Lowering rate to attract potential clients?

[Fireyesblue]

Right now I advertise that I have 2 spaces open and don't say for when. Suggestions? Should I say for when? Maybe January would gain more interest or leave it open ended?

[Rachael]

Right now I advertise that I have 2 spaces open and don't say for when. Suggestions? Should I say for when? Maybe January would gain more interest or leave it open ended?

Leave it open ended. Just advertise for your places with no start date. People who are interested will respond regardless of when they need care and you can then determine if their start date is too far away to hold a place.

I think you said you mainly advertise on FB groups as that's where most people look? Around here, Kijiji seems to be the popular place and you can search for those wanting care and reach out to them with information. Most of mine came from Kijiji initially and now more so word of mouth, but I've tried all of these in the past so some might work for you..

1. Print some business cards - Vistaprint and Moo are fairly inexpensive and you can claim these as a business expense under "office". Place business cards on any noticeboard where Moms hang out - grocery store, Pharmacy (new Mom's love the advice of a pharmacist), doctors office, dental office, play group, local churches, etc. Make sure you place 3 or 4 so they can just take a card.

2. Mail boxes - Make up a flyer - colour gets more attention than black and white. If you have community mail boxes, make the rounds weekly and attach flyers with tear off telephone number/e-mail. Sure some get pulled down by people who don't like it/teenagers being silly but you only need one to work.

3. Are there are bylaws in your area banning lawn signs? If not, you can have one made up for around $20 at Vista Print and stick it on your lawn if your location is such it will help. I'm on the school bus route so lots of traffic passing.

4. Car Magnets - these are great if lawn signs aren't allowed. I have one for each side of my car and when I have openings, I slap them on and it's free advertising. Just your name, day care and telephone number is good enough. You never know.

5. Speak to your local school and see if they will let you put up a flyer. Even if you don't take school age children. Many new families move in over summer and often there's a younger sibling at home who needs day care.

6. Do you have a community flyer/publication. Just a business card sized ad is all that's needed. Depending on location, this might be pricey but we have one which comes out quarterly and I think it was $50 but it goes in every mail box in the area so worth it that time.