This summer series of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is proudly sponsored by NextGrad.

NextGrad helps colleges and universities reach students where they already are, inside the high school itself. With a network of over 2,500 schools across North America, NextGrad puts your institution's message in front of future students every single day. Be the school they remember when it's time to decide.

NextGrad.com — Where students see you first.

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As technology continues to transform how students search for colleges, trust has become higher education's greatest competitive advantage. Derek Riordan, Digital Marketing Strategist at Southeast Missouri State University, shares how institutions can build authentic brand influence through strategic storytelling, AI-ready content, and meaningful student experiences that earn confidence long before application season.

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🎧 What We Cover in This Episode

🔘Why trust is becoming the foundation of higher education marketing

🔘How early brand influence shapes enrollment decisions years before students apply

🔘The growing role of AI, SEO, and Answer Engine Optimization in college search

🔘Why storytelling and student outcomes must work together to strengthen enrollment marketing

🔘Practical strategies for creating authentic campaigns that resonate with students, parents, and AI search tools

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🎙️ Episode Highlights

01:10 Why universities must build trust in an AI-driven enrollment environment

11:32 How SEMO is preparing for AI search with SEO-focused content and blogs

13:55 Creating highly specific content that matches how students search with AI

15:20 Using AI as a productivity tool without sacrificing authentic human connection

25:38 Why authentic student experiences must match institutional marketing promises

27:21 Derek's advice for enrollment marketers, build brand awareness early and create integrated campaigns

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The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast is powered by Caylor Solutions—your go-to partner for higher ed mission-fit marketing strategies, enrollment, AI expertise, and branding needs. 

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