This exploratory study examines higher education strategic communication for identification inducement strategies and tactics using Cheney's (1983) typology as a guiding framework. The study also explores the differences in identification inducement strategies and tactics used between traditional public universities and for-profit online educators. The results of a deductive textual analysis indicate that identification inducement strategies are used in higher education strategic communication designed to recruit students, an external audience with a reverse paid relationship with the organization. A new strategy and two tactics are added to Cheney's typology to fully account for the identification appeals identified.