features and enhancements, tailored to meet the needs of today’s student recruiters.

Whether you’re an existing client or exploring CRM options for the first time, we can’t wait to meet you and discuss how Student CRM can help you achieve your goals.

Event Details:

• Dates: 15-17 January 2025

• Exhibition Day: Thursday 16 January 2025

• Location: Crowne Plaza, Stratford-upon-Avon

Don’t miss this opportunity to see what makes Student CRM the trusted partner for higher education institutions across the UK.

We’ll see you there!

About Student CRM
Student CRM is a leading SaaS provider delivering comprehensive CRM solutions to further and higher education institutions. With a commitment to innovation, user satisfaction, and driving results, we empower universities and colleges to attract, engage, and enrol students more effectively.

Free Territories & Countries CSV download for International Student Recruitment

How do you decide which countries go into which territories?

When dividing the world into territories for international recruitment by UK universities, it's important to consider regions that reflect both geographical proximity and cultural or linguistic similarities.

This structure allows UK universities to manage international recruitment in an organised way, ensuring agents can focus on areas where they have expertise and networks. 

Adjustments can be made depending on specific institutional needs or market dynamics.

Start with these 11 territories: Europe, Turkey and the Balkans, Russia and Former Soviet States. Middle East and North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, North America and Canada, Central, America and Caribbean, South America, Asia, Central Asia and Caucasus, Australasia and Oceania, and Rest of the World.

If international student recruitment is high on your agenda, see if we can help with our Student CRM platform.

To process applications via your international agents in Student CRM:

• You manage agents in Contact Manager for Agents (CTM).

• You manage applications in Applications Passive (APV) or Applications Active (APS).

🚀 Happy recruiting!
Dom Yeadon

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Subscribe to my Student CRM Newsletter

Why Dom Yeadon's expertise matters

EXTENSIVE MARKETING EXPERIENCE

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENT RECRUITMENT

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

HIGHER EDUCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICES

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A PASSION FOR HELPING UNIVERSITIES SUCCEED

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

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tl;dr version of Bridget Phillipson's Speech (256 words vs 1,329 words)

(Her original 1,329 words here if you have time.)

tl;dr of Bridget Phillipson's Speech at the Embassy Education Conference

Date: 23 July 2024
Speaker: Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education

Key Points:

1. Introduction:

   • Expressed delight in attending and emphasised her role in reshaping educational relationships.

2. International Students:

   • Addressed mixed messages from past governments.

   • Asserted that international students are valued and welcome in the UK.

   • Highlighted the significant contributions of international students to UK communities and economy.

   • Reiterated the support for international students with post-study work visas.

3. Government's New Approach:

   • Education as a central focus.

   • Universities seen as public goods, not political battlegrounds.

   • Commitment to broadening opportunities for everyone.

   • Importance of international partnerships to foster creativity and innovation.

4. Cultural and Economic Contributions:

   • International students enrich UK culture and contribute substantially to the economy.

   • Personal anecdotes on the positive impact of international students in Sunderland.

   • Highlighted the global reputation of UK education.

5. Education as a Global Force:

   • Promoted the benefits of studying in the UK.

   • Emphasised the reciprocal benefits for both students and the UK.

   • Rejected the notion of a transactional relationship; focused on mutual growth and global friendship.

6. Global Partnerships:

   • Advocated for strong educational partnerships worldwide.

   • Mentioned specific countries for potential collaboration.

   • Stressed the role of education in addressing global challenges like AI, climate change, and misinformation.

7. Future Initiatives:

   • Announced the Education World Forum in London in May 2025.

   • Invited international education ministers to participate.

8. Conclusion:

   • Expressed optimism for a new era in UK education.

   • Called for collective efforts to enhance global educational opportunities and build a better society.

Phillipson's speech highlighted a commitment to making the UK a welcoming and innovative hub for international education, fostering global partnerships, and leveraging education to tackle major global issues.

Who is Bridget Phillipson?

Bridget Phillipson is a British politician serving as the Secretary of State for Education. She is a member of the Labour Party and represents the constituency of Houghton and Sunderland South as a Member of Parliament (MP). Phillipson has been involved in politics for several years, having been elected to Parliament in 2010.

In her role as Secretary of State for Education, Phillipson is responsible for overseeing the education system in England, including primary, secondary, and higher education. Her duties involve setting educational policies, managing funding for schools and universities, and ensuring that educational standards are met.

Phillipson has a background in political activism and has been known for her work on issues related to social justice, equality, and educational reform. Her recent speeches and initiatives indicate a strong focus on international collaboration in education, improving opportunities for students, and valuing the contributions of international students to the UK's educational landscape and broader society.

Given the financial difficulties currently faced by UK universities, the higher education (HE) sector has several key expectations from the Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson:

1. Increased Funding and Financial Support:

   • Stabilising University Finances: Universities seek immediate and long-term financial support to stabilize their operations. This could include increased funding for teaching, research, and infrastructure.

   • Mitigating Impact of Brexit: Assistance in overcoming financial challenges posed by Brexit, including potential shortfalls in research funding previously provided by the European Union.

2. Support for International Students:

   • Clear Policies and Visas: A clear and welcoming stance on international students, with streamlined visa processes and post-study work opportunities, as highlighted in Phillipson’s recent speech.

   • Marketing and Recruitment: Government-backed initiatives to promote UK universities globally to attract international students.

3. Sustainable Funding Models:

   • Review of Tuition Fees: A thorough review of the current tuition fee system and potential adjustments to ensure sustainability for universities while keeping education accessible to students.

   • Diverse Income Streams: Encouraging universities to develop diverse income streams, including public-private partnerships, industry collaborations, and philanthropy.

4. Research and Innovation Support:

   • Increased Research Funding: Enhanced funding for research, ensuring the UK remains a global leader in innovation and scientific discovery.

   • Collaboration Opportunities: Promoting and facilitating international research collaborations and partnerships.

5. Addressing Staff and Student Well-being:

   • Mental Health Support: Increased resources for mental health and well-being support for both students and staff.

   • Fair Employment Practices: Ensuring fair working conditions and pay for university staff, addressing concerns over job security, workload, and casualisation.

6. Regulatory and Bureaucratic Relief:

   • Reducing Red Tape: Simplifying regulatory requirements and reducing bureaucratic burdens to allow universities to focus more on teaching and research.

   • Autonomy and Flexibility: Preserving the autonomy of universities while providing the flexibility needed to innovate and adapt to changing circumstances.

7. Support for Digital Transformation:

   • Investment in Technology: Funding and support for the digital transformation of universities, enhancing online learning capabilities and integrating advanced technologies into education.

   • Infrastructure Upgrades: Ensuring universities have the necessary infrastructure to support modern educational practices.

8. Social Mobility and Inclusivity:

   • Widening Participation: Policies and funding aimed at widening participation and improving access to higher education for underrepresented and disadvantaged groups.

   • Equity in Education: Ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities for all students, regardless of background.

By addressing these key areas, Bridget Phillipson can help the UK higher education sector navigate its current financial difficulties and ensure its long-term sustainability and global competitiveness.

Here at Student CRM we want to help University CFOs

Replace your old CRM and halve your CRM budget overnight. If you are wondering whether your current CRM running costs: licenses, tech support, upgrades and support costs can be reduced, let us show you how. Student CRM - Fair pricing. Unlimited user licence. 5 star user reviews. Best ROI in the market. Built for HE.

It’s never been harder to make those hard decisions about running costs. We can help.

🚀 Happy recruiting!
Dom Yeadon

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Subscribe to my Student CRM Newsletter

Why Dom Yeadon's expertise matters

EXTENSIVE MARKETING EXPERIENCE

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENT RECRUITMENT

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

HIGHER EDUCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICES

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A PASSION FOR HELPING UNIVERSITIES SUCCEED

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

“Red Pill or Blue Pill?” asks Morpheus of UK universities

You know that the phrase "red pill, blue pill" originates from the 1999 science fiction film The Matrix. You watched it. We all did.

In the film, the protagonist, Neo, is given a choice by Morpheus between two pills: a red pill and a blue pill. Each pill represents a different path of understanding and reality:

Imagine UK universities as Neo, the protagonist from The Matrix, standing at a crossroads faced with a pivotal decision: to take the red pill or the blue pill. In this scenario, the blue pill represents clinging to their old, clunky, and costly legacy CRM systems, while the red pill symbolises the bold move to switch to the more cost-effective and highly featured Student CRM alternative.

The Blue Pill:

By choosing the blue pill, universities decide to stick with their legacy CRM systems. This means:

• Comfortable Ignorance: Continuing to use systems that are familiar but outdated and expensive.

• Status Quo: Maintaining a status quo that may hinder their efficiency and ability to provide top-tier service to students.

• Hidden Costs: Enduring hidden costs, from maintenance to inefficiencies, that drain valuable resources.

The Red Pill:

On the other hand, taking the red pill means embracing a new reality with the Student CRM alternative. This decision entails:

• Awakening: Recognising the need for change and stepping into the future with a more advanced, cost-effective solution.

• Enhanced Features: Gaining access to a suite of modern features designed to streamline operations, improve student engagement, and enhance overall efficiency.

• Cost Savings: Reducing expenditure on outdated systems and reallocating those funds towards more impactful initiatives, such as student support and academic programmes.

A Light-Hearted Reality Check

Picture this: a university admin team gathered around, debating their options.

One member, let's call him Dave, holds up the red pill and says, "Well, folks, we could keep wrestling with our ancient CRM every time we want to send a simple email, or we could take the plunge and join the 21st century. Fancy a leap into the future?"

Another, sceptical member, Jane, replies, "But what if the new system is just as bad?"

Dave grins, "Jane, if it's worse, I'll buy everyone fish and chips for a month. But if it's better, you owe me a pint every Friday for a year. Deal?"

The Professional Nudge

In all seriousness, universities need to confront the reality of their IT infrastructures. Legacy CRM systems are often a burden—costly, inefficient, and ill-suited to the dynamic needs of modern educational institutions. By opting for the red pill and transitioning to the Student CRM alternative, universities can not only save money but also vastly improve their administrative capabilities and student satisfaction.

So, dear universities, it’s time to wake up and smell the coffee. The red pill awaits, offering a more streamlined, efficient, and cost-effective future. Embrace the change, and you might just find that the grass (or should we say the campus?) is indeed greener on the other side.

Make the switch to Student CRM and see how effortless mastering your new CRM can be.

I recommend you see for yourself how easy Student CRM to use - just one look will prove it to you.

🚀 Happy recruiting!
Dom Yeadon

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Subscribe to my Student CRM Newsletter

Why Dom Yeadon's expertise matters

EXTENSIVE MARKETING EXPERIENCE

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENT RECRUITMENT

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

HIGHER EDUCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICES

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A PASSION FOR HELPING UNIVERSITIES SUCCEED

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

No experience required: why Student CRM is a breeze for university recruiters

Listen to my blog post: 'No experience required'

Student CRM's Founder Dom Yeadon

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When it comes to adopting new software, especially something as critical as a student recruitment CRM, many universities might worry about the onboarding process and whether their users will find it easy to use. The good news? Our recent survey proves that you have nothing to fear with Student CRM.

We asked university recruiters, "have you used a CRM before?" The results were fascinating, showing that most users were new to using a CRM, but that, thanks to our software’s user-friendly design, they started quickly and never looked back.

Here’s what we found:

User Experience Survey Results

Two-thirds of users had no previous CRM experience.

• 67% of users were complete newbies, with no prior experience using any CRM systems.

• 19% of users had some experience with other CRM software.

• 14% of users were highly experienced or "jedi" users.

Despite the fact that the majority of our users started with zero CRM experience, they didn’t need it. Our software is designed to be intuitive and straightforward. New users took to Student CRM like ducks to water, quickly becoming proficient.

This data should reassure any university considering Student CRM that even users who are completely new to CRM systems will not only be able to use the software but will become adept at it in no time.

Source: Student CRM user survey data, June 2024

““I had a fantastic experience with Student CRM ... As a CRM novice, I found their system easy to use and navigate and the team is always available to help with any queries. I highly recommend them for their user-friendly software and exceptional team….””

— a 5-star review

Why Choose Student CRM?

1. Intuitive Interface: Student CRM has been meticulously designed to ensure that every function is easily accessible and understandable, even for first-time users.

2. Minimal Training Required: Given the ease of use, training requirements are minimal, saving your institution time and resources.

3. Quick Onboarding: With such a high percentage of users becoming proficient quickly, the transition to Student CRM is smooth and seamless.

Real-World Impact

University recruiters using Student CRM have reported significant improvements in their recruitment processes. The ease of use translates into better efficiency, more effective communication with prospective students, and a more organised recruitment strategy.

In conclusion, if your university is looking for a reliable, user-friendly CRM that your team can master quickly, look no further than Student CRM. Our survey results are a testament to the software’s ability to cater to users at all levels of experience.

Make the switch to Student CRM and see how effortless mastering your new CRM can be

I recommend you see for yourself how easy Student CRM to use - just one look will prove it to you.

🚀 Happy recruiting!
Dom Yeadon

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Subscribe to my Student CRM Newsletter

Why Dom Yeadon's expertise matters

EXTENSIVE MARKETING EXPERIENCE

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENT RECRUITMENT

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

HIGHER EDUCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICES

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A PASSION FOR HELPING UNIVERSITIES SUCCEED

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

Join my HE movement away from the mundane

Listen to blog post: 'Join my HE movement'

Student CRM's Founder Dom Yeadon

Download

Transcend traditional limitations of giant CRMs to foster genuine applicant connections

Hello, creative minds and innovative thinkers!

If you're tired of the cookie-cutter approach to university recruitment and yearn for a system that celebrates individuality and creativity, you're in the right place. It’s time to break free from the constraints of giant, impersonal CRM systems and embrace a solution that's as vibrant and dynamic as the community you aim to cultivate.

Why Standard CRMs Just Don't Cut It

In the competitive realm of UK higher education, your institution's identity and the way you communicate are paramount. Giant CRMs—think Dynamics, Salesforce, and the like—are undoubtedly powerful, but they're also designed with a broad, commercial market in mind. This often leads to a 'one-size-fits-all' approach that doesn't fit the unique needs of creative and academic institutions.

These systems might be robust, but they lack the flexibility to truly capture the essence of what makes your university special. They impose a corporate tone, often drowning out your authentic voice with their standardised "voice of Microsoft/Salesforce." What's more, their complexity can hinder your ability to engage on a personal level. I know that the last thing you need is a CRM that stifles creativity and personalisation, essentials for fostering genuine connections with your prospective students.

Enter Student CRM: a breath of fresh air

Student CRM is different. Designed specifically with UK universities in mind, our platform supports bespoke communication strategies that reflect your unique brand and ethos. Whether you're nurturing artists, dancers, musicians, thinkers, or innovators, Student CRM adapts to your tone, style, and values, enabling:

• Tailored communication tools: Craft messages that speak directly to your audience, enhancing relevance and resonance.

• Features that foster relationships: Utilise advanced segmentation and personalised messaging to make every interaction count. Our automation tools keep the communication natural and continuous, without the robotic feel.

Success Stories: A People-First Approach

I have seen firsthand how institutions break away from the mundane. For instance, a north-west-based, very creative, arts institute revamped its recruitment strategy using our platform. They moved from generic email blasts to curated communication flows that sparked genuine conversations and boosted their applications, moving them well ahead of last year.

Time and time again, stories from our clients show the transformative impact of embracing a system built for creative communicators at its heart. We’re excited to introduce you to other creative institutions who can attest to why they give us 5-star reviews.

Why Choose Student CRM?

Choose a CRM that champions your creative spirit and puts relationships first. Student CRM is not just a tool; it's an extension of your institution’s commitment to personal touch and community:

• Support for creative expression: Our platform is a canvas for your communication team, allowing them to paint the picture of your academic community with authenticity and flair.

• Community and collaboration: Enhance teamwork and internal communication, making your recruitment efforts a collective triumph

• Five-star reviews: from user working at UK HE institutions just like yours, that chose us and never looked back.

Ready to redefine how your university communicates?

I recommend you say goodbye to the corporate echo and hello to a CRM that celebrates your unique voice. Book a demo today and see for yourself how Student CRM can transform your student recruitment strategy with the creativity you have always craved.

🚀 Happy recruiting!
Dom Yeadon

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Subscribe to my Student CRM Newsletter

Why Dom Yeadon's expertise matters

EXTENSIVE MARKETING EXPERIENCE

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENT RECRUITMENT

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

HIGHER EDUCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICES

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A PASSION FOR HELPING UNIVERSITIES SUCCEED

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

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“7 things I wish I had known before I bought our university CRM”

(says almost every university)

Listen to my blog post: '7 things I wish I had known before'

Student CRM's Founder Dom Yeadon

Download

Introduction: the importance of the right fit in CRM selection

Choosing a student recruitment CRM for your university isn't just about buying software - it's about finding a cornerstone for engagement and efficiency. The right CRM can be as crucial as the perfect pair of running shoes in a marathon: slop around in size 14 wellies, and you're in a world of pain.

Here, I share crucial insights - gathered from hard-won experience - to guide you to the CRM that fits just right, enhancing your operations from day one.

OK, let’s get into those 7 insights:

1. Quick and effective CRM implementation

A rapid deployment is within reach. You don't need to block out months on your calendar; if the groundwork is right, your new CRM can be operational in just 28 days. Key to this is not just choosing the right CRM, but preparing your teams and processes for a quick transition, and working with a supplier who has a proven 28-day process.

Example to Avoid: Don’t let your university's CRM rollout stretched unnecessarily over twelve to twenty-four months due to vague milestones and a lack of coordination, disrupting your entire recruitment cycle.

2. Staying within budget: no surprises

Financial nightmares aren't mandatory. Define your needs, set a strict budget, and stick to it. Scope creep and 'unexpected' costs can be mitigated with foresight and clear contractual boundaries.

Example to Avoid: You need to avoid this nightmare: “a 40% budget overrun because additional 'necessary' features were identified mid-implementation, which weren't originally budgeted for.” Not a great update report to your steering committee!

3. Utilising ready-made solutions

Efficiency doesn't start from scratch. Adopting established templates and practices can save you time and money, reducing the need for extensive customisation and the risks associated with it. Expect webforms, application forms, portals, email templates, and workflows that have been proven to be effective already.

Example to Avoid: Why double your setup costs and timeline by insisting on bespoke features that replicates the functionality of available templates?

4. Trust the demo, question the promises

What you see should be what you get. If a feature isn't working in the demo, don't count on it being developed later. Promises are risky and can result in a CRM that doesn't meet your needs. Only accept future features if they are on an official Product Roadmap with a track record of successive new feature releases.

Example to Avoid: Don’t be left with an inadequate system when the promised comprehensive reporting features fail to materialise.

5. Locking in pricing

Future-proof your budget. Secure your costs at the outset to avoid unexpected price hikes. A fixed-cost contract can protect your financial planning from market fluctuations.

Example to Avoid: Your university doesn’t need the agony of facing an unexpected budget strain when your CRM costs rise by 30% after the first year due to failing to lock in pricing.

6. Avoiding scope creep

Discipline is key. Maintain focus on your essential needs and resist the temptation to expand the project mid-flow, which can lead to cost blowouts and delivery delays. I can count on one hand the big universities who have aimed for the ‘one giant CRM that does it all’ and actually pulled it off.

Example to Avoid: Don’t accommodate every department's wish list, otherwise your CRM project scope balloons, up to tripling the projected costs and timeline.

7. The value of experienced support

Support is not a luxury—it's a necessity. Having reliable experts ready to assist you can make the difference between a minor hiccup and a major disruption.

Example to Avoid: Why let a lack of adequate support turn minor technical issues into major disruptions for your users, adversely affecting the whole CRM experience?

Conclusion

The journey to selecting the right CRM doesn't have to be fraught with uncertainty and risk. Definitely worth reading this: Where choosing David over Goliath makes sense for University CRMs

Armed with these insights, you can navigate the complex market, identify a CRM that fits your university like a glove, and implement it without the drama typically associated with such a significant change.

Choose wisely -the right CRM will streamline your operations and enhance your engagements, proving itself an invaluable asset to your institution. Many UK university users rely on Student CRM to help them recruit more students. Their reviews speak for themselves.

🚀 Happy recruiting!
Dom Yeadon

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Subscribe to my Student CRM Newsletter

Why Dom Yeadon's Expertise Matters

EXTENSIVE MARKETING EXPERIENCE

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENT RECRUITMENT

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

HIGHER EDUCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICES

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A PASSION FOR HELPING UNIVERSITIES SUCCEED

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

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Top 10 CRM personalisations when recruiting university students

tl;dr Data from each student’s Record Card and also from their activities (requests, bookings, applications, etc) can be merged into your outbound communications using Merge Tags.

 A-Z list of merge tags here

A Guide to Personalisation in Student CRM

Welcome to today's exploration of the revolutionary ways we can personalise our communications within the student CRM, courtesy of Dom Yeadon, Founder of Student CRM. This post will distill insights from one of Dom's regular webinars, focusing on the art of personalisation through merge fields and tags. The beauty of this topic is its timeless relevance, making it a treasure trove for both current and future reference.

The Essence of PersonaliSation

Personalisation is not just about addressing someone by their first name. It's about crafting a message that resonates on a personal level. Dom shares insights on how to achieve this by integrating student data seamlessly into communications. From using basic merge fields to sophisticated tags that tailor every message, the webinar covered ground that is essential for anyone looking to refine their communication strategy.

Why PersonaliSation Matters

In an era where attention is a scarce commodity, personalisation can be the key to breaking through the noise. It's about acknowledging the recipient as an individual with unique needs and preferences. According to Dom, personalisation can significantly enhance engagement and response rates, making it a crucial strategy in student communication.

Want to skip the video and get straight to the Top 10 merge tags?

• #10: Known As = [xxxStudent.known_as|Student.first_namexxx] - For example: my given name is ‘Dominic’, however, I prefer to be known as ‘Dom’. Seeing as this ‘known as’ data comes across on my UCAS form, why not use it?

• #9: Establishment Name = [xxxEstablishment.establishment_namexxx] - For example, if your university changes its name, then this will require you to manually change every touchpoint sign off unless you are using this establishment name merge tag. Then it will update immediately as you change it in your Establishment Card.

• #8: Course URL = [xxxCourse.urlxxx] - For example, if you’re recruiting to courses that aren’t validated yet, are likely to change - this is a great way of pointing your students to the freshest info without having to recreate content in templates. It's also a CTA that you can track in terms of website traffic (if you add UTMs).

• #7: Date formatting = [xxxPodInvite.event_date|format=l jS \of F Yxxx] - For example, format any merged dates as: Tuesday 1 October 2019, Tue 1 Oct 2019, Tuesday 1st of October 2019, Tuesday 1st October 2019, or 01.05.2019. Just use the format tags here. NB: Tag above displays this format: “Tuesday 1st of October 2024”.

• #6: Event Name = [xxxMecMobileEvent.event_namexxx] - For example, you are using Event activity types so you can now use the event name and location knowing that you're going to merge this into follow up comms to reinforce the relationship you just instigated “Hey “name” was great to see you today at “location”, “Event name” - can't wait to see you at one of our open days in the future! Make it stick!

• #5: Programme Timetable = [xxxProgramme_timetablexxx] - For example, whether you are running a highly unique day for each student - or a singular homogenous day - doesn't mean it can’t feel highly personal! Share their programme timetable and make them feel special.

• #4: Booking Link = [xxxInvitee.booking_confirm_linkxxx] - For example: if you want students to be able to View, Edit or Cancel their bookings, just add a link back to the booking detail within any touchpoint. It can even be the link behind a button. Read more here.

• #3: Student MIS code = {|Student_Mis_Code|} - For example: link to an online welcome pack, video, or other item personalised for each of your students. Read more here.

• #2: UCAS Applicant Ref = [xxxStudent.ucas_applicant_refxxx] - For example: when sending out invitations for Applicant Days, use this merge tag to display each student’s UCAS Personal ID in their invitation. This allows them to quickly log into the Applicant Open Day booking form and make their booking without having to look it up first.

• #1: Event Joining Instructions = [xxxEvmEvent.joining_instructions_textxxx] - For example: we sent you the Zoom joining instructions in our EVM touchpoints for this webinar using this merge tag.

Dom's webinar was a goldmine of practical tips.

Here's a concise rundown of the top strategies:

1. Merge Tags Mastery: Learn the art of using merge tags effectively to insert student-specific data into your messages. This could be anything from their name to details about their course or application status.

2. Evergreen Content: Crafting messages that remain relevant over time ensures your effort today continues to pay dividends in the future.

3. Simplicity in Execution: Don't overcomplicate your messages. The aim is to communicate clearly and directly, using personalisation to enhance the message rather than overshadow it.

4. The Power of the 'Known As' Field: A simple yet impactful tip involves using the 'known as' field from applications to address students by their preferred names, making your communications instantly more personal and engaging.

5. Event-Specific Customisations: For events, including webinars or open days, using personalisation to provide specific details like event names, locations, and times can make your communications much more effective.

6. Utilising the MIS Code: Integrating the Management Information Systems code can personalise content at a granular level, offering tailored experiences based on the student's unique journey.

7. UCAS Applicant Ref: Leveraging the UCAS Applicant Reference number can streamline processes for the student, making it easier for them to access personalised information or complete necessary actions.

8. Smart Utilisation of Data: From course URLs to birthday messages, every piece of data you have on a student can be a tool for personalisation, used wisely to enhance their experience and your communication's effectiveness.

9. Template Building: A well-constructed template that incorporates merge tags can save time while ensuring that each message feels personal and relevant.

10. Continuous Improvement: Personalisation is not a set-and-forget strategy. It requires ongoing refinement and adaptation based on feedback and evolving best practices.

Implementing Best Practices

Dom's insights also extended to best practices for implementing personalisation strategies. Key takeaways include the importance of not overdoing it, prioritising your communications for personalisation, using customer support as a resource for optimisation, and always exploring new ways to integrate personalisation into your strategy.

The Bottom Line

Personalisation is a powerful tool in the arsenal of student communications. By adopting and adapting the strategies shared by Dom Yeadon, institutions can not only improve their engagement rates but also build deeper, more meaningful connections with their students. As we continue to navigate the complexities of communication in the digital age, let us remember the power of a personalised touch.

🚀 Happy recruiting!
Dom Yeadon

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Subscribe to my Student CRM Newsletter

Why Dom Yeadon's Expertise Matters

EXTENSIVE MARKETING EXPERIENCE

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENT RECRUITMENT

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

HIGHER EDUCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICES

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A PASSION FOR HELPING UNIVERSITIES SUCCEED

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

Is your HE institution running ‘University X’ Applicant Days?

Listen to my blog post: 'University X Applicant Days'

Student CRM's founder Dom Yedon

Download

University X is NOT your university. Probably. But are you sure about that? Read on…

The challenge of standing out in the competitive field of Higher Education recruitment demands innovative strategies. The shift from a generic to a more personalised approach in organising Applicant Days has proven to be a pivotal strategy for universities aiming to increase their appeal and conversion rates.

My blog post today compares the transformation of University X before and after embracing faculty-specific Applicant Days, highlighting the indispensable role of a specialised CRM system.

Applicants want faculty specific interactions, communications and support, not ‘one-size-fits-all’

Before: The Conventional Method

University X's approach to Applicant Days was once characterised by broad, institution-wide events. These events, while comprehensive, lacked the depth and personal touch needed to fully engage prospective students in their areas of interest. Event officers on the ground often wondered how they could satisfy the attendees’ desire for more detailed insights into specific faculties and courses.

After: Implementing Faculty-Specific Applicant Days

In pursuit of a more targeted recruitment strategy, University X adopted a new approach, leveraging the capabilities of Student CRM, a specialised CRM system designed for HE. This strategic pivot involved organising Applicant Days with a focus on individual faculties, each tailored to the interests and aspirations of its prospective student audience.

Strategic Changes and Outcomes:

1. Targeted Invitations: Utilising 'Student CRM's advanced segmentation tools, University X could identify prospective students based on their UCAS choices and directly invite them to relevant faculty-specific events. This ensured high engagement levels right from the outset.

2. Personalised Experiences: Each Applicant Day was meticulously crafted to highlight the unique offerings of the respective faculty, including specialised workshops, faculty-led tours, and Q&A sessions with current students. This immersive experience provided applicants with a vivid picture of their potential future at the university.

3. Improved Engagement: The focused nature of these events facilitated deeper interactions and allowed prospective students to gain a comprehensive understanding of their chosen fields. This personalised touch significantly enhanced the overall applicant experience.

4. Customized Follow-Up: Leveraging the rich data stored against every applicant in 'Student CRM', University X executed personalised follow-up campaigns. These communications were tailored based on the interests and interactions exhibited during the Applicant Days, further nurturing the relationship with each prospective student.

So far, so good

The transformation witnessed by University X underscores the value of investing in specialised, faculty-specific Applicant Days. This strategy, powered by the rich data capabilities and segmentation tools of a specialised CRM system like 'Student CRM', enables universities to engage with prospective students on a more personal and impactful level.

The success of University X's revamped recruitment approach highlights a crucial insight: only by working with a specialised CRM, capable of storing and leveraging rich data against every applicant, can universities truly maximise their recruitment efforts and achieve significant improvements in conversion rates. This targeted, data-driven approach not only elevates the applicant experience but sets the foundation for a more engaged and committed student body.

So, we can manage this in our CRM then?

Yes and no, because not all university CRMs are equal

Our Applicant Open Days is the only app of its kind, once you have seen it you will see its value.

In the ever-evolving landscape of Higher Education (HE) in the UK, university recruitment and admissions teams are constantly seeking innovative ways to streamline processes, enhance student engagement, and ultimately, drive admissions success. While numerous Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems promise efficiency and organisation, the distinct needs of HE institutions call for more than just an off-the-shelf solution. This is where our bespoke 'Student CRM' system, meticulously designed and built in the UK for the HE sector, sets a new standard.

The Unique Demands of Higher Education Admissions:

HE admissions in the UK face a unique set of challenges and requirements. From handling the nuances of UCAS applications to managing intricate student records across various courses and departments, the complexity is substantial. Generic CRM systems, while functional for broad applications, often fall short when it comes to the specific, intricate needs of university admissions.

Why a Specialised CRM Makes a Difference:

Absolutely every detail, setting, default and nuance has been built around observing behaviours and engagement following millions of applications flowing through our platform, year after year. For example: see how easy it is to set up which applicants get automatically invited: Q. How do I use Invite Lists to invite students to my Applicant Open Day?

Custom-Built for HE: Student CRM is not just another CRM; it's a solution born out of an intimate understanding of the HE sector's challenges and opportunities. Developed in the UK, it's fine-tuned to align with the specific workflows, terminology, and compliance requirements of UK universities and colleges. This bespoke approach means every feature is designed with HE in mind, from UCAS integration to bespoke reporting and beyond.

Seamless Integration: One of the hallmarks of our Student CRM is its seamless compatibility with all common university student records systems and UCAS. This integration is pivotal, ensuring that admissions officers have a unified, accurate view of applicant data, streamlining the admissions process, and enhancing communication strategies.

Efficiency and Personalisation: Beyond integration, Student CRM empowers universities to tailor their recruitment and admissions strategies with precision. From automating mundane tasks to facilitating targeted, personalised communication with applicants, our CRM transforms data into actionable insights, enabling universities to focus on what they do best—educating the leaders of tomorrow.

The Difference is Clear: The contrast between a generic CRM and Student CRM is stark. While the former may provide a baseline level of functionality, it lacks the nuanced understanding and tailored features that the latter offers. With Student CRM, universities can expect a system that not only understands but anticipates the needs of the HE sector, offering a level of specificity and support that off-the-shelf solutions simply cannot match.

🚀 Happy recruiting!
Dom Yeadon

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Subscribe to my Student CRM Newsletter

Why Dom Yeadon's Expertise Matters

EXTENSIVE MARKETING EXPERIENCE

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENT RECRUITMENT

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

HIGHER EDUCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICES

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A PASSION FOR HELPING UNIVERSITIES SUCCEED

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

This free playbook reduces the cognitive load on your university student recruitment officers.

Today I delivered another in my series of Founder Webinars. ‘Playbooks are now a thing.’

It is designed to Save your University Recruitment officers by reducing the cognitive load on your team.

Watch the webinar: Playbooks are now a thing

Download our playbook for free: Student-CRM-Playbook-1

This webinar appeals to UK university officers who deal with large volumes of student enquiries:

1. Streamlined Processes and Best Practices The idea that playbooks provide step-by-step guidance and compile expert advice to help people work more efficiently is very appealing. It offers the promise of improved efficiency and productivity.

2. Consistency and Standardisation The playbooks promise consistent execution of tasks, reducing errors, and freeing up more time to be spent productively.

3. Knowledge Sharing The effective transfer of knowledge that playbooks allow can save time usually spent on training or explaining procedures.

4. Understanding Student Expectations The detailed list of what students expect from their interactions with universities can guide the university officers in improving their service delivery.

5. Manageability of Workload The acknowledgment of large workloads in small teams resonates with the officers' everyday reality. The idea that playbooks can break down complex tasks into simpler, manageable steps is attractive.

6. Customisation The ability to customise the playbook to fit the specific needs and context of the university will be very appealing.

7. Measure of Success The mention of key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of the strategies implemented is important.

8. Quick Results The promise of seeing results within 14 days can be very enticing.

9. Support from Student CRM The offer of support in implementing the playbook, including clarification of content, guidance on implementation, and follow-up support, is a big plus.

Where choosing David over Goliath makes sense for University CRMs

Listen to my Blog post: 'Choosing David over Goliath makes sense'

Student CRM's Founder Dom Yeadon

Download

Goliath CRMs (hello Salesforce, Dynamics et al) are excellent, in the right place. Big up the Goliath Massive ✊

but...

It's just that we believe that UK HE Student Recruitment is not always the right place.

An adapted commercial CRM, or a CRM designed for the US market, will probably lack the precise functionality, insights, and regulatory alignment necessary for optimal recruitment in the UK context.

With potential shortcomings and efficiency losses, these systems could ultimately affect your university's recruitment performance and financial health.

David with the Head of Goliath, circa 1635, by Andrea Vaccaro

Whenever we get the question: “why buy from Student CRM? They are not as big as [insert Goliath CRM name here]?” we kinda love it!

That’s the whole point, we are NOT a Goliath CRM, we are a David CRM.

And David won. 🏆

Executive Summary

Dom Yeadon, Founder of Student CRM, Chief CRM Enthusiast Officer

“Navigating the complex landscape of Higher Education recruitment calls for a system specifically built with UK universities in mind. A commercial CRM, or a CRM designed for the US market, will inevitably lack the precise functionality, insights, and regulatory alignment necessary for optimal recruitment in the UK context. With potential shortcomings and efficiency losses, these systems can ultimately affect your institution's recruitment performance and financial health.

On the other hand, Student CRM, purpose-built for the UK Higher Education sector, brings over a decade of specialised experience and a suite of tools designed specifically to enhance your recruitment strategy. By offering rich student data, data-driven automations, and a robust return on investment, Student CRM is trusted by UK universities and consistently delivers impressive recruitment results.

Making the right decision now means investing in your institution's future success. Choose Student CRM to lead the way in Higher Education recruitment and elevate your university's enrollment performance like never before.”

My thoughts are:

1 - Avoiding the Hidden Costs and Challenges of Commercial CRMs in Higher Education

Choosing a commercial CRM over Student CRM for your university's student recruitment can lead to unforeseen difficulties and setbacks. As these commercial platforms are not designed exclusively for Higher Education, they often lack the precise functionality and insights needed for successful HE recruitment.

The first challenge is the adaptation from a commercial to an HE setting. Commercial CRMs are fundamentally designed for sales and do not fully cater to the unique recruitment needs of universities. This can lead to substantial gaps in service and utility, requiring significant time, effort, and additional costs to customise the system to your needs. Moreover, the necessary customisation can often fall short, leaving universities with a less-than-optimal system.

As a result of these shortcomings, your staff could spend more time wrestling with the system rather than using it to its full potential to improve recruitment strategies. This not only affects their productivity but also causes frustration and dissatisfaction among the team.

Furthermore, these gaps in functionality can limit your access to in-depth, meaningful data specifically relevant to the HE sector. This could affect your ability to make informed, data-driven decisions, potentially leading to less effective recruitment strategies and ultimately impacting the quality and quantity of student enrollment.

Adapting a US commercial CRM for UK university use presents not only a significant upfront investment but also considerable ongoing costs. As these systems are not designed with the specifics of the UK Higher Education sector in mind, continuous adjustments are necessary to keep the system relevant and effective. This requires maintaining a sizeable budget for ongoing external developers and consultants. Over time, these costs can escalate, eating into the resources that could be better used for strategic initiatives or improving the student experience.

Furthermore, constant tinkering with the system might lead to instability and potential disruptions, negatively affecting the recruitment process and overall efficiency. Choosing Student CRM, built expressly for the UK Higher Education sector, mitigates these risks and ensures a more cost-effective and seamless recruitment strategy.

In the long run, opting for a commercial CRM could result in a significant loss of efficiency, effectiveness, and return on investment, whereas choosing a purpose-built platform like Student CRM ensures a seamless, effective, and cost-efficient solution tailored specifically for the Higher Education sector.

2 - The Imperative of Choosing a UK-Centric System: Navigating Legislative, Cultural, and Operational Differences

When selecting a student recruitment platform for a UK university, it is crucial to choose a system built for the UK Higher Education sector, not the US market. Despite the shared language, the two markets are fundamentally different, with distinct legislative frameworks, cultural norms, and operational structures. These differences can create significant gaps in the effectiveness of a system designed for the US market when used in a UK context.

US-built systems often don't cater to the specifics of UK data protection laws, equality legislation, and the unique structures of UK universities. Moreover, there can be nuances in student engagement, expectations, and university operations that a US-centric system might not fully understand or address. These shortcomings can lead to compromised system efficiency, potential legal compliance issues, and a lack of cultural fit that could alienate prospective students.

On the other hand, choosing a platform like Student CRM, which is purpose-built for the UK Higher Education sector, ensures that the system you're using is fully aligned with the legal, cultural, and operational realities of UK universities. This results in a more effective and efficient system that can significantly enhance your recruitment outcomes.

3 - Why Student CRM? Unpacking the Unique Benefits of a HE-Specific, UK-Built System

When evaluating your university's student recruitment platform, consider the unique benefits that set Student CRM apart from the competition:

1. Decade-Long Expertise in UK Higher Education: For over a decade, we've worked hand in hand with UK universities to develop a suite of modules, each specialising in a unique aspect of HE recruitment. This deep experience and understanding of the sector ensure our platform is optimally designed to meet your needs.

2. HE-Specific Recruitment Modules: Our suite of specialised modules seamlessly integrates all aspects of HE recruitment into one platform. This means better usability, greater efficiency, and superior results.

3. Rich Student Data for Informed Decision-Making: Our platform delivers the richest student data available, enabling informed, data-driven decision-making that leads to improved recruitment strategies and higher student enrollment.

4. Data-Driven Automations: Streamline the recruitment process with our advanced, data-driven automations. They eliminate manual tasks and significantly improve efficiency, resulting in considerable time and cost savings.

5. Trusted by UK Universities: We are widely trusted and used by UK universities, underscoring our platform's reliability and ability to deliver consistent results.

6. ROI & Cost Efficiency: By streamlining processes and enhancing recruitment results, Student CRM delivers a strong return on investment, contributing to the financial success of your institution.

7. Exclusive Focus on Higher Education: As the only platform in the UK built exclusively for Higher Education - not adapted from a commercial CRM sales system - we ensure optimal relevance and effectiveness.

Student CRM holds a prominent position in the market as the leading purpose-built student recruitment platform, trusted and utilised by numerous UK universities to enhance their enrollment performance.

Dom Yeadon, Founder of Student CRM, Chief CRM Enthusiast Officer

Want to solve your recruitment problems?

We can show you how Student CRM could help you maximise your university’s recruitment results.

Get in touch with a lovely human who understands HE recruitment unbelievably well

In conclusion, Pulse is the solution for UK university recruitment officers who want to increase their student recruitment results. With Pulse's Touchpoints, Reports, and Performance, you can streamline your workflows, automate your communications, and make data-driven decisions to improve your recruitment efforts. At Student CRM, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your recruitment goals and increase student enrolment. Sign up for Student CRM and start using Pulse today to see the difference it can make.

🚀 Happy recruiting!

Dom Yeadon

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Why Dom Yeadon's Expertise Matters

EXTENSIVE MARKETING EXPERIENCE

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENT RECRUITMENT

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

HIGHER EDUCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICES

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A PASSION FOR HELPING UNIVERSITIES SUCCEED

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

FREE GUIDE: Strategic University Problem Solving with Student CRM

TL;DR - Discover the power of strategic problem-solving in student recruitment with our 'Student CRM Problem Solving Framework Guide' – your first step towards transforming your university's recruitment process.

As a student recruitment officer, you're no stranger to the complexities and challenges of attracting new students to your university. The good news? At Student CRM, we've baked a thoughtful problem-solving approach into every aspect of our platform, making it the ideal solution for UK universities seeking to recruit more students.

A Bespoke Approach

Our problem-solving framework isn't just a theory; it's a practice that's embedded into our CRM platform. This means you're not just purchasing a tool when you subscribe to our Student CRM platform, but to a comprehensive solution that's been meticulously designed with problem-solving at its core.

1. Understanding the Problem: Student CRM doesn't just manage data; it helps identify bottlenecks in your recruitment process. Are students dropping off at a particular stage? Are they not engaging with your communications? Our platform helps redefine these problems clearly.

2. Aligning with Stakeholders' Goals: We understand each university has unique goals and stakeholders. Our CRM is designed to be flexible, adapting to your unique needs and ensuring a desirable outcome for everyone – from the university leadership to potential students.

3. Supporting Your Goals and Objectives: Our platform is designed to support your university's core goals and objectives. It's not about adding more features; it's about making the features work towards your unique objective, whether that's increasing international student enrolment or improving student retention.

4. Effective, Reasonable, and Achievable Solutions: Student CRM isn't just about high-level strategies; it's about practical, achievable tactics. From automated communication workflows to comprehensive student profiling, our CRM provides reasonable and effective solutions to your recruitment challenges.

5. Breaking Down into Tactics: With Student CRM, every recruitment strategy can be broken down into manageable tactics. Want to improve engagement? Use our tailored email campaigns. Looking to streamline the application process? Leverage our application management module.

6. Reflecting and Adjusting: We understand that student recruitment isn't static. Our CRM allows you to adjust and prioritise your strategies based on real-time data, ensuring you're always moving towards your desired outcome.

Why Choose Student CRM?

Our platform goes beyond basic CRM functionalities. It's a strategic tool built with a problem-solving ethos, designed to tackle the unique challenges faced by UK universities. By choosing Student CRM, you're choosing:

• A platform designed with a deep understanding of the UK higher education sector. • A tool that offers effective, reasonable, and achievable solutions. • A strategic partner committed to helping you meet your recruitment goals.

In short, Student CRM is more than just software; it's a solution that understands your challenges and offers effective ways to overcome them.

Take the Next Step

Ready to see how our problem-solving approach can transform your student recruitment process? Download our 'Student CRM Problem Solving Framework Guide' today. Discover how we've woven this thoughtful approach into every aspect of our platform, and see why Student CRM is the ideal partner for UK universities looking to recruit more students.

With Student CRM, you're not just adopting a tool, you're embracing a problem-solving approach that's key to successful student recruitment. Don't just manage your recruitment process – enhance it with Student CRM.

Want to solve your recruitment problems?

We can show you how Student CRM could help you maximise your university’s recruitment results.

Get in touch with a lovely human who understands HE recruitment unbelievably well

In conclusion, Pulse is the solution for UK university recruitment officers who want to increase their student recruitment results. With Pulse's Touchpoints, Reports, and Performance, you can streamline your workflows, automate your communications, and make data-driven decisions to improve your recruitment efforts. At Student CRM, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your recruitment goals and increase student enrolment. Sign up for Student CRM and start using Pulse today to see the difference it can make.

🚀 Happy recruiting!

Dom Yeadon

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Why Dom Yeadon's Expertise Matters

EXTENSIVE MARKETING EXPERIENCE

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENT RECRUITMENT

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

HIGHER EDUCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICES

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A PASSION FOR HELPING UNIVERSITIES SUCCEED

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

Benefit from Dom Yeadon's Expertise – Subscribe Today!

If you're a UK university recruitment officer looking to improve your student recruitment performance, subscribe to our monthly newsletter now! Get expert insights, best practices, and industry news delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out on this opportunity to stay ahead of the game.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

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The Power of Pulse: How Student CRM Can Transform Your Recruitment Efforts

Boost Your Student Recruitment Success with Pulse

As a UK university recruitment officer, you're always looking for ways to improve your recruitment efforts and increase student enrolment. That's where Pulse comes in. Pulse is the new app from Student CRM that streamlines recruitment workflows, keeps automated communications up-to-date, and provides real-time reports to help you achieve recruitment success. Let's dive into how Pulse can help you achieve your goals.

Keep Communications Up-to-Date with Pulse Touchpoints

One of the biggest challenges in student recruitment is keeping up with all of the communications you need to send to prospective students. With Pulse's Touchpoints, you can automate your communications and keep them up-to-date throughout the student journey. For example, you could use Touchpoints to send an email to a student who has attended an open day, thanking them for their interest and providing more information about your courses.

Show me how I keep my entire Touchpoints estate up-to-date quickly >

Track Recruitment Activities with Pulse Reports

In order to optimise your recruitment efforts, you need to know which activities are working and which aren't. Pulse Reports allows you to track your recruitment activities in real-time, giving you insight into what's working and what needs improvement. You could use Pulse Reports to track the performance of your social media ads, for example, and adjust your targeting to reach more prospective students.

Show me what I can do with 78 built-in HE-sector specific built-in reports >

Analyse Recruitment Success with Pulse Performance

Pulse Performance provides real-time, top-down reports showing you which recruitment activities are contributing to your recruitment success. With Pulse Performance, you can analyse your recruitment success in real-time and make data-driven decisions to improve your recruitment efforts. For example, you could use Pulse Performance to track the success of your email campaigns and adjust your messaging to improve engagement.

Show me how many student enquiries I need at the top of our funnel for each enrolment >

Why Pulse is the Solution for Your Student Recruitment Needs

At Student CRM, we understand the challenges facing UK university recruitment officers. That's why we developed Pulse to help you streamline your workflows, automate your communications, and achieve recruitment success. Here are just a few reasons why Pulse is the solution for your student recruitment needs:

• Keep communications up-to-date throughout the student journey with Pulse Touchpoints. For example, you could use Touchpoints to send reminders to prospective students about upcoming application deadlines.

• Track recruitment activities in real-time with Pulse Reports. For example, you could use Pulse Reports to track the performance of your student ambassadors and adjust your recruitment strategy accordingly.

• Analyse recruitment success with real-time, top-down reports using Pulse Performance. For example, you could use Pulse Performance to identify which recruitment activities are driving the most conversions and adjust your budget accordingly.

• Improve your recruitment efforts with data-driven decisions. For example, you could use the data from Pulse Reports to adjust your marketing messaging and improve engagement.

• Increase student enrolment and achieve recruitment success. For example, you could use Pulse to streamline your application process and make it easier for prospective students to apply to your university.

How to Get Started with Pulse

Getting started with Pulse is easy. If your university already uses Student CRM we have already added Pulse to your account (for free, forever). From there, you can start using Pulse's Touchpoints, Reports, and Performance to streamline your recruitment efforts and achieve recruitment success.

If you are not yet using Student CRM just get in touch and we can show you Pulse so you can see if Student CRM could help you maximise your university’s recruitment results too.

In conclusion, Pulse is the solution for UK university recruitment officers who want to increase their student recruitment results. With Pulse's Touchpoints, Reports, and Performance, you can streamline your workflows, automate your communications, and make data-driven decisions to improve your recruitment efforts. At Student CRM, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your recruitment goals and increase student enrolment. Sign up for Student CRM and start using Pulse today to see the difference it can make.

🚀 Happy recruiting!

Dom Yeadon

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Why Dom Yeadon's Expertise Matters

EXTENSIVE MARKETING EXPERIENCE

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

IN-DEPTH KNOWLEDGE OF STUDENT RECRUITMENT

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

HIGHER EDUCATION-SPECIFIC SERVICES

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A PASSION FOR HELPING UNIVERSITIES SUCCEED

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

Benefit from Dom Yeadon's Expertise – Subscribe Today!

If you're a UK university recruitment officer looking to improve your student recruitment performance, subscribe to our monthly newsletter now! Get expert insights, best practices, and industry news delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out on this opportunity to stay ahead of the game.

The Rise and Fall of UK Universities: How a CRM Can Make or Break Your Institution

As UK universities face increasing competition for students, the use of a powerful student recruitment CRM has become more important than ever before. In this article, we will explore how a CRM can make or break your institution, and why it is crucial for universities to invest in this technology to stay competitive.

The Importance of a CRM for UK Universities

A CRM is an essential tool for managing the recruitment process, from tracking leads to processing applications and enrolment. With a powerful CRM, universities can streamline their recruitment activities, improve engagement with prospective students, and ultimately increase enrolment rates. Without a CRM, universities risk losing out on prospective students and falling behind in the competitive higher education landscape.

Consider the following scenarios:

• University A uses a powerful CRM platform to manage their recruitment activities. They are able to track prospective students from initial inquiry to enrolment, send personalised communications, and identify trends in their recruitment data. As a result, they are able to increase their enrolment rates by 10% over the past year.

• University B relies on a patchwork of manual processes and outdated software to manage their recruitment activities. They struggle to keep track of prospective students, send generic communications, and have limited visibility into their recruitment data. As a result, their enrolment rates have remained stagnant over the past year.

In this scenario, University A has a clear advantage over University B, thanks to their use of a powerful CRM platform. By using a CRM, University A was able to streamline their recruitment activities, improve engagement with prospective students, and ultimately increase enrolment rates.

The Risks of Not Investing in a CRM

The risks of not investing in a CRM for student recruitment are significant. Without a CRM, universities are forced to rely on manual processes and outdated software, which can lead to inefficiencies, missed opportunities, and ultimately, lower enrolment rates. Consider the following risks:

• Inefficiencies: Manual processes can be time-consuming and error-prone, leading to missed opportunities and delays in the recruitment process.

• Missed Opportunities: Without a CRM, universities may miss out on valuable opportunities to engage with prospective students, leading to lower enrolment rates.

• Lower Enrolment Rates: Ultimately, the biggest risk of not investing in a CRM is lower enrolment rates. In today's competitive higher education landscape, universities that do not invest in a powerful CRM are at a significant disadvantage.

The Benefits of a Powerful Student Recruitment CRM

While the risks of not investing in a powerful student recruitment CRM are significant, the benefits of doing so are equally substantial. Consider the following benefits:

• Streamlined Processes: A powerful CRM platform can streamline the recruitment process, from tracking leads to processing applications and enrolment.

• Personalised Communications: With a CRM, universities can send personalised communications to prospective students, improving engagement and increasing the likelihood of enrolment.

• Better Visibility: A CRM can provide universities with better visibility into their recruitment data, allowing them to identify trends and make data-driven decisions.

• Higher Enrolment Rates: Ultimately, the biggest benefit of investing in a CRM is higher enrolment rates, which can help universities stay competitive and achieve their recruitment goals.

The Bottom Line

In today's competitive higher education landscape, a powerful student recruitment CRM is essential for universities that want to stay competitive and achieve their recruitment goals. By investing in this technology, universities can streamline their recruitment activities, improve engagement with prospective students, and ultimately increase enrolment rates. On the other hand, universities that do not invest in a CRM are at a significant disadvantage, and risk falling behind their competitors.

The bottom line is clear: to succeed in today's higher education landscape, UK universities must invest in a powerful student recruitment CRM. Without one, they risk inefficiencies, missed opportunities, and ultimately, lower enrolment rates. By using a CRM, universities can streamline their recruitment process, send personalised communications, and make data-driven decisions. Ultimately, this can help universities stay competitive and achieve their recruitment goals.

Investing in a powerful student recruitment CRM may seem daunting, but the benefits are clear. By improving engagement with prospective students, universities can increase their enrolment rates and ultimately achieve success in today's competitive higher education landscape. So, if you want your university to thrive, it's time to consider investing in a powerful student recruitment CRM.

https://www.student-crm.co.uk/remote-demo

Student CRM's Founder, Dom Yeadon, brings unparalleled experience and insights to the world of student recruitment. With decades of marketing, student recruitment, and higher education-specific services under his belt, Dom is uniquely positioned to offer the best advice on engaging students and driving recruitment success.

Why Dom Yeadon's Expertise Matters

Extensive Marketing Experience

• Dom Yeadon has a proven track record in marketing that spans several decades.

• His experience and understanding of marketing principles and strategies ensure that the advice and insights provided in the eNewsletter are backed by a solid foundation.

In-Depth Knowledge of Student Recruitment

• With years of hands-on experience in student recruitment, Dom has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by UK universities.

• His expertise enables him to provide practical and effective solutions to address the unique needs of higher education institutions.

Higher Education-Specific Services

• Dom's dedication to the higher education sector has led him to focus exclusively on providing services tailored to the needs of UK universities.

• This specialisation allows him to offer targeted advice and strategies that can have a significant impact on student recruitment efforts.

A Passion for Helping Universities Succeed

• At the heart of Dom's work is a genuine passion for helping universities improve their recruitment processes and achieve their goals.

• His commitment to the success of UK higher education institutions ensures that the insights and guidance offered in the eNewsletter are both relevant and valuable.

Benefit from Dom Yeadon's Expertise – Subscribe Today!

If you're a UK university recruitment officer looking to improve your student recruitment performance, subscribe to our monthly newsletter now! Get expert insights, best practices, and industry news delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out on this opportunity to stay ahead of the game.

How many times can a student be contacted by your CRM?

How to ensure you're staying within reasonable limits and avoiding email overload

The ideal position to be in is knowing that your officers are staying within reasonable limits and avoiding overloading each student with 'too many' emails and texts.

So, how many messages (emails, SMS) is too many 🤯 for each student like Zoe?

Thinking about the immense power of using Student CRM for mass communications for a moment can make you ponder "just how do we guard against overwhelming students with too many emails or texts?". That's a really good question.

More nuanced than simply defining a 'magic number'

The challenge is more nuanced than simply figuring out a 'magic number' above which you do not go. There is no point telling all your Student CRM officers to send no more 2 emails per week to enquirers but if the student is an applicant they can send 4, and so on. It quickly becomes apparent that the University can not be the arbiter of such limits.

Add to that the intricacies of personal taste per student and you end up wondering if there is any answer at all to this challenge. There is.

Personal control is the only answer

Ever since GDPR put the student in charge of what universities can and can't do with their personal data, it became obvious that personal control by each student is the only answer.

It also places responsibility fair and square on the universities' shoulders to make this work. Collect student contact details compliantly, process their data compliantly, and communicate according to each student's wishes. It becomes evident that each student has their own 'magic number' but can't disclose it to you - plus it can even change day by day!

Example 1: Zoe, a prospective student, makes an enquiry (using ENQ, see video) and gets into a helpful email conversation with an officer who, after 20 mins of back-and-forth emails, satisfies that student in a total of 3 emails.

Example 2: Zoe next requests a prospectus to be sent to her (post or digital), and the request web form she submitted her details into now thanks her and says "Hey Zoe, keep an eye out in your (email) or (post) as it will be with you soon". Zoe gets an email touchpoint (sent out from PRQ, see video ) with more helpful info about the course she is interested in (that is an automated Touchpoint that sends her more info about the Law Degree she is interested in). A total of 3 useful emails were sent. 🤗

Example 3: When Zoe ticked the 'sign me up to Uni News' checkbox on that prospectus request form, she knew it would then send her monthly email newsletter and delights in each copy. She knows she can click to immediately unsubscribe from any issue. A total of 8 useful emails were sent. 🤗

Example 4: Zoe then booked onto an open day (using POD, see video) and got an immediate Booking confirmation email. As the days and weeks counted down to that Saturday she received several helpful emails about travel and parking options on-site, and on the day before she got a text with her personal programme for the day and a number to call if she got stuck. Zoe arrived in plenty of time, enjoyed the day, and said so when the follow-up email asked for her thoughts (using SRV). A total of 6 useful emails/texts were sent. 🤗

Example 5: Zoe now applies online and gets her own private Applicant Portal (using APS, see info) inside which she can add details to her application form, upload documents to provide evidence to meet each condition, and, in doing so get emails and timely in-portal messages from her personal Admissions Officer who is guiding her through from Application to Enrolment. A total of 20 useful emails/texts/in-portal messages were sent. 🤗

Let's add up Zoe's magic number

The total count of emails/texts sent to Zoe over an 8-month period was: (Enquiry (3) + Prospectus (3) + Newsletter (8) + Open Day (6) + Application (20) = 40.

It could easily have been 80, if Zoe had engaged more with you, or you had run email campaigns targetting others just like Zoe with extra and helpful info. 🎉

It could just as easily have dropped off at just 10 if you had lost her with unhelpful content or timings in the early days. 🤯

The real question is how to plan so you only ever send out useful and helpful info, so each student stays engaged:

So Zoe's number could have been anywhere between 10 and 80, depending on what YOU did.

Checklist:

• ✅ We are collecting Zoe's personal data compliantly (see video).

• ✅ Zoe can open or close channels (email, SMS, Post and Tel) herself.

• ✅ Zoe can add or remove the Topics she is interested in herself (see info).

• ✅ We send all Emails and Texts to opted-in, open-channel students.

• ✅ We send helpful transactional Emails and Texts to meet the obligations of proving Zoe with an Enquiry service, sending out prospectuses, delivering Event details, and managing her applications.

• ✅ We can see a complete record of all interactions in and out for not just Zoe but for every student (see info).

• ✅ We can see how engaged not just Zoe but every student is (see info).

• ✅ We know how to craft our message content based on each student's persona (see info).

• ✅ We can stop all comms forever in just one click if requested.

Student CRM modules mentioned in this article:

• https://www.student-crm.co.uk/enquiries

• https://www.student-crm.co.uk/prospectus-requests

• https://www.student-crm.co.uk/pre-applicant-open-days

• https://www.student-crm.co.uk/applications

Super segments - fields to filter by

A super segment finds students who have taken part in many activities, such as 'made an enquiry', 'attended an open day', 'applied for 2020 entry', and then 'enrolled'.

Create your own super segment in seconds:

(Image above: this is what a super segment looks like; note that each filter is searching inside a different app.)

Creating a super segment is easier to do when you know which fields to use from each app. This article lists the apps you can filter by and the fields you can use in each app:

AOD - Applicant Open Days

 Bookable . . . . . . . . . . ie: "yes"
 Booked Open Day Date . . . . ie: "3 Jul 2019"
 Booked Open Day ID . . . . . ie: "2544"
 Booked Open Day Name . . . . ie: "New Forest Applicant Day"
 Booking Status . . . . . . . ie: "Attended"
 Course Code  . . . . . . . . ie: "P0980980"
 Course Group Code  . . . . . ie: "ARCH-20"
 Course Name  . . . . . . . . ie: "French History"
 Form . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "UG web form(ID:7070.01"
 Interview  . . . . . . . . . ie: "yes"
 Level of Study . . . . . . . ie: "Undergraduate"
 Occurrence . . . . . . . . . ie: "Applicant Days 2020 (ID:4585)"
 UCAS Course Code . . . . . . ie: "C878"
 Year of Entry  . . . . . . . ie: "2020"

APS - Applications

 Application Status . . . . . ie: "Declined"
 Course title . . . . . . . . ie: "Computer Sciencee"
 Date Created . . . . . . . . ie: "3 Jul 2019"
 Deferred . . . . . . . . . . ie: "Yes"
 Enrolled . . . . . . . . . . ie: "Yes"
 Entry Source . . . . . . . . ie: "UCAS"
 Form . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "UG web form(ID:7070.01"
 Intake Month/Year  . . . . . ie: "September 2019"
 Level of Study . . . . . . . ie: "Undergraduate"
 Occurrence . . . . . . . . . ie: "Passive UG Applications (ID:4585)"
 Qty Enrolled   . . . . . . . ie: "1"
 Qty Submitted  . . . . . . . ie: "2"
 Residency Status . . . . . . ie: "Home"
 Year of Entry  . . . . . . . ie: "2020"

ENQ - Enquiries

 Category . . . . . . . . . . ie: "Admissions"
 Channel  . . . . . . . . . . ie: "IEM"
 Enquiry date . . . . . . . . ie: "Sat 03 Jan 2019"
 Form . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "UG web form(ID:7070.01"
 Feedback . . . . . . . . . . ie: "good"
 Occurrence . . . . . . . . . ie: "Domestic Enquiries (ID:4586)"
 Open/Closed  . . . . . . . . ie: "Closed"
 Owner  . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "Sally Smith"
 Priority . . . . . . . . . . ie: "Yes"
 Status . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "New"
 Updated date . . . . . . . . ie: "Thu 03 Jan 2019"

EVM - Event Manager

 Booked Event Date  . . . . . ie: "3 Jul 2019"
 Booked Event ID  . . . . . . ie: "12345"
 Booked Event Name. . . . . . ie: "New Forest Student Led Tour"
 Booking Status . . . . . . . ie: "Not Attended"
 Course Code  . . . . . . . . ie: "P0980980"
 Course Name  . . . . . . . . ie: "French History"
 Custom field 1 . . . . . . . ie: "custom value 1"
 Custom field 2 . . . . . . . ie: "custom value 2"
 Custom field 3 . . . . . . . ie: "custom value 3"
 Form . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "UG web form(ID:7070.01"
 Level of Study   . . . . . . ie: "Undergraduate"
 Occurrence . . . . . . . . . ie: "Student Tours (ID:4585)"
 UCAS Course Code . . . . . . ie: "C878"
 Year of Entry  . . . . . . . ie: "2020"

MEC - Mobile Event Capture

 Course Code  . . . . . . . . ie: "P0980980"
 Course Name  . . . . . . . . ie: "French History"
 Created date . . . . . . . . ie: "Sat 03 Jan 2019"
 Enquiry Source . . . . . . . ie: "Register your interest"
 Event Name . . . . . . . . . ie: "Student Fair"
 Form . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "RAP - UK Enquiries (ID:6703.01)"
 Level of Study . . . . . . . ie: "Undergraduate"
 Location . . . . . . . . . . ie: "O2 Arena London"
 Occurrence . . . . . . . . . ie: "International Events (ID:4586)"
 Subject Name . . . . . . . . ie: "Art and Design"
 UCAS Course Code . . . . . . ie: "C878"
 Year of Entry  . . . . . . . ie: "2020"

POD - Pre-applicant Open Day

 Booked Open Day Date . . . . ie: "3 Jul 2019"
 Booked Open Day ID . . . . . ie: "12345"
 Booked Open Day Name . . . . ie: "New Forest Open Day"
 Booking Status . . . . . . . ie: "Attended"
 Course Code  . . . . . . . . ie: "P0980980"
 Course Group Code  . . . . . ie: "ARCH-20"
 Course of Interest . . . . . ie: "French History"
 Form . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "UG web form(ID:7070.01"
 Level of Study   . . . . . . ie: "Undergraduate"
 Occurrence . . . . . . . . . ie: "PG Open Days (ID:4585)"
 UCAS Course Code . . . . . . ie: "C878"
 Year of Entry  . . . . . . . ie: "2020"

PRQ - Prospectus Requests

 Course Code  . . . . . . . . ie: "P0980980"
 Course Name  . . . . . . . . ie: "French History"
 Created date . . . . . . . . ie: "Thu 03 Jan 2019"
 Delivery Method  . . . . . . ie: "Post"
 Enquiry Source . . . . . . . ie: "Register your interest"
 Form . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "Rap - UK Enquiries (ID:6703.01)"
 Level of Study   . . . . . . ie: "Undergraduate"
 Occurrence . . . . . . . . . ie: "PG Open Days (ID:4585)"
 Subject Name . . . . . . . . ie: "Art and Design"
 UCAS Course Code . . . . . . ie: "C878"
 Year of Entry  . . . . . . . ie: "2020"

RAP - Rapid Response

 Course Code  . . . . . . . . ie: "P0980980"
 Course Name  . . . . . . . . ie: "French History"
 Created date . . . . . . . . ie: "Thu 03 Jan 2019"
 Enquiry Source . . . . . . . ie: "Register your interest"
 Form . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "Rap - UK Enquiries (ID:6703.01)"
 Level of Study   . . . . . . ie: "Undergraduate"
 Occurrence . . . . . . . . . ie: "PG Open Days (ID:4585)"
 Subject Name . . . . . . . . ie: "Art and Design"
 UCAS Course Code . . . . . . ie: "C878"
 Year of Entry  . . . . . . . ie: "2020"

A super segment of course also includes these fields from the Student Record Card in Student Database:

SDB - Student Database

Address 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Address 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Age . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Consent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
County  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Course of interest - ever . . . . . . ie: "-"
Course of interest - most recent  . . ie: "-"
Course Tag - ever . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Course Tag - most recent  . . . . . . ie: "-"
CRM ID  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Date Created  . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Date Modified . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Date of Birth . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Death/Fraud . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Disability  . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Email Address . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Engagement Score  . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Ethnicity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Faculty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
First Name  . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Form  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Gender  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Last contacted  . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Last Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Level of Study  . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Likehood  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Marketing Unit  . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
MIS ID  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Mobile  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Nationality . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Note Content  . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Note Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Occupation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Opted in to Email . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Opted in to Phone . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Opted in to Postal  . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Opted in to SMS . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Persona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Postcode  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Prospect Status . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
PRV Account Created . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Region  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Responsible . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Source  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Source App  . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Subject of interest - ever  . . . . . ie: "-"
Subject of interest - most recent . . ie: "-"
Team  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
ULN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
UTM Campaign  . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
UTM Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
UTM Medium  . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
UTM Source  . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
UTM Term  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"
Year of Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . ie: "-"

Video: Responding to every student enquiry instantly

Responding instantly to students who contact your university is a top priority.

However, it’s not all that easy to reply quickly, accurately, and store a record of what they asked for together with your reply.

With Student CRM, responding instantly to students is easier than ever before.

Virtual Open Days with Student CRM

Universities are all moving online to host their open days.

Many of our universities use Event Manager (EVM) for their online events. This is how it works:

What’s the difference between on-campus and online (virtual) events?

The only difference is that you and your team welcome your pre-registered and on-the day visitors to your university’s Live Event webpage, instead of your actual campus.

• All registrations go directly into Student CRM.

• All touchpoints go out from Student CRM before and after the event.

• All activity is saved against each student’s record in Student CRM, maintaining an up-to-date record of ongoing activity throughout the Coronavirus impact.

• It is absolutely vital that you get no holes in your data because you go online to manage how the Coronavirus impacts your university’s recruitment events.

We have a FREE one-click integration with Unibuddy.

How to run this season’s events online

1. Create the booking form (in Student CRM)

1. Create an EVM event called ‘Virtual Open Day’, give it a date and start and end times when it will run.

2. Give it a location of ‘online’ and set the event live.

2. Prepare for the live event (in Unibuddy Live)

1. In Unibuddy, set up the event to run at the same date and times as in EVM.

2. Get your team and content ready.

3. Promote (in Student CRM and social media)

1. Create a segment of all the students you want to invite, and paste the EVM Booking form URL (inc UTMs) into your email and send out the invite emails.

2. Give the EVM Booking form URL (inc UTMs) to your social media team as a destination URL for all activity promoting the event.

4. Remind with Touchpoints to increase attendance (in Student CRM)

1. your touchpoints will go out to all students who booked to attend (including details of Unibuddy Live URL), 20 days before, 10 days before, the day before, etc

5. Host it on the day (in Unibuddy)

1. In Unibuddy, run the event.

2. See all the attendees arriving in Student CRM automatically.

6. Follow up (in Student CRM)

1. Find all the students who booked and attended and follow up.

2. Find all the students who booked and did not attend and follow up.

Unibuddy: 187 attended and went straight into Student CRM

Which question in your student enquiry form is DESTROYING your completion rate?

All forms have hidden traps that make some students abandon halfway through. A badly-worded question, unclear options to choose from, help text that makes no sense - the list is endless. But one thing you can’t deny - if you knew what was broken you would fix it, we all would.

Zuko helps you see and fix the questions that make students abandon your web form. This detail is not visible in Google Analytics but it is in Zuko. Yay! 

The answer is simple: As well as Google Analytics tracking, you can now add Zuko tracking to your Student CRM web forms.

Zuko’s web form tracking integrates with Student CRM: Zuko is a cloud-based analytics platform that measures micro-interactions inside your web forms and shows you the pain points and opportunities so you can increase completions.

See which fields users have to return to, spend the most time in and abandon so you can pinpoint potential areas for improvement. 

Cost to integrate = free. See how to add Zuko here bit.ly/crm-directory-zuko