Are you opening a dollar store? If so, one of the never-ending challenges for every business is to continually locate and then motivate new prospective customers to give your business a try. The same is true for every dollar store. No matter how well your business is performing, it is critical to continually invest time and money to retain current customers and to bring new customers into your store. In this article I present 6 sources of prospective customers when opening a dollar store.

1) Current customers. Satisfied current customers are a great source of new customer traffic for your store. While you can expect some word-of-mouth advertising to come from those who feel you have a truly outstanding store it is important to make a concerted effort to motivate existing customers to help grow your customer base. This can be easily done by providing rewards to those shoppers for bringing in new clients for your business. Often existing customers will also be happy to tell others if there are rewards or discounts to those who are referred; family and friends who come in as a result of their efforts.

2) Organizations within your community. Many local organizations are in need of donations, ideas and participation. After opening a dollar store get your store noticed by selecting one or two that interest you and becoming involved. While only a small amount of time and little investment is required, you will be recognized. Don't forget to make meetings an opportunity to network with others.

3) Schools close to your store. One of the surest ways to become known in your community is through the schools. While there are a variety of options, the two most effective ways to gain attention and recognition may be the easiest. First is to offer school teachers a small discount on their purchases. Even 10% off of their purchases goes a long way toward helping when teachers purchase stickers, paper, pens and other supplies for their classroom. Donating to school functions and classroom parties costs little, but pays big dividends in good will as well.

4) Homeowners and renters within your local area. A well-written flyer mailed to those within your shopping area can mean more new traffic for your business. Include details about the benefits your store and products offer to these prospective buyers to motivate them to take action and actually come in. Don't forget to provide some sort of discount or prize for those who bring their mailers with them.

5) Charities within your community. What better way to gain new customer traffic than to help others in your community. Offering small discounts or donating needed items will gain lots of attention and recognition for your store. These donations are also very much appreciated. The word will get out about your generosity.

6) Other businesses within your shopping area. Other businesses in your area are seeking new customers as well. Why not meet your neighbors and work together to gain exposure for your businesses? Meeting your neighboring businesses should start during your investigative due diligence before opening a dollar store. Introduce yourself as you examine the neighborhood and the opportunity. After opening your store, return and start building teamwork.

To your dollar store business success!

Author: Bob Hamilton

About the author:
Find out how you can open your own dollar store business.
Bob Hamilton is an entrepreneur, author, writer, business consultant and trainer.


Article source: Free Customer Service Articles.