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:
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Planning your ambassador roles
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Writing a job description
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Advertising vacancies
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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:
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Chat with prospective students on TAP to share authentic, peer-to-peer insights
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Create content (photos, videos, FAQs) that showcases life at your institution
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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:
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Using the TAP app to chat with prospects and create content
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Having an ambassador profile published on your institution’s website
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Approximate hours and any pay or incentives (if applicable)
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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:
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Student newsletters and email campaigns
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Social media groups or pages
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Freshers’ Fairs or orientation events (particularly effective for new students)
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Job boards or internal student portals
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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:
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Hold relaxed interviews (in person, via Zoom, or by phone)
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Ask questions such as:
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Why have you applied to be an ambassador?
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What do you think the role involves?
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What skills or experience will help you succeed?
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Include a short content task, e.g.:
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A photo of their favourite place on campus with a caption
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A short video explaining why they want to be an ambassador
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A video sharing what they would tell a prospect about life at your institution
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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
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Plan roles clearly so applicants understand expectations.
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Recruit a diverse team that reflects the nationalities, study levels, and study areas you most want to attract.
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Make the process accessible and inclusive.
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Highlight transferable skills and career benefits for ambassadors.