Let’s discuss one of the most significant hidden leaks in school marketing and admissions. Slow replies.
Not dramatic. Not glamorous. But absolutely costing you enquiries.
Here’s the truth: you have a 15-minute window before a shiny new enquiry cools off.
Fifteen.
Minutes.
Parents today are fast. They make decisions quickly. They expect clarity instantly.
And if they don’t hear from you? They simply move on to the next school that does reply.
But the good news? Closing this gap is one of the easiest, highest-impact fixes you can make.
Let’s break it down.
1. Light up your inbox like fireworks
Set a rule that flags new enquiries the second they land.
Red, flashing, neon, whatever makes your brain go “ACT NOW”.
Because you can’t respond quickly if you don’t know something has arrived.
2. Use a saved reply that’s warm, human and smart
Parents don’t need an essay. They just need to know you’re there.
Your template only needs three things:
- A friendly thank you.
- One stand-out proof point that builds trust.
- A clear Call To Action, ideally a direct link to book a visit.
Boom.
Fast, but meaningful.
3. Off the clock? Don’t leave them hanging
If an enquiry lands at 9.37pm, don’t panic.
Use an auto-reply that:
- Thanks them
- Reassures them
- Promises a call at 9am
Then (and this bit matters) ACTUALLY CALL AT 9AM.
Reliability builds confidence instantly.
4. Why this works so well
You’re not just replying quickly.
You’re capturing the moment when they’re most excited about your school. That’s the magic moment. The golden window.
And while you’re deciding whether to reply now or after breaktime, another school has already emailed them back.
Speed isn’t about being frantic. It’s about being ready.
Prepared beats perfect, every single time.
The takeaway
A flagged inbox.
A saved reply.
One quick action.
Small changes, huge impact.
Get in touch to discuss more ways you can improve your school’s marketing & admissions.