How do I recruit student ambassadors?

Recruitment is the foundation of a strong ambassador programme. By planning ahead, creating inclusive opportunities, and assessing applicants carefully, you can build a diverse team of students (and alumni, or parents for schools) who represent your institution authentically to prospective students.

 

Recruitment typically involves four stages:

  1. Planning your ambassador roles

  2. Writing a job description

  3. Advertising vacancies

  4. Assessing and selecting ambassadors


1. Planning your ambassador roles

Start by defining what you want ambassadors to do. Their role goes beyond answering prospect questions. Ambassadors can:

  • Chat with prospective students on TAP to share authentic, peer-to-peer insights

  • Create content (photos, videos, FAQs) that showcases life at your institution

  • Support online events such as virtual open days, Q&A panels, subject tasters etc, then continue conversations online afterwards

A clear role definition helps set expectations for both your team and applicants.

👉 Learn more: How do I write an ambassador job description?


2. Writing a job description

A clear job description helps candidates understand what’s expected. You might include:

  • Using the TAP app to chat with prospects and create content

  • Having an ambassador profile published on your institution’s website

  • Approximate hours and any pay or incentives (if applicable)

  • The value of diversity in your team (nationalities, study levels, subject areas)

👉 Use our ambassador job description template to save time.


3. Advertising vacancies

Once you know what you’re looking for, promote your opportunities widely. Common channels include:

  • Student newsletters and email campaigns

  • Social media groups or pages

  • Freshers’ Fairs or orientation events (particularly effective for new students)

  • Job boards or internal student portals

  • Recommendations from staff who know potential candidates

👉 Resource: How do I use a flyer to recruit ambassadors?


4. Assessing and selecting ambassadors

Finally, assess your applicants to choose ambassadors who are enthusiastic, approachable, and representative of your student community. You might:

  • Hold relaxed interviews (in person, via Zoom, or by phone)

  • Ask questions such as:

    • Why have you applied to be an ambassador?

    • What do you think the role involves?

    • What skills or experience will help you succeed?

  • Include a short content task, e.g.:

    • A photo of their favourite place on campus with a caption

    • A short video explaining why they want to be an ambassador

    • A video sharing what they would tell a prospect about life at your institution

This process also helps applicants decide if the role is right for them, while reinforcing the importance of both chat and content creation.


Key things to keep in mind

  • Plan roles clearly so applicants understand expectations.

  • Recruit a diverse team that reflects the nationalities, study levels, and study areas you most want to attract.

  • Make the process accessible and inclusive.

  • Highlight transferable skills and career benefits for ambassadors.