Engaging audiences like Gen Z graduates isn’t easy. Traditional methods—think cold calls and generic emails—often fall flat. At Insightrix, we know that if you’re not meeting your audience where they are online, you’re missing the mark. It’s time to adopt a digital-first strategy that truly speaks to today’s survey participants.
Step 1: Build a Brand That Stands Out
Craft a Study Identity That Demands Attention
Your study isn’t just another survey—it’s a brand. Develop a bold name, a clear concept, and a resonant story. A strong, authentic brand builds trust and makes people want to get involved. No fluff, just clear messaging that hits home, making potential respondents more likely to participate.
Real-World Impact: Co-Branding with Post-Secondary Institutions
In 2024, we partnered with several Canadian post-secondary institutions to launch co-branded surveys for graduate outcome studies. We cut through skepticism by securing memorable domain names like GradStudy.com and aligning our visuals with institutional identities. The result? Studies that looked credible and boosted response rates by around 10%.
Step 2: Upgrade Your Data Collection Methods
Create a Landing Page That Converts
Once the audience’s needs were established, we developed a message highlighting the study’s objectives and ethical principles. Our creative team creates the landing page to be:
- Engaging: Interactive elements and strong calls to action grab attention.
- User-Friendly: Optimized for mobile and straightforward to navigate.
- Secure: Built-in privacy measures like gated access ensure trust (requiring a student number or unique email code).
Take our work with Norquest College as an example. We reinforced trust and streamlined access using dual domains (such as ‘NorquestGraduateOutcomeSurvey.com’ and ‘GraduateOutcome.Domain.com’). This wasn’t just a one-off. It also set the stage for future surveys.
Your landing page is your digital front door—make it count.
Leverage the Power of SMS
Let’s be clear—SMS works. With open rates nearing 98%, text messages cut through the digital noise. A recent graduate outcome survey conducted for a Western Canadian Polytechnic Institute showed a 24% jump in responses halfway through data collection. Pairing SMS with branded messaging allows you to speak directly to your audience.
Benefits of SMS Surveys for Graduate Outcome projects:
- High response rates due to instant message delivery
- Accessibility for participants with unreliable internet access
- Personalization options for improved engagement
- Increased trust when integrated with branded messaging
Engage on Social Media, Not Just Promote
Social media isn’t only for likes and shares—it’s a powerful tool for engagement. Set up dedicated study accounts, run targeted ads, and partner with influencers or alumni networks. When we managed a graduate satisfaction study with an Alberta-based polytechnic, we tailored social media strategies across different alumni groups that helped improve our response targets.
Step 3: Go Multi-Channel for Maximum Impact
Be Transparent and Direct
Tell your audience exactly who you are, why you’re asking, and how you’ll use the data. Clear, upfront communication builds trust. There’s no room for ambiguity—if people understand the purpose, they’re more likely to participate.
Use Every Available Channel
Don’t rely on a single method. Combine:
- Email Campaigns: Personalize follow-ups.
- SMS Reminders: Capture immediate attention.
- Retargeting Ads: Bring back those who nearly clicked.
- Collaborations: Expand your reach through partnerships.
A perfect example? In 2024, our collaboration with a Western Canadian polytechnic for a graduate satisfaction survey blended a branded landing page with SMS invitations. This multi-channel approach delivered measurable improvements in both engagement and overall satisfaction.
Ready to Level Up Your Research Approach?
Cut the excuses. A digital-first strategy is not just the future—it’s the now. You can use targeted branding, interactive digital tools, and multi-channel outreach to revolutionize your survey data collection. If you’re ready to ditch outdated methods and see actual results, connect with Insightrix today. Our team is here to help you engage even the toughest-to-reach participants with clarity, authenticity, and a no-nonsense approach.
Let’s get to work and make your research a game-changer. Learn more about our graduate outcome services at Insightrix by downloading our GradTracker brochure here:
