THANKS!!

That's it!  Pretty simple.... but many times, never only once!

Thanksgiving this week makes this the perfect time to always remember to give thanks for the gifts we've received - and it really helps to remember that EVERYTHING is gift...a gift from God...and how we use that gift...whether it be our time, our talents, and our treasure.  Even though your constituents may not want to be recognized, they appreciate some kind of acknowledgement of their gift.

But wait a minute...that sounds like a development tip...not a marketing tip.  Indeed, it is.  But remember, too, that Marketing is the "origin."  You have to market to four distinctly different groups - current parents to drive Retention, prospective parents to drive Enrollment, external constituenciees (alumni, businesses and community members) to drive Development, and internal constituencies (your parish or church administration and parishioners/members of supporting congregations) to drive Asset Management.  All four of these areas produce revenues for your school.  Marketing does not...it consumes resources in order that the other elements can continue to grow.  Consequently, if you cut marketing expenses, the rest of the system is significantly affected.

As for saying "Thanks," when any source (a newspaper, a TV station, even your church bulletin) provides you with the opportunity for publicity, always acknowledge the activity with some kind of "thank you."

Church bulletin?  Even though the church and your supporting parish or parishes may reserve space for you every week, it's nice to let pastors and the office staffs know you appreciate the opportunity to share what's going on at your school.  It solidifies the relationship of principal and pastor, which is helpful in many ways - the budgeting process, the need for a little extra publicity for a special school event, or the support of a pastor in a difficult parental situation.

For "Another Way to Say Thank You," click http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs071/1101925749604/archive/1102726739607.html to be connected with a tip from JLS Marketing Solutions.  You might want to subscribe to their eNewsletter too!

May your Thanksgiving be celebrated with family and friends, and may we remember those who are far away from loved ones this year in foreign lands, or those that are enduring difficult times.  May we find it in our hearts to share our blessings with them.

Thanks!!