April 14th Blog Post.

1. What do you believe would be the most effective way for Seattle University to recruit students and why?

The most effective way for Seattle University to recruit students is to create word of mouth “ambassadors” to speak to parents and high school seniors at targeted high schools. This “push” method of marketing ensures that the target market, (in this case high school seniors and their parents,) receives the intended message. This is in contrast to sending an email to targeted high school students, posting on Seattle U’s Facebook, or advertising on Google—there is no guarantee that the recipient will open the email, be Facebook friends with Seattle U, or notice the online advertisement. Sending an ambassador who is a current SU student not only provides credibility, but also adds a sense of realism to the situation. A high school student will find it easier to relate to someone close to his or her age and may be able to identify with a student ambassador’s experiences, interests, etc.

Creative and unique videos posted on Facebook, YouTube, or the SU website could potentially be a great way to recruit students. A great example is University of Oregon’s “Call Me A Duck” video, which is found right on its office of admissions webpage.

2. Pick an online coupon you have used or would use and explain where you found it, why you use it, and why it's a benefit to you as a consumer.

I recently received a coupon from DSW, via email:

As a frequent shopper of DSW, $15, $30, or $50 off a purchase sounds like a pretty good deal for me. Furthermore, because this offer is only sent to DSW Rewards members, it has an added element of “exclusivity.”

3. How do you feel about getting ads on your cell phone in the form of coupon codes that would offer you 50% discounts or two-for-one at your favorite restaurant?

If I, as a recurring customer of some restaurant had opted-in to receive coupon codes or discounts, I would probably appreciate the ads. However, if the ads were unsolicited, I would more likely find them irritating. It would also depend on when these ads would be received and how often they would be received.