Summer is here, and with it — summer bucket lists! You know what we’re talking about… all the wonderful things we want to do while the weather is warm and the days long. At the top of that list always seems to be “go on vacation!” but, since we can’t take the whole summer off (disappointing, we know), we’re here to provide a different type of summer bucket list: the get-your-CRM-ready-for-the-cycle-ahead list!
So put on your favorite music, pour a cold drink (iced coffee, anyone?), and get ready to dive in.
Bucket List Item #1: Cycle Prep
You’ve likely already gotten started on this one, but just in case you haven’t, we’re here to remind you: The time to start cycle prep is now! This critical process is key to a successful and smooth transition to the new recruitment cycle, so don’t put it off any longer. Not sure where to start? Check out our previous blog posts for comprehensive lists of action items:
Spark451’s Guide to Slate Cycle Prep
Essential Cycle Prep for All CRMs
Pro Tip: Cycle prep is an excellent time to start implementing past project ideas that never came to fruition as well as building upon those that were possibly started but never finished.
Bucket List Item #2: Collaborating
You know that post-conference feeling? The excitement of returning to the office knowing that any project, big or small, can and will be tackled? For most of us, that feeling is a bit too temporary… reality sets in and questions start arising: How exactly am I going to build out those dream features? Do I have the time for this? Where do I even start? 🤔
The answer? Teamwork! There’s no need to go at these projects alone, so this summer, see if you can gather at least three people to help you. The expertise, input, and hidden talents you’ll uncover will undoubtedly bring your projects to new heights.
Pro Tip: Turn the business cards you’ve collected into actionable next steps by connecting online with the people you’ve met. Whether it’s building connections, sharing ideas, or partnering with Spark451, don’t let new faces fade away!
Bucket List Item #3: Training
Between the turnover of your student workers and new staff hires, training should never be put on the back burner. Investing in your team’s technical abilities has long-term benefits and learning new skills helps them and you.
If you’re wondering where to find your next Slate, Element451, or Salesforce subject matter expert, look no further than IT staff and eager student workers. Sometimes the next great thought leader in your office is already there!
Bucket List Item #4: Events
Summer is prime event time, with new student orientation, arrival day, and increased campus visits taking center stage. Stay organized and on top of all those moving parts by using your CRM (so long, Excel spreadsheets! 👋) to track attendee details and staff availability, and to create timely communications that keep every audience engaged and informed.
Pro Tip: Hoping to get a bigger budget for future events? Nothing says “this is worth it!” more than a report showing how these events impact yield. Be sure to take full advantage of your CRM’s reporting capabilities and track, track, track!
Final Thoughts
With your focus now shifting to next year’s class, don’t forget about your incoming students and families. They have questions that need answers, and giving them some extra support in the coming weeks will pay off in the long term.
Need help building an anti-melt campaign? We have some tricks up our sleeves we’d be happy to share with you! Reach out anytime to discuss your needs and explore how our flexible SparkAssist service can help you get the most out of your CRM!