Reaching college students isn’t the biggest problem as social media is relatively inexpensive compared to out of home media like billboards. However, with all types of advertisers fighting for banner space on their browsers and a sliver of their newsfeed the real issue is how to gain and retaintheir attention.

To start off, it is important to keep the content short but engaging. This makes it hard to ignore and easier to remember. It is very is easy to skip or dismiss ads today which is why it is important that the ad doesn’t feel dragged out or a chance to leave your computer for the one minute task you’ve been putting off.

The content itself should play with their curiosity a little. The most relevant ads/videos that are shared online are those that boost some sort of extremely happy, feel good or sympathy evoking emotion. This also makes it compelling for viewers to comment on these shares.

Advertise to college students where they spend their time. It is possible to target students via their newsfeed in Facebook. Additionally online ads can drive students to a company Twitter page. A good example of this is Uber’s use of Uber facts on Twitter. Instead of just posting information about Uber ( an app based taxi alternative) which can be limiting and repetitive in terms of content it engages followers to share, comment and discuss ‘’Uberfacts’’ with their friends. This subconsciously forms a strong association with the brand. Moreover, it is important to stay up on emerging and now relevant social networks like Snapchat and Instagram.

In conclusion, social marketing to college/high-school students getting easier each year. Remember to keeping it simple and smart will go a long way.