30.11.07
Finding the right student fair can be a time-consuming process, and the exhibition itself can be demanding. Irina Tchirkova, from fair co-coordinators Studycentral, offers her tips on maximising the effectiveness of your fair activity
When choosing a student fair, make sure the fair includes studying abroad as one of its focuses and that the exhibition is suitable for the level and type of education you want to promote.
A list of previous or current exhibitors will give you an idea of the type of institutions attending the fair.
Don’t be put off by fairs that have lower visitor numbers. Often, a specialized, medium size fair can offer the opportunity to meet the high-caliber students you are looking for.
What kind of marketing materials should you take?
Consider how much material you will need based on the amount of time you can realistically spend with each student, as well as the visitor numbers and the demand from other sources, such as agents. Take prospectuses, but also take smaller promotional brochures. These are lighter and can help you when your supply of prospectuses ends.
Consider ordering a good number of branded carrier bags and pens. You will need additional pens for students to fill out forms. Pens and bags will also give you additional exposure at the fair.
In my experience, laptops are an important table-top marketing tool. However, be aware that some students may feel uncomfortable interrupting a representative behind a computer screen.
Training your staff to be good ambassadors
Discuss with your staff how you want your institution be represented and what you want to achieve by attending the fair. It is important to know how to use your time at the exhibition effectively.
Discuss how you can motivate students and answer queries. Booking a host-interpreter can have an advantage when there is only one institution representative and you need assistance with registering students and interpreting. Remember that students and education specialists will make judgment on your institution from the representation at the stand.
If you would like to do a presentation
Stand out by creating a lively presentation interesting enough to engage students and professionals. For example, include case stories of current students or ask alumni to speak about their experiences.
Ensure you practice in advance and leave five minutes for questions and answers. If you do a presentation for an education agent, don’t forget to mention your rewards as it is crucial for their business.
How can Studycentral help?
Studycentral offers comprehensive information and fair booking support on more than twenty high-profile education fairs in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Russia and the CIS. We can assist you with distance participation and professional representation of your institutions to target group of students.
We help you avoid various pitfalls, as well as preparing information for you may need. We will also make your stay more comfortable by offering services such as hotel accommodation, airport transfer and interpreter services.
With us, you will have a hassle-free and secure way of planning your participation at exhibitions according to your requirements. More than 30 leading institutions use our services internationally.
Further information
For further details please visit www.studycentral.co.uk.
You can e-mail info@studycentral.co.uk or contact us on
+ 44 (0)1686 630720.