Brand Updates

University advancement sub-brand finds its voice

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With the launch of the university advancement sub-brand, special focus is given to messaging to ensure maximum readability when writing for alumni, donor and friends of Missouri State.

Below are some of the best practices being executed in the development of sub-brand text to boost comprehension, retention and action.

Contributed by Michelle Rose

Shorter is better

  • Shorter paragraphs
    • One to three sentences. Three is max. 25 words max for lead, i.e., first paragraph.
  • Shorter sentences
    • Eight words is perfect sentence length; occasionally longer is OK; 21 words should be max
  • Shorter words
    • Goal is five characters; one syllable or two is ideal

Be visual

  • Use large images
  • Break up text with infographics/numbers/timelines

Ellis Hall

More entry points

  • In text longer than 250 words, ensure there is at least one overall headline, and a minimum of two subheads
  • Create infographics
    • If something is a number, date, fact, timeline, etc., pop it out in a large box rather than keep it in paragraph or narrative-style text
  • Use more “chunks” of information
    • For fact-based stories that don’t have a natural story arc (nonprofiles, nonnarratives), break out each “thought” or thesis into its own chunk, complete with a mini headline or subhead
  • Break out all calls to action

Flex voice to connect with readers

  • Ask more questions (How will you inspire others? Etc.)
  • Be personal by using more us/you/we language (i.e., not “The university will endeavor to accomplish the goals” but “we will reach our goals.”)
  • Don’t use passive sentences
  • Focus on MSU pride and more use of the words from the overall university branding campaign

Let’s get personal

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VDP example

With a little planning and a lot of data, you can reach your target audience with specialized messaging through variable data printing.

Missouri State is reaching out to prospective students through personalized messaging that provides information that is relevant and timely.

Working in partnership with the publications office and printing services, the admissions office reaches high school students throughout the semester, with targeted publications. Each print piece is complimented by digital campaigns and student calling efforts.

 

 

New series showcases what it’s like to be a Business Bear

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COB brochure series

The College of Business recently published a series of six department brochures, along with a college brochure, in support of its undergraduate student recruitment efforts.

Through the print pieces, prospective students learn how an education at Missouri State is different – and how they will learn to do business with integrity.

Business majors tell their Citizen Bear stories as only students can – sharing their experiences of incorporating public affairs into their academic prep.

Also included are the benefits and outcomes of earning a business degree at Missouri State.

We’re excited to share this example of brand support.

Inspiration: Missouri State Career Center Facebook post

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In this series of posts we celebrate examples of creative and engaging branding within the university community. We highlight these to inspire you in your branding efforts!

Who caught our attention

Missouri State Career Center’s Facebook post.

Why it captures the brand 

The Career Center uses several effective visual elements to convey its message.

  • The Career Center used deconstructed frames, recommended under the branding guidelines. These convey a sense of motion, like turning a page or taking a step toward opportunities.
  • It uses the recommended primary brand color of maroon for a consistent, Missouri State-focused message.
  • It includes appropriate imagery with its use of statement photography. This is done to capture the pulse of the university. In this example students are preparing to use their degree to find a teaching job at the local, regional and national level.

How it meets the Career Center’s goals 

These brand elements help the Career Center demonstrate preparation for an education fair, which gives students the opportunity to find employment after graduation.

Reaching prospective students: Know your audience’s needs

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Gain inspiration from these publications that embrace the visual identity and brand messaging. For additional information or for assistance in developing brand materials, contact the publications office.

Recruiting graduate students

Graduate students are focused. Focused on programs, mentors, outcomes and cost. These factors are at the forefront of recruitment materials that prospective students receive when they begin researching Missouri State’s graduate offerings. This publication is hand-distributed, with opportunity for students to visit with MSU professionals. The call to action is to apply to the Graduate College.

Students who accept invitation to the Honors College experience smaller class sizes, engaging course work and special library privileges

An invitation to the Honors College

High ability students who are accepted to Missouri State receive an invitation to the Honors College. The invitation outlines the benefits students receive in the Honors College, such as smaller class sizes, engaging course work and special library privileges. The call to action is to complete the Honors College response form and apply for Missouri State’s most prestigious scholarships.

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Inspiring future teachers

One in eight teachers in Missouri are a graduate of Missouri State. This is one of many informational graphics used by the College of Education to convey beneficial information to prospective future teachers. This brochure outlines the offerings of the college, while promoting the teaching profession. Students are invited through the publication to tour, request additional information and apply.

hospitality

Leading in hospitality

Job placement rates, starting salaries and elite accreditation are forefront in the information prospective students learn about the hospitality leadership department. Students are invited through the publication to tour, request additional information and apply.