The mission was clear from day 1:
- To establish a direct line of communication with students, faculty, and administrators.
- To create a strong visibility for the brand and the forthcoming event.
Each day began with a precise route plan, backed by a clear strategy on when to visit, what materials to carry, and how to pitch the brand message.
Strategic planning for maximum drive-in
Preparation played a defining role in the success of this on-ground campaign. The team mapped out college clusters by geography, synchronising visits to avoid lunch breaks and late evenings, and ensured that every member of the team was well-versed with the handout material and brand messaging.
Presentation plays a key role
A proper outfit says a lot about your personality and the purpose of your visit. Hence, the team focused on dressing professionally and carrying themselves with confidence. Scheduling an appointment with the principal of the institution proved to be a fast-track process to convey the message to the right set of audience. What added to the credibility was the personalised event invitation card that the team carried for the respective Principal/head of institutions. Not only did this create a positive impression, but it also served as a tangible marker of intent. Interestingly, wearing the official ‘Academically’ branded T-shirt made them more recognisable and approachable.
The prized skill of adaptability
Colleges are dynamic environments, and not every visit went exactly as planned. When principals were occupied, we adapted quickly, speaking with Heads of Departments, librarians, faculty members, or even campus staff. What kept the team motivated was the constant support of local people around every campus. Their goal was simple: to keep the message circulating to the relevant audience.
Refining the pitch for maximum impact
Professionalism. Personalisation. Effectiveness. The team considered the PPE parameters to ensure the pitch was simple yet effective: “This card is your personal invitation, and this banner is for the students.” We requested stakeholders to photograph the banner and share it via internal student WhatsApp and email groups. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and in most cases, they even helped us display the banner on prominent notice boards.
Engaging the student body
The team considers reaching out to students directly. A direct approach is rather organic than a calculated one. Approaching them directly in their zone- be it classrooms, cafeterias, playgrounds, libraries was a cornerstone of the outreach programme.
Their enthusiasm was infectious. Many of them took pictures of the event banner, which read “Global Healthcare Career Talks 2025- A Meet and Greet with Dr. Akram Ahmad”. They shared them widely within their peer circles. One of the highlights was during our outreach at Krupanidhi College. An impromptu cricket match led to a rather meaningful connection and an opportunity to talk about the event in a fun, informal setting.
At Dayanand Sagar Institute, the team was given a rewarding opportunity to address students inside laboratories, making the interaction more impactful.
Banners in high-visibility zones
We placed banners strategically, in cafeterias, hostels, libraries, and mess halls, ensuring constant visibility. Something happened when the team placed their banners at the girls’ hostel mess. Let’s keep the story a little secret until the team meets you in person at the Bangalore event.
Mobility matters
Little details make a huge impact. The choice of travelling by car had a subtle but noticeable impact. Security guards took the team’s arrival more seriously, facilitating smoother campus access.
To conclude with…
This campaign reaffirmed a truth: students remain the grassroots audience. On the contrary, faculty and staff are facilitators in the outreach journey. Creativity, flexibility, and the team’s collaborative approach towards the task were just as important as planning and presentation.
“When you show up with intention and a little humility, people respond. It’s not just about marketing. it’s about making the best use of the moment that matters.” said Dr. Alok, reflecting on the experience.
There is no substitute for human connection. When you enjoy the hustle, trust your instincts, and believe in your purpose, results follow.
As we look forward to the event in Bangalore, we carry with us not just banners, brochures, pamphlets, and social media posts, but also stories, insights, and the beginning of many new career adventures.
