Promoting the Camp USA Program
Recruitment strategies could include any of the following:
- Online or paper-based advertisements
- Information sessions and presentations
- Exhibits at fairs and conferences
- Visits to colleges and universities
- Former participant referrals
- All recruitment materials and advertising must portray the program accurately. Misrepresentation of the program in recruitment materials may result in the termination of the partnership by InterExchange.
Once candidates express interest in the program, you will be the liaison between InterExchange and these candidates, who will work with you directly to ask questions about the program, confirm their eligibility, and inquire about fees.
How to Promote the Program
Advertising the Camp Counselor Cultural Exchange program involves strategic outreach, clear communication, and expectation setting. This program is not for everyone, and that’s okay!
You are responsible for all costs of promoting the program and recruiting applicants in the countries where you operate. Feel free to use materials from our IC Resources . ( Sample Host Camps , Camp USA Program Overview for Participants ).
- Create a Dedicated Website or Landing Page: Provide detailed information about the Camp USA program, application process, eligibility, benefits, and testimonials.
- Highlight Unique Benefits of the Camp USA Program: Emphasize the cultural exchange aspect, personal development, leadership skills, and fun summer camp experiences.
- Use Engaging Visuals: Share photos and videos of previous camps, activities, and happy counselors to showcase the environment.
- Share Testimonials: Include stories from past participants about their transformative experiences and the cultural learning they gained.
- Target Relevant Platforms: Promote on social media channels popular among young adults, such as Instagram and TikTok.
- Engage Influencers: Partner with bloggers and social media influencers who focus on travel, education, and youth culture to promote the program.
- Partner with International Youth Organizations: Collaborate with organizations that work with young adults interested in travel, cultural exchange, or working abroad.
- Create a Clear Call-to-Action: Provide easy-to-follow application links, deadlines, and contact info.
- Attend International Educational and youth fairs to engage directly with potential participants. Partner with high schools, colleges, and language schools to distribute flyers, hold info sessions or give presentations.
- Leverage Email and Messaging Campaigns: Send targeted emails emphasizing the adventure, cultural immersion, and skills gained.
- Collaborate with Language Schools and Travel Agencies: These organizations can help promote the program to their students and clients.
- Use Digital Advertising: Invest in targeted ads on social media and Google to reach specific demographics interested in “camp usa” or “camp america”.
- Offer incentives such as early bird discounts, referral rewards, or informational webinars to encourage sign-ups.
Follow up with interested applicants!
Once you have received and responded to an inquiry, you will need to do some follow-up work.
Have a system in place for pre-screening applicants to ensure they are eligible to apply.
Invite leads to start an application in the online system. Once applications are invited to start an application, they will be enrolled in nudge campaigns from InterExchange to help encourage them to finish their applications.
When applicants first start an application, they are not required to upload any supplemental documents. Consider calling and emailing the applicant a week or so later, and keep an eye on the application statuses. If they have been in the “Not Submitted” status for over a week, get in touch to see if they are still interested or have any questions.
If they have submitted the written portion of their application, their status will be “Cooperator Review,” which means it’s time for you to take action! Ensure that you contact the applicant for an interview if you believe they are a suitable candidate and explain which documents they need to upload to complete their application. If you have a large number of inquiries for personal phone calls, consider sending a group email to remind applicants of the deadlines. Or, try doing something creative! Consider sending out a newsletter with program information and updates, or try posting messages and links to your website and social media accounts.
Where to Find Potential Applicants
Network with some of the following places or groups to find qualified staff:
- Courses for teachers, physical education staff, social workers, and special needs programs
- Universities where youth work and/or child development is the primary focus
- University or college career centers
- Churches, synagogues, and temples
- Organizations, associations, and university clubs
- Social networking sites
Past participants can also be a great resource to assist you with leading information sessions about the program at their local university. We often receive inquiries from interested applicants through our website, and we will forward your contact information to them via email. Don’t expect them to get in touch with you without encouragement. Email them immediately and let them know that you are their designated contact person in your country. Ensure that you provide accurate program information and materials that clearly outline the program’s activities, terms, and conditions.