Content that works, strategy that stands
The Smart Course: From just posting to growing strategically
In five editions, The Smart Course has become the place where entrepreneurs take their social media strategy to the next level. Because anyone can create content, but content that really sticks requires knowledge, purpose and authenticity.
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Being visible is one thing, sticking around is the real deal
A course full of inspiration, practical examples, homework assignments, smart questions, new insights and lots and lots of content. The Smart Course, an initiative of AlienTrick and Stichting Centrummanagement Hengelo, has firmly established itself in the entrepreneurial landscape of Twente and beyond. Participants have long since moved beyond the Hengelo city center. During edition five in March 2025 we saw familiar faces as well as new ones.
That this course is so alive is not surprising. Everyone is creating content these days. But not everyone does it well. And certainly not strategically. That's why we help entrepreneurs with a clear, practical and personal course that enables them to sustainably strengthen their online presence. Because yes, creating content is easy. But creating content that really sticks? That requires more. You need to know where your target group is and what really touches them, something you can't get from a book. With that knowledge, you can make maximum impact with minimal effort. Entrepreneurs who stand out are those who have a clear strategy.
Strategy as a starting point
Who are you, where are you and where do you want to go?
Every edition we kick off with an introduction. Not only with us, Raymond, Laureth and (during the film session) Dennis, but also with each other. We take the time to hear what concerns entrepreneurs. What is already working well? Where do doubts or frustrations lie? We use this input to fine-tune each subsequent session. In this way, The Smart Course is more and more attuned to your questions, challenges and goals.
The first session focuses on strategy. Who do you want to be in the world of your target audience? Who are you actually targeting? What drives these people, what behavior do they exhibit and where do their needs lie? In other words: who is your target group really? And how do you make sure your message stands out in the online noise and sticks? We provide tools to create overview and direction. No thick marketing books, but practical models, smart questions and assignments that you can apply immediately. Strategy may sound heavy, but with us it feels light, logical and above all: personal.
Shooting content like a pro, just at our studios
Session two is a favorite for many: then we dive into our own studio(s) for a film & photography class. Under Dennis' guidance, participants discovered how to create powerful images themselves, just with your smartphone and without expensive equipment or big crew. Practical, creative and immediately applicable.
From use of light to storytelling, from technical tips to creative freedom: we show how everyone can create beautiful content with their own style and means. Of course with a homework assignment, so that in the class afterwards we could really work with practice.
Let's work together on your future. Contact.
AI in your pocket: content creation with a smart twist
The third session of The Smart Course was all about content creation, conversion-oriented writing and the smart use of AI. Not floaty or overly technical, but simply: how ChatGPT can help you write faster and better, without losing your tone of voice. Our participants were given practical tips and tools to use AI as an assistant, not as a replacement for their unique style.
We discussed, among other things:
- How AI helps find angles that really touch your target audience
- How to add structure (without becoming "boring")
- And how to deploy AI
The best part? Everyone started working on their own texts the same evening.
Algorithms, trends and the power of repetition
In the final evening we looked back and forward. What worked well? What are you going to do differently? And how do you create content that stands out among the billions of posts that appear online every day? We shared insights from Newcom' s National Social Media Research and discussed current trends such as:
- TikTok as a search engine for Gen-Z and Gen Alpha
- The comeback of communities: from Instagram groups to WhatsApp communities
- Short-form video as a powerful storytelling tool
- Social commerce: selling through socials with tools like Live Shopping
- Last but not least, why platform-specific content is the future
We emphasized how important consistency is. Repetition is not rehashing; it is building recognition. The most powerful brands are those that dare to repeat themselves in their own way, with a unique style and recognizable tone.
Where you learn more by having to do less
What makes The Smart Course truly special is the atmosphere. Not a standard classroom, but a warm, open setting with delicious catering (sharing = caring, right?). We make sure everyone feels at ease. Because only when you feel comfortable do you dare to learn, make mistakes and ask questions. And that's exactly what we want: a learning environment where you feel heard, whether you're a start-up or have years of experience.
We deliberately keep the group small (max. 16 participants), so there is plenty of room for personal attention. We like to hear what you want to learn in advance so we can tailor the content to your goals. Afterwards you will receive the course material digitally, including a practical how-to video so you can get started right away. Sometimes we also include a handy cheat sheet, with the most important tips and tools clearly listed. And do you have any questions afterwards? Then, of course, we are always there for you.
What the participants say?
After every lesson, we get the most wonderful reactions:
- "I never thought I would use AI in this way, it's really addictive."
- "You make something that always seemed so complex suddenly so manageable."
- "I'm going home with a full head, but mostly a head full of plans."
- "The atmosphere was super nice, I felt comfortable right away."
And exactly that is what we do it for.
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Also want to participate?
Sign up!
The newest edition of The Smart Course will take place in the fall of 2025 and registrations are already running. There are still spots available, so are you (or do you know) an entrepreneur who wants to take their social media to the next level? Sign up using the contact form below, or email alientrick or call 074 76 20 200 and ask for Laureth or Raymond.
All sessions take place at AlienTrick (Oosterveldsingel 51, Hengelo). Walk-in on all evenings is from 18:15 and we start at 18:30. The evening will last until approximately 20:30. Together we make sure your content is not only seen, but also remembered.
- Tuesday evening, September 23, 2025
- Tuesday evening, September 30, 2025
- Tuesday evening, October 7, 2025
- Tuesday evening, October 14, 2025
Raymond, Dennis and Laureth, look forward to welcoming you.
Not read it yet?
Then also check out our blogs on the first edition,the second edition Or read all about the set-up of The Smart Course.
A little sparring?
Strategy Director and co-founder
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You can also call us: +31 (0)74 76 20 200, gladly even!