What's in an award?

Beverley Hoare, Deputy Director of MARC

Why do we bother to enter awards?  It’s a lot of time and effort for potentially nothing, isn’t it?

Gearing up for awards season

Well the Marcomms team have been busy submitting entries for a range of marketing and communications awards with HEIST, CIPR and IoIC, so I guess they think there’s a point, but here’s a few thoughts from me on why I think they are important.

A win or making a shortlist is a pat on the back - recognition from our peers that we are achieving the highest, most innovative standard of work.

We can learn from others who are showcasing their own best practice – they set the bar and we try to raise it.

We gain clarity about our achievements and what we had to do to make them happen.  The looking back exercise, pouring over data and evaluating ourselves is critical for future performance; the award submission provides the focus and motivation to make us reflect.

Busy cobbling together this years' @heistawards entry for @uniofbeds. Nothing beats an afternoon of number crunching data 🤓💼📊📝 #heist2017

— Sarah De Guzman (@Sarah_Hampton) February 22, 2017

It helps us to network; awards ceremonies are some of very few opportunities to get out of the University, share experiences with others and cement relationships with peers.

We can dress up and celebrate our achievements together, as a team – being nominated has a contagious effect on our mood.

Our @Beds Newsletter has been short-listed

I can say that all this effort has given us a pretty good run of award winning over the last 5 years, but wins at HEIST have alluded us recently.  So we’ve tried even harder and submitted a more solid entry this time.

I’m delighted that in the latest run of awards we have been shortlisted by the IoIC for our staff newsletter ‘A new lease of life for staff news’.  Jenny and Caroline will be attending the ceremony in York later this month and will hopefully come back with a piece of crystal for the bulging trophy cabinet. Watch this space…

More speed, less haste!

By Sarah Hampton, Marketing Manager

Plate spinning - a busy time for
the HE Marketer

Well where did that week just go? It's been an incredibly busy week over here at Marketing HQ.

Not only have we been busying ourselves with the post 15 January communications to our applicants, but we've been implementing our open day campaign; readying ourselves for open day season which kicks off next week for both UG and PG, and helping the recruitment team with marketing collateral to support their events and upcoming UCAS fairs, which seem to be briefed in en masse at the moment.

One man band - the multi-
tasking Marketers

But the biggy for this week, most definitely has to be the fact that we're in the final stages of both our main UG 2016 prospectus, and the mini guide. 'So what?' I hear you say. All in a days work you may think. Well, that may be the case if I wasn't trying to do all of the above, and then some, by myself, on top of my day job. As mentioned in previous posts, our Marketing Assistant Clare left just before Christmas to embark on an adventure as she travels along the west coast of America. And Kylie, our Marketing Officer, is also away at the moment, holidaying in the tropical destination of Cuba, which means that we're a little depleted at the moment and for a few more weeks still to come. It certainly makes the days go by very quickly considering the volume of work I've been ploughing through lately, and a big nod has to go to Krystle who has been great in holding down all of the campaigns which we're running at the moment.

New recruits joining the team
shortly

In between all of the madness and mayhem, we've been able to get our new Marketing Assistant vacancy advertised (hurrah!), and so we'll keep you posted on how the interviews go towards the end of February, and we should hopefully be welcoming a new member to the team very shortly. I've also taken part in a number of interesting discussions, as the Marketing team is set to expand once more - we're also currently advertising for two Faculty Marketing Assistants who will hopefully be joining us within a matter of weeks. I couldn't be happier. These new roles will present a much needed resource and link to the Faculties, and will really cement our focus on collaborative working across the organisation. I'm particularly excited, as the two new post holders will be heavily focused on content generation - and so if you've been reading this blog recently, you'll see that one of my main priorities and favourite buzz words at the moment is content marketing, and it will be great for us to further enhance the work of the team by demonstrating value through producing and sharing engaging and dynamic content. So I can't wait for all of these exciting team developments to start taking shape.

Team away day

This Wednesday the CRM, market research and marketing teams escaped the office for an afternoon of team bonding at our away day at Putteridge Bury campus.

It provided the perfect opportunity to step back and look at the great things we've achieved as a team over the past year, and gave us a chance to have some fun too. From quizzes to photograph missions to drawing challenges, the day had something for everyone.  I was almost entirely useless during the quiz, but a highlight was my team's creative efforts during the Christmas selfie task.

The team put some serious effort into our selfie...

It was great to get out of the office for an afternoon, and to have some festive fun with the whole team.

Amongst all the fun I've been working hard on lots of different jobs, from the 2016 undergraduate prospectus and departmental conversion newsletters, to verbal brand notes and video filming for the next virtual open event. As always, there's a lot going on and there are lots of deadlines on the horizon.

On a slightly different note, this may well be my last blog post! I'll be leaving the University and my last working day will be Christmas Eve. In the new year I'll be going to America for a couple of months to travel. I've really enjoyed working for the University and a huge bonus has been working with the really great people in the MARC department. I'll definitely keep in touch!

Have an excellent holiday and a very happy Christmas.

Clare

Work hard and...work harder

By Michelle Ramsumair

Recently I attended the CIM Writing an integrated marketing communications plan training day in Euston, London. The title is pretty self explanatory and it’s something we should all be doing in some way but we don't always take the time to step back from the daily grind to really consider exactly why we are doing what we are doing. It was reassuring so see we are on the right track but learnt a lot from the workshop leader and hearing feedback from other organisations in different industries.

We are currently looking to work with a media agency to assist with the logistics of the campaigns. We have never done this before but with the number of campaigns we roll out now it has become more apparent this is needed. The challenge will be making sure everything from the bookings to the artwork is as transparent and integrated as possible. However, here we do enjoy a challenge and for me it’s a new project to sink my teeth into.

We had our first Applicant Open Day this Saturday gone at our Bedford campus which was very successful. I always enjoy working these and helping nervous applicants and parents as much as possible. Everyone enjoyed the day and improvements for this type of event definitely paid off. Our next one is at our Luton campus this Saturday 08 February where more registrants are expected. I think flat shoes are in order again! For further information about our open days feel free to visit www.beds.ac.uk and click '2014 Applicant Open Days' for more details. 

I am currently working on a campaign for Aylesbury to promote the March intake for Adult Nursing. As we haven’t done much promoting for this in the past, it is very interesting to work on as we will be able to better measure and review throughout as it is very specific. If you know anyone who maybe interested why not recommend they come along to our healthcare open day on Saturday 15 February at our Aylesbury campus.

With all the above going on it's important to just break away, maybe to some scenic views and fresh air. I was either rather brave or silly but I decided to take a trip to The Downs on what was possibly the windiest day of the week. Enjoy the view!

Tis the festive season

By Michelle Ramsumair, Marketing Administrator

It's almost Christmas!!! Time has definitely flown by and it's that festive time of the year again. We decorated our office yesterday so feeling much more in the spirit. If you haven't got a tree up or decorated your office then what are you waiting for?

Last week was a taste of sweet and sour as our Director of 17 years left sadly. She has seen our department through many changes and it has grown into a great department to be a part of. Although it is sad we also wish her every success where she is moving to. We had a nice leaving and Christmas do at G Casino Friday, which did consist of some gambling but more drinking I think! We also got our secret santa, someone knows me well!

So campaigns have been keeping me busy, but I have to say I am enjoying them. They involve a lot of co-ordination and attention from the initial draft plan (even before then) to the evaluation after. We are very fortunate to have a great team who word hard and endlessly on these. It is always fun when the companies you build relationships with treat you just show their appreciation. I was lucky enough to be invited by Heart FM to attend the Luton Best Awards as their guest. It was a great evening in at Warren Weir, Luton Hoo with amazing people. I really enjoy meeting interesting people whether at events or when meeting a company to see what they offer and how they may be able to assist with our campaigns.

At the moment I am also studying a CIM Professional Certificate in Marketing. It's definitely tough getting back into studying, but I have a huge amount of respect for anyone who chooses to study whilst looking after their family and working full time. I certainly can't complain, I have it rather easy!! Had my first exam last week and it was scary to say the least. There is so much to learn, but with fun colleagues and tutors working in marketing in various sectors we are never stuck for discussions, and we are all super supportive of one another. Couldn't have asked for a better group.If you are working in marketing or looking to go into it, I would highly recommend becoming a CIM member and looking into what courses and training they have to offer. For new starters in marketing it is a step onto the ladder, for those already working in this area it helps you progress further. There are also other professional bodies to look at if you want to go into other areas of marketing. Why not take a look and see all the options available to you. New Year's resolution perhaps...?

Tomorrow I fly off to Israel for a week, so I am trying to tie up everything to hand over. Definitely excited as it is somewhere different and many people have said how much I will love it out there. Will have photos to show when I return. I better get on with some work so have a great week shopping and decorating everyone!

Stepping out the office

by Michelle Ramsumair, Marketing Administrator

Starting work when it's dark enough outside to still sleep definitely tells me it's almost time for those delicious limited edition Costa hot beverages. The beautiful festival of lights is also approaching on the 03 November. For all those celebrating I wish you a very happy Diwali in advance. Next Halloween and Christmas!

Weeks are flying and it's almost time for my holiday, but more on that at a much later date. In the meantime the team are working hard in one of the busiest times of the year. We mostly remain in our office, but all our hard work can be be seen by those outside. Our second wave of the Winter Campaign is about to start so make sure to look out for us. We couldn't let you forget us after Clearing now could we?

As October open days pass we start preparing for 16 November open days at our Luton and Bedford campuses. It's always interesting and fun to meet nervous potential students and their encouraging parents. Reminds me of when my mum and I started looking at universities. I remained quiet and my mum would push me forward slightly saying 'You're the one applying not me, say something'. It's the best way to find out everything you want to know about where you will be spending some of the most important years of your life. Not to worry though, just remember everyone is in the same boat.

I recently attended a CASE Publications Forum in London. It's always great to escape the office for a day to network and see what more you can learn in the world of marketing. The importance of publications, working with agencies and story telling are the main areas we covered. I came away with many interesting points to feedback to the team, whether it was reassurance we are on the right track or learning something knew. It was definitely beneficial for all who attended.

Amongst the daily race we are running there has to be some fun right? So I've recently found a new hobby... snowboarding! Well I've done level 1 and level 2 this weekend. Not quite flying down mountains and doing tricks just yet but that's all in good time. All I can say is if your skiing or snowboarding next year...be careful on the slopes! I may be hurtling past you. So if you see someone screaming, zipping past you and they are still standing, that's not me. If you see someone screaming and rolling past you..bingo!

Wish me luck!

Well deserved fun needed I think!

By Michelle Ramsumair, Marketing Administrator

Firstly, a huge congratulations to Sarah Hampton for her promotion to Marketing Manager! Truly well deserved and she is going to do a superb job I’m sure.  If you can’t tell already it’s all happening in our team.

If you haven't noticed us about with our Clearing advertising and appearances at various locations in Luton and Bedford, a summer holiday is not an excuse! It's pretty hard not to see us, and we have a number of events coming up.  

Wednesday 11 September 10.30am-3pm we have our first Open Event during the week for anyone interested in 2014 entry. It will be at both our Luton and Bedford campuses so a huge department effort is being made. If you or you know anyone who may be interested come along.

On Wednesday 18 September from 1-7.30pm the public will be able to drop-in to our new campus UCMK! With brand new facilities and academics there to talk to, it will be the perfect opportunity to find out what it would be like to study with us. There are full-time and part-time courses available, so if you are interested why not come see us. It’s a good excuse to have a snoop around too. For more information, visit www.ucmk.ac.uk.

At the moment you can tell it's rather manic, working on current campaigns and the beginning of our Part-time and Winter Campaign also. Now we are out and about we won't be going anywhere, so watch this space to see what's coming next. Obviously after a non-stop few weeks we deserve to let our hair down, so a group of us gorgeous ladies will be going out tonight. It could get a little messy but it's much needed indeed. Although summer is at an end why should the fun stop right? Have a great relaxed or lively weekend!

There's no stopping us now

By Michelle Ramsumair - Marketing Administrator

Here's my proof!

I have come back to the buzzing office after a couple days off. One of these days included climbing through the trees, pushing your body to the limit and playing Tarzan. Let me put it this way, Go Ape is amazing and highly recommended, but then I soon realised, coming back to work, that Clearing is very much the same as it's just as crazy! As I don’t have any photos, certain colleagues such as Lauren doubt my adventurous side.

Clearing campaign 2013 (bus rear)

August has finally arrived and ongoing preparations for this busy month and Clearing continue. No matter how prepared we are, it will only get busier, but our teams are ready to hit the ground running come 15 August, so bring it on! If you haven’t seen already or read the previous post, our Clearing campaign has started early this year.

We have a lot going on from buses and billboards which are already up, to...well...you will just have to wait and see. Other universities have begun early this year too, so as well as our own promoting we are keeping an eye out to see who is doing what. It’s rather interesting and nothing wrong with some healthy competition. I managed to catch a glimpse of our advert on some buses locally and in London.

Maurice the Marketing Penguin

Lauren’s last week with us has arrived sadly. However, she is just moving to the Digital Marketing team which is a stone throw away on the next pod. So we will just have to shout a little louder to speak to her really. We are all very happy for her moving upwards and it’s nice to know we will still be supporting one another.  

New member of the team!

By Scott Buist - Marketing Assistant

So I wanted to introduce myself as the newest member of the team. I very recently started (Monday last week) and can’t believe I’m two weeks into the job already! Time fly’s when you’re busy and that’s certainly what we are. I am employed to help the marketing team of the University of Bedfordshire during this very busy period, helping with all sorts from clearing to the new prospectus.

My first week was a bit hectic as all jobs are when you are learning the ropes. We had a team meeting within two hours of me starting, where Sarah, Michelle, Lauren and Rehanna were all discussing progress on their various projects and future ones. I had a blank face through some of it, but was fast making notes to look up when I got back. It was a quick learning curve to say the least!

Currently my mind has eased as I have a much better understanding of how the University operates. I have been given some exciting projects which I have got stuck into. I’m sure some of you will see my handy work in publications such as the new subject guides and the new Postgraduate prospectus, which are going to print as I write this message!.

 Hope you all have a great day. Let’s all hope this lovely weather continues!

Away we go!

By Michelle Ramsumair, Marketing Administrator

Our new office - Atrium

Change is good they usually say, and this week proved no different. We are now settled into our new spacious office in the Atrium! Obviously we had the initial big decisions about how we want our desks and which crate to unpack first, but everyone seems happy. I do believe we need some scooters or segways to get around it though, can only dream right?

This is our home for the next few years whilst the big redevelopment of the University’s LRC is taking place. 

UCMK prospectus cover

The new University Campus Milton Keynes (UCMK) prospectus has been printed and was given out at the UCMK launch yesterday. This is just a snapshot of the front cover, but do look out for it on the website www.ucmk.ac.uk. 

Never having been so involved in the production of a prospectus it was definitely a challenge for me, but a learning experience as it went on. Can’t help but feel proud seeing the final publication. 

Clearing is also rapidly approaching and all hands on deck is the expression that’s probably most suitable.  It is an interesting time of the year where nothing is certain as to what the results of our efforts may be. Nonetheless, we push on with our creative juices flowing, ready to tackle anything that comes our way.

After all that’s what Marketing is about!

Meet the Marketing Team

By Sarah Hampton, Marketing Manager

Hi everyone! For all of you that don’t yet know me, I’m the Interim Marketing Manager within the central Marketing team. For our first blog post I thought it would be a good idea to tell you a little bit about what we do, and what you can expect to read on this blog.

But first things first, let’s introduce you to the team:

The Marketing Team:  Beverley Hoare, Sarah Hampton,
Michelle Ramsumair, Lauren Hague and Rehanna Khan.

Beverley Hoare – Deputy Director of Marketing

Beverley manages the Marketing, Digital Marketing, Telemarketing and Market Research teams and functions at the University of Bedfordshire. She’s responsible for strategic marketing planning, management of market research to inform strategic planning and management of through the line campaigns. And, she also oversees all aspects of brand management and development.

Sarah Hampton – Marketing Manager

I’ve been part of the Marketing team for six years now and am indeed a prospectus veteran, having clocked up more than 12 during my time here to date, soon to be 13 (watch this space for more information on this).  You’ll mostly find me lurking in our fabulous new Postgraduate Centre for a meeting and a hot chocolate, devising our marketing plans, and doing some serious number crunching at my desk to evaluate all of our activity.

Rehanna Khan – Marketing Assistant

Rehanna joined the team back in 2009 and is our current resident expert in all things undergraduate; focusing on a wide range of important activities from open events and conversion activities, to publications, photo shoots and profiling.

New Postgraduate website launched
earlier this year

Lauren Hague – Marketing Assistant

Lauren joined the University in 2011 and at the time of writing this blog post, is half way around the world on a holiday of a lifetime, as she backpacks her way around central America. Since joining the team, Lauren has been working on our Postgraduate campaigns and has even re-launched a brand-new Postgraduate website 

Michelle Ramsumair – Marketing Administrator

Michelle joined our Marketing team in 2011. Prior to this, she worked with us for many years as an intern whilst completing her undergraduate studies at Bedfordshire. She’s a team member with many talents, having worked on our on-campus branding and signage, media buying, and most recently a bespoke publication to launch our new Milton Keynes campus (more on this later this week).

So that’s who we are, but what exactly do we do I hear you say. Well that’s the purpose of this very blog. Every day in the Marketing team is different as there’s so many projects going on, all with one main goal: to provide a first-class service to our potential students, and staff members.

So be sure to keep checking back here regularly to read about our awards and achievements (a great nod to best practice), as well as some key projects that we’re introducing to benefit individual courses and departments, as well as the University as a whole. And, if you like what you see and want to know more, be sure to get in touch, we’re just a hop, skip and a jump away from another meeting with the promise of hot chocolate! J