One major way to evaluate the success of a business is through the number of clients it has. Sometimes it can be difficult getting more clients, especially for new businesses. Applying these tips below will help in getting more and more clients for your events business.
#1. From past clients
When you have a client, chances are that he or she may have friends that are hosting events as well. So you should make it a point to periodically ask your current and past clients for referrals. This is one of the fastest ways to getting new clients. This is why it is very important to always leave your client satisfied and maintain a solid relationship with them. A happy client will always be happy to refer you to one of their friends because they also see this act as doing their friend a favor.
#2. Identify your ideal customer’s reach out points
First of all you need to know the type of clients you are looking for then you can know if there is any venue that you can reach out and connect with them. For instance, do your ideal customers live in a certain location, shop at a certain store? Do they belong to any particular clubs or organizations? Once you have answered these questions, find a way in which you can have access to them. For example, if they attend a particular organization, find out how you can join it too and be friends with them and offer your services.
#3. Reach out to industry partners
When people are planning their events, weddings for example, they go to places like jewelers, bridal boutiques, florists, venues, caterers, bakers, DJs and photographers/videographers etc. All of these can be great mutual sources of referrals to your business. What you have to do is meet up with them and tell them about your business and that you also will be willing to refer people to them. This method demands a lot of your time but can be very rewarding. However make sure that the business person is reliable before referring a client; otherwise this might have an effect on your business.
#4. Teach a local event planning or wedding etiquette class
Many newly engaged brides are often nervous about their wedding and would usually join a class to learn the basics of event planning. Some event planners will hesitate at this because they feel their business will be taken from them but most of the time brides can’t plan their wedding so they get help. While being a teacher, you should make it clear to the attendees that you are always available to consult for hire if they decide they need the assistance of an expert. In fact they will trust you more because you are their teacher and they already have an idea of how good you are. If you want, you can even offer special discounts.
#5. Social media
Another great means to draw more partners to your business is through social media. Get an account in all social media accounts and advertise your services. Ask your clients and prospects what websites they frequent and find a way to connect with users of those sites.
Always remember that in as much as you want more clients, you also need to be well equipped to please them. The last thing you want for your business is to have more than you can handle and as a result leaving them unsatisfied.