From Vanity Metrics to Real Results: Rethinking Higher Ed Marketing

From Vanity Metrics to Real Results: Rethinking Higher Ed Marketing

In this eye-opening episode of The Enrollment Clinic, we sit down with Robert Kadar, Senior Director of Marketing at Yeshiva University, to challenge one of higher ed’s most sacred cows: the lead form. Robert reveals the data behind why 85–90% of enrolled students never filled one out — and why most universities are optimizing their digital marketing for the wrong audience. We unpack: * The fatal flaw in most higher ed ad strategies * Why your lead gen obsession may be costing you quality applications * The shift from form-filling to intent-tracking * The overlooked power of audience targeting and landing page design * How to talk to your leadership team about ditching vanity metrics If you’re in enrollment marketing, admissions, or digital strategy, this is a must-listen episode—time to stop chasing ghosts — and start optimizing for the students who actually enroll.

Beyond Rankings: How Manaferra Is Redefining Higher Ed SEO

In this episode of The Enrollment Clinic, host Gjergj Dollani sits down with Faton Sopa and Granit Doshklaku, the founders of Manaferra—an award-winning digital agency laser-focused on SEO for higher education. Recorded in Manaferra’s offices in Kosovo, this conversation explores why most universities misunderstand SEO, how organic search outperforms paid ads in student recruitment, and what an omnichannel SEO strategy actually looks like. The episode also dives into: * Why higher ed institutions are obsessed with PPC—and why that's a problem * The rise of platforms like Reddit and ChatGPT in the student decision-making journey * How universities can build trust through content that actually resonates * What makes Manaferra different from full-service agencies * How AI and SEO intersect (and what not to automate) Whether you're an enrollment leader, digital marketer, or higher ed strategist, this episode delivers actionable insights on building a sustainable, high-converting digital presence—without burning through ad budgets.

Higher Ed Leadership, Accreditation, and the Future of Education with Dr. Linda Robertson

In this episode of The Enrollment Clinic, I sit down with Dr. Linda Robertson, a seasoned higher education leader and former director at Kent State University, to discuss the evolving landscape of higher ed leadership. We explore key topics such as accreditation, institutional transformation, and the challenges facing universities today. Drawing from her book, Bullshit with Cream on It, Dr. Robertson shares how leadership lessons from her Wyoming ranch upbringing shaped her approach to guiding universities through accreditation, faculty engagement, and strategic decision-making. We also tackle the future of higher education: What must institutions do to remain relevant in the age of AI and rapid technological change? How can universities shift from reactive to proactive leadership? And what’s missing in today’s conversations about education reform? If you’re involved in university administration, enrollment management, or higher ed strategy, this episode is packed with insights to help navigate the shifting terrain of higher education.

Higher Ed SEO & Digital Strategy: What Universities Get Wrong (and How to Fix It) with Paula French

Higher education marketing is evolving, and universities that fail tooptimize for SEO are missing out on thousands of potential students. In this episode ofThe Enrollment Clinic, I sit down withPaula French, Director of Sales and Marketing atSearch Influence, to break down howsearch engine optimization (SEO) can drive enrollment growth for universities. We cover: ✅Why 51% of universities lack an SEO strategy (despite 84% of leaders saying it's crucial) ✅The biggest SEO mistakes in higher education and how to fix them ✅How prospective students search for online and adult learning programs ✅Google, AI, and the future of university search marketing ✅The role of SEO in university enrollment strategy If you’re involved inhigher ed marketing, admissions, or enrollment management, this episode is packed withactionable SEO strategies to help youincrease visibility, boost applications, and optimize digital recruitment.

Aviation Education Reimagined: Alexandre Alves on Pilot Training & Higher Ed Partnerships

In this insightful episode of The Enrollment Clinic, Alexandre Alves, COO of Airways Aviation Group, explores the dynamic intersection of higher education and aviation training. Learn how Airways Aviation combines global reach (15+ countries) with innovative programs integrating pilot training, EASA licensing, and partnerships with universities like Montpellier Business School. Key highlights include: * The rising demand for aviation professionals. * Integrating non-technical and managerial skills into training. * The role of AI and sustainability in aviation's future. * Strategies for balancing B2B airline partnerships with individual learners. Dive into the future of aviation and higher education! This expanded description highlights themes relevant to higher education while incorporating SEO-friendly keywords like "aviation education," "EASA licensing," "higher ed partnerships," and "AI in education."