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Running a day care business from home can be emotionally rewarding. However, you want it to be financially rewarding, as well. To do that, you must optimize your client base.
The wisest strategy is to attract clients in an effective inexpensive manner. This is easier than it sounds! Provide a good service, keep your paying parents happy, and do a little footwork.
You'll be pleased with the results. Below, I've listed ten strategies that I used when I ran my own home day care. I always ran at full capacity, and many times had to refer clients to other day cares.
Remember that last statement. Be sure to network with other day care providers. Be friendly. Be honest and helpful. There are lots of parents who need day care services out there. Don't alienate your competition, learn to cooperate with other day care services. It may just lead to more business for you and some great friendships with folks who understand your day to day challenges.
1. Advertise in small local publications, ie. pennysavers, community newspapers, area newsletters.
2. Contact your local Day Care Connection, ask them how to go about getting listed with them.
3. Use marketing strategies that you are familiar with, run a special! Let interested parents check out one or two days for free
4. Give business cards to your patrons. Ask them to pass them along to other interested parents. Happy parents are your best resource and reference for expanding your business!
5. Leave flyers with your school secretary. Ask her to get permission from your school district to distribute them to students.
6. Place your business cards in places where people already know and respect you, ie. your college, your church, your husband's place of employment.
7. Watch for house sales. Stick your flyers on the front doors of homes that have recently been sold. Parents new to a community may be in need of your services!!
8.Set up a booth at local health fairs, bazaars, and community sales. Pass out your business cards and flyers.
9. Prepare a philosophy of child care statement. Display it when you attend local community events.
10. Check out local radio stations. We have TRADIO in our area. This program allows you to promote items for sale and small businesses, such as daycares, for little or no charge.
What are you waiting for? Go build that business!
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