In today’s digital age, where prospective students and families are constantly inundated by (often impersonal) emails, texts, and social media posts, it’s a rare treat to receive something handwritten. Honestly, is there anything that comes close to the authenticity and warmth of receiving a handwritten note? When was the last time you received one? (Because who really does that anymore?)
Receiving a personal note written by hand is such a surprise that it makes a big impact. It acts as physical proof of your school’s commitment to the student, helping them feel seen and valued in an often overwhelming decision-making process. In fact, we’ve heard anecdotes of students showing up to campus — note in hand — asking to speak with the particular admission counselor, director, or faculty member who took the time to reach out to them.
Why Handwritten Notes Work
1. Personalization Builds Trust
Students and families want to feel that their college search is more than just a transaction. A handwritten note provides an opportunity to reference something personal about the student, such as a specific aspect of their application. This small, thoughtful gesture can create a strong bond that goes beyond the standard form letter.
2. Emotional Connection
Decision-making is an emotional process, especially when it comes to choosing a college. A handwritten note conveys care and effort, which helps prospective students feel emotionally connected to your school. It’s a signal that they matter to you, and their future is important to you — not just as a number, but as a person.
3. The Unexpected Touch Stands Out In A Digital World
We’ve already pointed out that in an era where everyone is bombarded with digital communication, receiving a handwritten note can be a refreshing and unexpected change. This element of surprise makes the note all the more effective and memorable, helping your school stand out from others.
4. Building Long-Term Relationships
Admissions doesn’t end when a student enrolls. Building a relationship with prospective students helps you connect them to the institution long before they step foot on campus. A small gesture can play a role in fostering these relationships, not only in the initial stages of recruitment, but also throughout their academic journey.
The Challenge of Scaling & Your Secret Weapon
While you might agree handwritten notes are impactful, the thought of manually writing and mailing hundreds or thousands of them might make your hand cramp up. That’s where Spark451 comes in.
By leveraging student data from your CRM with some creative copywriting, we’re able to automate the whole process using technology — with real pen and ink — to create a piece that feels just as authentic and thoughtful as those written by hand, but in a fraction of the time. For any skeptics out there, you can even select the lettering style and smudge the ink! It’s legit.
How to Make Your Automated Handwritten Notes Effective
1. Be Personal
Whether you draft the copy or lean on a trusted marketing partner, the message needs to be personalized and conversational. Use your own voice, rather than formal institutional language. Leverage available data points such as the name of the campus event they attended, sport you know they play, or academic area of interest.
2. Keep It Brief, But Meaningful
While it’s important to be personal, brevity is key. A few thoughtful sentences that speak to the student’s goals and how your institution can help them achieve those goals will be more impactful than a long, generic note.
3. Include A Call To Action
This could be as simple as encouraging them to schedule a visit, attend an event, or providing information about next steps in the application process. An invitation to take action nurtures engagement with the student and helps you measure the success of the tactic.
4. Timeliness Matters
Sending handwritten notes promptly, particularly after campus visits, interviews, or meeting at events, helps create a sense of continuity and urgency in the recruitment process. Likewise, if you’re pushing a deadline, give the recipient enough time to take that next step.
The handwritten note is a powerful tool in your recruitment strategy. It’s an investment in building authentic relationships and creating memorable, meaningful connections with prospective students and families. In an increasingly impersonal world, taking the time to write a thoughtful note could be the difference that helps your school stand out in their college search journey. So, the next time you’re considering how to engage with a prospective student, remember the power of the (automated) pen. Ask us how.
