Insights

FAQs

• Q: How is Frankel different from other higher ed agencies?

  A: We offer the same level of strategic expertise but with a more flexible model, personalized senior-level attention, and better value. We don't plug you into a pre-built process. We build a plan that works for your institution.

• Q: What services do you offer?

  A: Frankel is a full-service agency. We provide enrollment marketing, branding and identity development, rankings and reputation strategy, media planning and buying, qualitative and quantitative research, creative execution, and more. All under one roof.

• Q: Can you work with both large public universities and smaller private colleges?

  A: Yes. We’ve worked with two-year, four-year, public, and private institutions across the country, from flagship universities to regional liberal arts colleges.

• Q: How do you measure success?

  A: We define success in your terms, whether that’s enrollment lift, improved reputation scores, media ROI, or internal brand alignment. We pair KPIs with custom dashboards and real-time reporting.

• Q: How do you approach branding for universities with multiple internal audiences?

  A: We’re experts at managing complex stakeholder environments. Through research, message testing, and facilitated workshops, we build brand platforms that align internal teams and resonate externally.

• Q: Do you handle media buying in-house?

  A: Yes. Our in-house media team plans and executes campaigns across digital, social, streaming, and traditional channels. No middlemen. No markup surprises.

• Q: Do you have experience with graduate program recruitment?

  A: Absolutely. We’ve helped a wide range of institutions increase graduate enrollment through full-funnel strategies, from audience segmentation and list acquisition to yield communications.

• Q: What’s your pricing model?

  A: We offer both retainer and project-based pricing, depending on your needs. Our rate structure is transparent, and we never charge for fluff or overhead.

• Q: How do you onboard new higher ed clients?

  A: We start with discovery — reviewing past efforts, goals, audiences, and internal challenges. From there, we co-build a roadmap aligned with your objectives. Our onboarding process is structured but flexible, designed to build momentum fast without overwhelming your team.

• Q: How long do your branding or enrollment campaigns typically take?

  A: Timelines vary by scope, but brand platforms typically take 12–16 weeks from kickoff to launch, while enrollment campaigns often move faster, with media live in as little as 6–8 weeks. We move quickly, but never at the expense of quality or collaboration.

• Q: Can you support multiple departments or units across campus?

  A: Yes. Whether it’s admissions, advancement, graduate programs, or strategic communications, we’re built to serve cross-functional needs. We can work through a centralized model or directly with individual departments as an extension of your team.

• Q: Do you have experience working with state systems or RFP-driven institutions?

  A: We do. Frankel regularly works within the structure and requirements of state systems, including responding to RFPs and working with procurement. We understand the balance between centralized mandates and campus-specific goals.

• Q: What if we already have an in-house marketing team?

  A: Perfect. We often partner with internal teams to extend their capacity, bring outside perspective, or provide specialized expertise, from campaign execution to research and strategy. We’re not here to replace anyone; we’re here to make you stronger.

• Q: What happens after a campaign launches?

  A: Launch is just the beginning. We actively monitor performance, optimize based on real-time data, and provide clear reporting tied to your goals. You’ll always know what’s working, what we’re adjusting, and how it’s tracking toward your outcomes.

• Q: Can you help improve our national rankings and reputation?

  A: Yes. We've developed campaigns and content strategies that influence rankings factors — from peer perception to brand visibility. Our approach includes thought leadership, influencer engagement, media targeting, and consistent reputation storytelling.

• Q: Do you offer student or alumni research?

  A: Yes. We conduct both qualitative and quantitative research with current students, prospective students, alumni, and peer audiences. It’s a core part of how we inform brand development, test messages, and identify growth opportunities.

• Q: Can you help us align brand and enrollment goals?

  A: Absolutely. We believe brand and enrollment are deeply connected, and we structure our strategies to drive both. Whether you're launching a new program, refreshing your identity, or trying to convert more inquiries, we ensure the brand story supports conversion.

• Q: Do you work with two-year, community, or technical colleges?

  A: Yes. We have deep experience partnering with two-year and technical institutions to strengthen enrollment, build community trust, and highlight workforce outcomes. We understand the unique pressures these colleges face, from shifting demographics to evolving perceptions, and tailor our strategies to meet students where they are with clear, compelling messaging.