Best practices

Boost Engagement by Balancing Communication: Institutional and Personal

Users: Training Providers (Public), Training Providers (Private), Communication officers, Micro-credential coordinators, Universities, SMEs | Theme: Education and Digital Skills, Communication and Engagement |

Action: Awareness Raising | Beneficiaries: Students, Professionals, CEOs, SMEs

DIS4SME

DIS4SME

Mayte Toscano – DIS4SME project-OGC

In European training initiatives such as DIS4SME, communication usually takes place through institutional channels (partners’ websites, European platforms, newsletters or events). Although these channels provide credibility and visibility, they often fail to establish a direct connection with the professionals or businesses that could benefit from the courses. To boost participation, DIS4SME proposes that this institutional outreach be complemented by a more personal and human approach to communication, using student testimonials, company stories, short videos and real-life experiences shared on social media and at events. This approach will help demonstrate the real impact of the training and make the message more accessible to SMEs and professionals.

The challenge?

Recruitment campaigns may seem impersonal or overly institutional, reducing emotional connection.

Our solution

Combine institutional credibility with personal stories and real-life examples. Use participant testimonials, SME success stories, short interviews or brief videos that explain how the training has helped solve real-world problems in the workplace. Incorporate this content into social media, events and promotional materials to complement institutional communications.

Outcomes

+60%

Increase in social-media reach

+35%

Engagement rate on storytelling posts

+15%

Conversion of followers into enrolments.

Key takeaways

Authentic and human stories inspire more than data — trust grows through personal identification.