The Five P's of Marketing Any Business

Marketing is an essential part of business. It often determines how successful you will be. There are certain factors, however, you should consider when developing your marketing strategy. These Five P's will aid you in formulating a successful promotion plan.

*        Product/Service ~child/healthy development

*      Price competitive ~call CCRN if you are unsure

*       Place ~ location, parking, accessibility, cleanliness

*        Promotion ~ what sets you apart and shows your qualities

*        Persuasion ~ ability to sell yourself

Marketing Specific to Child Care

*        Get and stay registered. Most parents want a regulated provider and often demand it.

*        Keep your information with Child Care Resource Network up-to-date, as we only need a little of your time, not your money.

*        Offer an incentive to current parents who refer another family your way, like a free night out, if the new family enrolls and stays with you for a pre-determined amount of time.

*        Develop business cards and flyers to pass out and post.

*        Give your business a warm and friendly name with a tag line like, "Annie's Place- a safe place for your children while you work."

*        Develop a scrap book or photo gallery to show prospective parents.

*       Have a brief but inviting message on your answering machine with no music, kids or dogs on the recording.

*       Answer your phone in an up-beat, friendly manner. Be professional.

Be patient, eventually that good word-of-mouth will pay off. If you offer quality, professional care, you will get children. Remember to take the time to interview parents and look for the good fit. In the long run it will pay off.

Business Cards

Computers have basic programs to help you format cards. At the least, include your name, phone number, general location (elementary school area will work), hours of operation and ages accepted.

Flyers/Brochures

Computers also often have templates for these. Study written advertisements in newspapers and ask yourself why they appeal to you to help you formulate your own marketing tools.

The Job Council in Jackson and Josephine Counties offer Resource Rooms where you may find assistance developing your business cards, flyers and/or brochures.

Foot work

Introduce your business to the local schools (private and public), to your local spiritual community, clubs, organizations, business or civic groups. List your program on the Internet, such as on Craig's List.

Establish Yourself as a Business

Providers can only expect parents to treat them as professionals when they act as professionals. Set the tone for your business by developing rules and enforcing them. Develop payment receipts, newsletters, bulletin boards, policies, contracts and incidental agreement documents. Set up regular meetings with parents as needed.