Know-How Exchange : Other

Dear Abblaz88,

I take it your community is an online community. To hook students you must convince them that what you have is worthy of their consideration. Worthy of their time. And that regardless of what they might think, that the reality is that young people DO need health and wellness training and advice.

You must make them believe they are not invincible. They are not bullet proof. That they are not impregnable. Most young people think health and wellness is theirs by right. And who can blame them?

So consider teaming up with people that know otherwise: emergency room doctors, PAs, nurses, neurosurgeons and the like.

Shock tactics can often work in cases like this. Real people who have suffered or who have overcome incredible odds and rebuilt their health and who have reclaimed their wellness.

It might sound clichéd, but it can have impressive results if it's managed well, and if it's directed with sensitivity toward the right niche groups within the student world.

Another point to consider is sex, physical prowess, and perception in the workplace. Get in (and remain in) shape and gain a foothold on the other person for that cute potential date.

Drop the weight and get a better job.

I've seen film of someone wearing a "fat suit" and the reactions they got in everyday situations. With the same person going back into the same situation the following day without the fat suit and getting a totally different reaction.

Likewise the Men's Health topic of "Eat This, Not That!". Before and after images of the effects of alcohol and drugs over a sustained period. Likewise the effects of smoking on breathing and skin aging. Ditto for sun damage and its aging effects on skin.

Perception here is incredibly influential. Make use of it. And finally, Oscar Wilde was right, because when we squander our health and abuse our wellness, youth becomes wasted on the young.

I hope this helps.

Gary Bloomer
Wilmington, DE, USA

Also consider the cost/benefit ratio for the students (and their families). What other choices do they have for: regular care, urgent care, emergency care, and preventative care? Why would they choose your offering instead of the other choices?

You could try to hook them on cost. How can your community help them save money on health care?

Elizabeth