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Video: What advice would you give to brands advertising in Freshers?

If you’re a brand or organisation looking to connect with Gen Z students, there’s no better place to start than Freshers. It’s over to the native experts once more – this time to share their nuggets of wisdom for advertisers bound for campus this Freshers.

Charlie Katirai, Senior Account Manager, native: Be as bold and engaging as possible. But remember to be authentic and true to the brand messaging. But definitely be as bold as possible – there is going to be a lot of other brands advertising at this time. So it’s key to make a splash and target them across different channels. 

Sarah Harding, Chief Operating Officer, native: There is that window at the start where relationships are formed, and once the student has found their feet a bit, it’s like [their loyalties are] partially formed. So getting that quick is really key. 

But I also think there’s a lot out there for a student to evaluate and filter through. And so it’s not just about that first Freshers moment. It’s also about all the way through the first year – and in the other years as students, they’re kind of finding their feet, and finding out what they want and need. But also, you know, you’re building a relationship that should last for a very long time. So take it seriously. 

Mark Hodge, Gen Z Marketing Strategist, native: Campuses are that hub and that community where students will look to find out as much as they possibly can. I knew nothing when I got there, and I needed to find out what was good and what was happening. The Student Union for me was just a real good source of information, and even just talking to the individuals themselves would kind of guide you on what happens – where’s good to go and what to do. Being able to market in that environment gives you that edge. It gives you that platform, as well, to be seen as at that forefront. Because if you’ve got bodies like the Students’ Union that are endorsing you, and you’re trusting those individuals, you’re more likely to pay attention. You’re more likely to stick with those particular brands. And it’s about being the first thing to be seen. A student lands on campus as their first place. If you’re in their eye-line straight away, regardless of what service or products you have, you’ve got the best chance as anyone to be able to captivate them and onboard them as a consumer. 

 

Be a highlight for students in the big Freshers rollercoaster. Get in touch today to secure your spot on campus.