Pumping Up Your Client List Turn a 98-pound weakling business into a profit powerhouse in 3 easy steps!
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Q: I recently opened awomen's fitness center. Even though I've been open for twomonths, I have hardly any members. Any ideas on how to findcustomers? Name withheld
A: Marketing a new businessis always a challenge-unless you're lucky enough to be sellinglife preservers to people jumping from a sinking ship. One easy wayto pique the interest of prospective customers is to offerintroductory specials. Just make it clear that those specials arelimited introductory offers so you're not stuck with prices orpackages that don't allow you to make a decent profit onceyou're off and running. Bargains always capture a lot ofattention, so consider advertising your offer in media that willreach potential customers.
Another idea: If there are professionals who might refer theirpatients or clients to you, think about how you might benefit theirpractices and pursue relationships that they'll perceive asadvantageous to them.
A third tried-and-true technique is what we call the "WalkAround the Neighborhood." Select a target building, street,area or type of establishment where you'll find women who couldbenefit from your services. Then simply walk from office to office,booth to booth, or store to store, introducing yourself and leavinginformation. Repeat this process. By the third visit, those youmeet will probably remember you.
Paul and Sarah Edwards' most recent book is Changing Directions Without Losing Your Way.Send them your start-up questions at www.workingfromhome.com or e-mail entmag@entrepreneur.com.
