In today's world, many organisations and companies are looking for more and more innovative ways to market their wares, and are seeking out new target markets. Students are a huge demographic that remains relatively untapped in many ways- here are four simple ways to market a product effectively to them.
Give Them 'Free Stuff'
The defining characteristic of many students is their, shall we say, 'laid-back attitude,' often interpreted as sheer laziness. They will often ignore any marketing materials that are simply designed to promote a product in their direction, especially given that many of them consider themselves too independent to 'give in' to advertising. Combat this by ensuring that marketing efforts benefit them in some way- offer them free samples, 'money off' vouchers, or a place in a prize draw; anything that ensures that they expect to gain from investigating the product further.
Target Your Marketing
Marketing to students in general can be a tiresome process. Whether offering them an opportunity or trying to get them to buy a product, they are such a diverse group that very few products will interest all of them. Make sure marketing is targeted at the right groups- if offering work opportunities, don't just talk to students on campus, go to supplementary lectures which only the most high-potential students will attend. If trying to sell an energy drink, don't just distribute it randomly- offer sports teams a free supply if they wear the logo on their shirts.
Identify Their Habits
These days, 90% of students have an account on Facebook, Twitter, or some other social networking site. This is an advantage to any business or organisation willing to branch out and use such sites for their own benefit. If students can look something up on Facebook, or 'follow' it on Twitter, they're far more likely to pay attention to it- this represents a unique opportunity for brands to force themselves into the already crowded consciousness of the average student.
Develop Positive Associations
Don't be afraid to develop connections with student societies, sports clubs, or any other student groups that might help provide a platform for marketing opportunities. Student societies such as SIFE or AIESEC can provide a huge number of high-potential students for those marketing work opportunities, while sponsorship of a student sports team might increase a brand's presence in the local area. Be creative in constructing associations- if someone might be able to help, contact them, no matter how incongruous they are to your business.
Whatever the product, students are a hugely valuable market in today's financial environment- harness the power of directing a product towards them, and business could benefit hugely.
 |
