HOW  to ACQUIRE - Lead Generation Strategies

Quality online lead generation has become increasingly difficult as the competition for leads grows and the focus on internet marketing continues. Major players continue to drive up the cost of internet leads, while quality decreases in part due to the high demand. Many schools don't realize that the vendor they have chosen for lead generation is likely to be using a string of other vendors to meet the demand. This causes a higher lead cost for a lower quality lead. Low quality leads contribute to lower lead conversion and ultimately to lower student retention.

We have purchased leads from many different providers with varying costs and quality. We have managed admissions call centers and have trained more than 2,000 admissions representatives in effective lead management. We have helped schools examine and improve their lead contact strategy using marketing analytics. While there are many variables in the lead to application process, the initial critical factors include:

	Is the potential student data valid
	Is the potential student qualified
	Is the potential student interested in attending your school
	How quickly does your school contact the potential student
	How knowledgeable and well trained are your admissions representatives and how focused on student retention

Schools often pay extra for "exclusive" leads only to find that those leads have actually requested information from many colleges or universities. In today's fast paced world, students use their internet savy to explore multiple degree websites and request information about both campus and online degree programs. It's more important in an online marketing strategy to pay a reasonable lead cost from a reputable provider that reaches your demographic. Then make sure you have strategies in place to reach out to those leads quickly and effectively.

Because of our experience in working with various lead providers, we have become very selective in our choice of vendors. We will help you examine your current lead generation strategy and conversion metrics and then identify opportunities to improve your conversion.  We look for opportunities to find the best lead generation sources for your school.  

For help with your lead generation needs email us at info@howopportunityworks.com.