A school brand can start off as an intangible positive image that attracts the public to enrol their children there
. An example is the perceived high teaching standards or an impressive list of sporting achievements. Many school administrators do not take a structured approach in developing the school brand and assume that through word of mouth, the school brand will prevail.
This view is erroneous and arrogant. This article will provide relevant tips about developing a school brand.
Alumni Feedback
The best way to start is to conduct a feedback session with the Alumni who are presumed to have experienced the unique culture of the school for a number of years. They can be asked about what they perceived are the strengths of their alma mater.
Teachers' Expertise
Many school administrators are ignorant that their school's unique teaching materials and techniques can be legally protected as intellectual property of the school. This is to prevent competitor schools from using these as their own. However, it is also important to develop a culture of exchange and mutual research with other schools.
School Website
Another cost effective way is to develop the brand from the school website. This can be easily achieved by hosting online forums which discuss about various aspects of the school. Teachers, current students and alumni can use these online forums to interact and bring out new ideas and strategies. There can also be a feedback section to improve the running of the school.
Individual School Email Address
A quick-fire way of creating a sense of ownership and branding is to provide stakeholders with a personalized email address from the school server. This will provide free email storage and create online exposure for your school. However, it is imperative that email users are briefed about privacy and confidentiality clauses. They must also be reminded not to "spam and flame" using these complimentary email addresses.
White Papers
It is very difficult to have credibility if the school does not provide research and white papers that are accessible to the public. These white papers are a quick way of differentiating your school and to highlight your research strengths. Of course, the way forward from here is to create a school press and publish the materials of your teachers. This is crucial as it provides an avenue for your teachers to be rewarded for their specialized writings and inculcates school loyalty within your own teaching community.
Contributing To Society
Every school should develop innovative ways in contributing back to society. In the area of school branding, the public can be provided with free talks in the area of the school's competency or even free tuition for disadvantaged families.
About the author
Colin Ong TS is the Managing Director of MR=MC Consulting Pte Ltd (http://www.mrmc.com.sg)