One of the biggest challenges in alumni relations is engaging young alumni, often defined as GOLD or graduates of the last decade. The new generation requires a new approach to communications and programming, Engaging millennial alumni requires understanding their preferences, values, and communication habits. Here are some “hacks” or strategies that can help you engage millennial alumni:

• Use Social Media Strategically: Leverage platforms like Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn to share visually appealing and relevant content. Use stories, polls, and interactive features to encourage engagement.
• Create Authentic Content: Millennials value authenticity as much as anyone. Share real stories of alumni achievements and experiences. User-generated content can also make them feel more connected.
• Focus on Career Development: Offer webinars, workshops, and resources that help millennial alumni navigate their careers. Topics like personal branding, networking, and industry insights can be attractive.
• Leverage Technology: Utilize online mentoring platforms, virtual meet-ups, and webinars to provide convenient ways for millennial alumni to connect and learn.
• Highlight Social Impact: Showcase your institution’s commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. Millennials often resonate with causes and initiatives that align with their values.
• Provide Networking Opportunities: Organize events that focus on both professional networking and social interaction. Millennials appreciate opportunities to expand their professional circles.
• Foster Community: Create online spaces or groups where millennial alumni can connect, share experiences, and seek advice from their peers.
• User-Centric Engagement: Seek input from millennial alumni on the types of events, content, and activities they would find valuable. This involvement can foster a sense of ownership as well as more popular events.
• Mobile-Friendly Communications: Ensure that your engagement efforts are mobile-responsive, as millennials often prefer accessing content and interacting on their smartphones.
• Gamification: Incorporate gamified elements into engagement initiatives, such as challenges, competitions, or reward systems. This can make engagement more fun and interactive.

Remember that millennial preferences may vary, so it’s important to gather feedback and monitor engagement metrics to continually refine your approach. By tailoring your strategies to their needs and interests, you can foster a strong and lasting connection with millennial alumni.

Up next: eight more helpful hacks!

Read more articles in the Alumni Relations Transformations Series at AlmaShines or the Impactrics Resources area.