Wayne Landlord Association: $100 Idea: How to build a customer list with very little cost….

Monday, July 11, 2011

$100 Idea: How to build a customer list with very little cost….

Many businesses get direct mail list from list brokers. However, with names costing about between $90-$250 per thousand for a one-time use, you may want to build your own database using alternative methods.

Methods to acquire names:

Ask existing customers for their addresses when the order, or take the information off their check. You could also ask them to fill out a short survey in exchange for gift or a discount.
Collect names and addresses from e-mail "signatures" on Internet discussion boards and e-mail lists.
Also swap list with noncompeting businesses or work out other partnerships to capture new businesses. Craig Rosen, owner of At Athletic Supply in Dallas, partnered with big companies. To build his mailing list database, he tried ad inserts in credit card bills and a special offer with Procter & Gamble. He gave space in his own catalog to GTE's NFL - theme calling card in exchange for the names of buyers GTE obtained from its Super Bowl ads and other venues. His one year goal: to add 100,000 names to his house list at little cost. After only seven months, he obtained 75,000 new names for free!

Making a business decision is just common-sense, when you have the facts!

Next: Another free way to get more sales....

We have just completed a website that lists all the $100 Ideas by category. Every week, we will be adding to the list. Go to 100DollarBizTips.com. If you know of someone who can use our practical information, have them register at the website.

Edward King, MBA CPA
Former Director of Wayne State University's Small Business Services
Telephone: (586) 771-3618
Fax: (888) 756-2761 (toll-free)
E-mail: EdwKing@aol.com
Websites: TheSmallBusinessDigest.com, 100DollarBizTips.com, SmallBizKing.com (students only)

KingCo, 1721 Shore Club Drive, St. Clair Shores, MI 48080, USA

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