by Dan Christensen, Tudor Collegiate Strategies
Consistency in your recruiting message is critical. In our research at Tudor Collegiate Strategies, 8 out of 10 recruits say that inconsistent communication from the coach was a reason they lost interest in that school.
So, clearly recruits want to be hearing from coaches consistently throughout the recruiting process.
But, why?
What are the reasons they want this level of communication and what makes it so effective?
Here are two for you:
1) Consistency stands out
Let’s be honest. The daily and weekly coaching life is far from consistent.
Players unexpectedly drop into the office. Practices and games get cancelled due to poor weather. There is the occasional week where there are three or four away competitions. Situations at home that need urgent attention come up.
It is hard to maintain a consistent message with your recruits amongst all these variables. So, because few are able to do it, the coaches that are able to achieve that consistency stand out amongst the rest.
And that is really the goal of recruiting. To stand out as a unique option that your prospect feels is the best.
And the good news is that no matter what division level or conference you coach in and no matter how good your facilities or previous record are, any coach can be the most consistent. As long as you have a strategic messaging plan that you stick to!
2) Consistency provides proof you want that recruit
One of the most critical factors in a recruit’s final decision is where they feel the most wanted.
Do you think dropping a message to your prospects, every once in a while, when you have the time, will make them feel you really want them?
Of course not!
If you really wanted them, wouldn’t you be communicating with them consistently? That is what your recruits are thinking! They want to go where they are wanted and consistency gives off the idea every single week, that you are thinking about them and want them on your team.