Building Your Brand and Marketing Strategy on Outschool: Insights and Actionable Tips

At Outschool, educators have the unique opportunity to build a thriving teaching business while connecting with learners worldwide. This guide explores key components of branding, marketing, and practical steps to elevate your classes’ visibility and appeal on the platform.

Focus on Your Business: Branding and Marketing Goals

In contrast to product updates covered in Stay Ahead of the Game sessions, this guide shifts the focus to your business. Our goal is to equip you with tools to define your brand, connect with your audience, and grow your offerings.

What is a Brand?

Your brand is more than your name or logo—it’s the experience learners and families associate with you. It includes:

1. Definition: Your purpose, values, and promises to families. Ask yourself:
   • What unique value do I offer?
   • What outcomes can learners and families expect?
2. Experience: The in-class environment you create. Ensure your teaching style reflects the promises in your profile and listings.
3. Customer Service: Communicate professionally and consistently to build rapport. Clear, thoughtful communication is key to retaining families.
4. Identity: This includes your name, visuals (logos, fonts, colors), and tone. Consistency across your profile, class listings, and communications enhances trust and recognition.

Identifying Your Target Audience

Knowing your audience is essential for tailoring your classes and marketing efforts. Consider:

1. Demographics:
   • Age and location of learners
   • Schooling preferences (e.g., homeschoolers or supplemental learning for traditional students)
2. Psychographics:
   • Interests, values, and pain points of families
   • Educational goals or challenges (e.g., addressing math fears or offering advanced STEM topics)
3. Behavior:
   • How do families find and select classes?
   • What emotional or logical factors influence their decisions?
4. Buyer Persona:
   • Create a detailed description of your ideal customer to guide your messaging and course creation.

Practical Marketing Tips

1. Optimize Class Listings and Profiles:
   • Use concise, engaging language.
   • Include a professional profile photo and consider adding a high-quality video introduction.
   • Ensure your availability aligns with peak booking times and matches your audience’s preferences.
2. Leverage Emotional Logic:
   • Highlight how your classes solve problems or fulfill educational goals.
   • Showcase your passion and expertise to build trust.
3. Utilize Multi-Sensory Communication:
   • Combine written updates with video or audio messages for richer engagement.
   • Consider tools like Loom to create quick video updates for families.

The Power of Class Videos

Classes with videos experience a 40% higher conversion rate. To make your videos stand out:

• Keep them short (1-2 minutes).
• Start with an engaging hook.
• Highlight your unique teaching style and relevant qualifications.
• Use high-quality visuals and audio to enhance professionalism.

Building Visibility on the Platform

Maximize your class reach with these strategies:

• Class Listings: Professional, clear, and engaging descriptions are essential.
• Search Optimization: Add class videos to boost visibility in search results, especially for one-on-one tutoring sessions.
• Parent Feedback: Use testimonials to showcase your class value.

Challenge for June: Revamp Your Profile

This month, take time to refine your teacher profile:

• Showcase what makes your classes unique.
• Ensure your photo is approachable and professional.
• Use clear, concise text to highlight your experience and teaching style.
• Add or update your profile video to connect with families.

Recommended Reading: Unreasonable Hospitality

This inspiring book emphasizes turning ordinary transactions into extraordinary experiences. Apply its principles to your classes by:

• Creating memorable learning experiences.
• Prioritizing exceptional customer service.
• Building loyalty and excitement among learners and families.

Final Thoughts

Your brand is the cornerstone of your Outschool business. By refining your messaging, improving visibility, and focusing on creating exceptional experiences, you can attract and retain learners while achieving your business goals.

What’s your next step? Dive into your profile, reflect on your audience, and implement these tips to make a lasting impression on Outschool families. For more insights and resources, visit the Educator Library or join the Facebook Teacher Hub.