Tips for Getting Your Speaker Seen on Campus
Looking for a standing room only turnout? Here are the hottest tips for getting your speaker seen on campus.
Timing is Everything
When planning an event, consider the rhythm of student life on your campus. For example, schools with a large commuter population might want to re-consider offering a Friday night performance. Finals time might not be the best opportunity for a heady presentation on the future of global politics, but an entertaining, light-hearted program may give students a great reason to take a break and fill those auditorium seats.
Free Stuff
The mantra of college students nationwide. Offer free theme-based giveaways to help raise awareness about an event, and never underestimate the power of the prominently publicized words “FREE ICE CREAM.” It can work wonders for gathering a crowd of
cafeteria-fed, money conscious students.
Make Use of Faculty Resources
Don’t forget to invite campus dignitaries to your event, which can greatly increase a presentation’s profile around campus and in local media. Also, let professors know about your program. Many times, they will offer extra credit to students for attending relevant lectures, or at least help get the word out to their classes. Don’t just send an email; personal invites go a long way.
Advertising and Press Releases
Advertising works best when it’s timely and consistent. Begin advertising in the community and college newspaper at least one month prior to an event. Also, take advantage of college radio and television spots to help publicize. Many speakers will agree to an interview with student newspapers. Make sure to plan far in advance for this and be sure to discuss with your GTN representative.
Paper. Paper. Paper.
Within the realms of environmental consciousness, good old-fashioned paper flyers, posters and handouts are still a great way to make an impression on campus. Post flyers in heavily trafficked areas and hand out quarter-flyers the week of the event. Also ask your GTN representative about any existing promotional materials available on the speaker, including posters and press releases.
Movie Screenings
A movie that doesn’t cost $12.00 will often attract students in droves. Bringing in an associated lecture program is the perfect way to turn a film screening into a major campus event.
Co-Sponsorship with Other Groups
In addition to elevating awareness about a particular event, co-sponsoring with other organizations, clubs or departments on campus can help to meet the cost of bringing in speakers. GTN may be able to help find co-sponsors.
Bonus Activities
Often times, a book signing, press conference, media interview or other special request can be accommodated to help promote an event. Check with your GTN representative about the possibility of arranging such activities as soon as you feel there may be interest. Generally the more notice you are able to provide, the greater the possibility of making it happen.
Get Connected
Share the news of your upcoming event on Facebook, Twitter and your campus social networking site. Be sure to promote on all relative Facebook fan pages including the official campus fan page, sororities/fraternities, student organizations, campus activities and of course, your own Facebook page as well! Feel free to share or embed a promo video from GTN’s YouTube channel. Plus, your GTN representative will be happy to Retweet your promotions on the official Greater Talent Network Twitter page. Just ask!
