Getting the Word Out

It takes time and energy to develop campus events and activities, and communicating to your target audiences should always be a priority in order to ensure success. For help, reach out to a member of the College Relations team.

Lead time and budget are the primary considerations when it comes to promotions. 

No-cost options you can do on your own

• Email
• Web Calendar (must write title and description when you enter your event in 25Live)
• Club or group social media accounts (if you already have a relevant account)

No-cost options that require College Relations (contingent on lead time*)

• Campus digital signage
• LCC Social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.)
• Press release if appropriate (must go through LCC's Public Information Officer per our Media Policy and comply with applicable laws, regulations and college policy)
• LCC Website (news feed/homepage or department page if relevant)

Additional options if you have a budget

• Digital advertising
• Print advertising (TDN, etc.)
• Print materials (posters, flyers, touch cards, etc.)
• Radio advertising
• Streaming television or YouTube ads (requires video collateral, which also has an associated cost)
• Direct mail/postcard

Crafting your message

In addition to being written in clear, plain language, most effective messages typically provide enough information to answer the following questions:

• What's in it for me? What will someone gain by participating in your event or activity? What do you have to offer?
• What is the call to action? What do you want people to do after seeing your communication? Think action words: save the date, mark your calendar, come on down, etc.

Prompts that may help you with planning

• What are your goals and objectives for the event or activity? What are you trying to accomplish?
• What groups or subgroups (audiences) do you want to tell about your event? Note: "everyone" is not an audience!
• What is your timeline for communication of the event or activity? In other words, how much lead time is available to get the word out?
• Do you need to create an evaluation for the event, or will you measure success in terms of attendance?
• What is your budget?
• What information or materials do you need to gather in order to promote the event? This might include biographical information about a speaker, photos or other images, etc.

 

*For larger events or activities, please loop us in at least two months prior to your event to allow us to serve you well. A minimum of three weeks of lead time is essential for any event you would like College Relations to promote.