Grab That Grad!
There they go, marching down the aisle to “Pomp and Circumstance”. Quick, grab ‘em!
Well, no, don’t actually grab them. That would be weird and disruptive and potentially harmful.
In the months leading up to graduation, young folks are preparing for some major life changes – first job, college, grad school – and choosing the right financial institution can be a big part of all of those changes. Better that you reach out to graduates now than try and entice them to come back and give you a try. With so many other changes to be made, changing banks can be a big deal for a new grad, and one that benefits them and you. Here are some thoughts on getting their attention:
- Offer college-bound grads an “off to college” pack, including a folding laundry hamper, a nylon string backpack (for gym visits), a first-aid kit, some laundry detergent, a set of shower sandals…the list goes on, but one thing that should be included is a starter credit card or student checking account. If you go with the checking account, talk about some possible benefits and, if you’re part of a shared branching network, talk to that grad about ways to withdraw cash without penalties and get money when they need it.
- Offer workforce-bound grads a choice of “office pack” or “outdoor pack”. Office-bound grads could benefit from aspirin, mouthwash (for those after-lunch business meetings), a small sewing kit (for rips and missing buttons), some computer screen cleaner, a pack of paper and pens, some instant stain remover pens, and maybe a soft lunchbox with your branding on it? For the grads who will be working outside, consider a hard lunchbox with a thermos, sunscreen (skin care matters!), hats, hand sanitizer, and a car care kit complete with: dashboard cleaning wipes, air fresheners, a tire pressure gauge, and key-chain. In both cases, talk to these work-bound grads about affordable auto loans, home ownership goals and retirement saving.