You know that feeling when you’re shouting and no one seems to hear you?
We’ve got the secret sauce to turn your events into the talk of the town
(or the neighborhood Facebook group).
As seasoned pros in the world of nonprofits, we’ve learned a thing or twenty about spreading the word and packing the house.
From crafting messages that’ll make grandma’s knitting club do a double-take, to leveraging social media like a boss (even if you still think ‘tweet’ is something birds do), we’ve got you covered.
Ready to turn your next course into a sold-out sensation? Discover our game-changing tips below!
Tip #1Why should they come?
Addressing pain points is not just reserved for the chiropractor. When promoting your course, think about the problem that you’ll be addressing or the need you’ll be fulfilling that will speak to your audience and entice them to come.
Whether it’s how to better manage their family’s finances to feeling connected with their community, give people a compelling reason to take time out of their busy lives to attend your class.
Tip #2"What class?"
Well, that’s awkward.
To make sure your classes don’t fly under the radar, you’ve got to reach people where it counts, i.e., everywhere. Or, in fancy marketing language, multiple touchpoints – think flyers, bulletin boards, emails, social media, WhatsApp, your website, you name it! These days people are juggling a lot, so getting their attention takes a bit of finesse.
The broader the marketing reach is for your event, the more likely people are to remember it and show up! And hey, if you play your cards right, they might even rope in a few pals along the way.
Tip #3Love at first sight
The reality is that people DO, in fact, judge a book by its cover.
And they will do the same for your event. That’s why it’s wise to use designs that are eye-catching, appealing, clear and organized, and communicate the emotional value of your class. Because a design that tugs at heartstrings might just tug some feet into your lecture room, too.
Tip #4The write words
When it comes to course marketing, good copy is your secret weapon. It can be the difference between “I’d rather stay home and take care of bathtime “ and “Call the babysitter! I gotta check this out!”
You want your words to resonate, to spark curiosity, and to make people feel like they’re missing out if they don’t show up. Or, as the cool kids like to say, FOMO.
Because when your copy is as engaging as the class you’re promoting, people will be lining up at the door.
Tip #5Better now than never
Encourage people to register now, rather than putting it off for later (that elusive “later” never seems to come around…).
Highlight your limited seat capacity or an early bird deadline in your marketing. Add a countdown timer to your site and emails to reinforce the deadline and create that sense of urgency to register before it’s too late.
Tip #6Friends First
Your existing network is a gold mine waiting to be tapped. Think about it: your past attendees, colleagues, friends, and even your sister’s machutanim’s acupuncturist could be your next big promoter!
Leverage your existing network and community to drum up excitement for your event. Encourage past attendees to spread the word, offer referral incentives, partner with relevant organizations, and activate ambassadors who can help promote the event to their sphere of influence.
Ready to make your community go from “What’s that?” to “I wouldn’t miss it for the world!” faster than you can say, “Free cookies at the door!” 🍪?
