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Dear ,
There's a barber shop for kids in Ypsilanti, Michigan that's doing something crazy-clever that's getting noticed big time.
How big?
The shop landed on ABC World News Tonight's "Person of the Week." Wouldn't you say that's pretty big?
The owner of the shop created a program called:
The "Read to a Barber Program"
Kids come in for a haircut, pick out a book and read it to the barber while he is cutting away.
In return, the barber pays each kid $2 as a reward and probably gains a customer for life.
This is a genius idea for many reasons:
1. The owner is creating publicity for his store by doing something novel and community-based.
2. The program encourages kids to read, which strengthens ties to the community.
3. The $2 payment is like an instant 20% off rebate to the customer (I believe the kids cuts are only $10).
4. It motivates the kids and parents to want to return and definitely want to send the owner referrals.
5. It keeps the kids focused on reading during the cut instead of being unruly, fidgety or loud, which can distract the barber and waste time.
6. It is a "feel good" promotion where everyone wins.
I'm sure I can think of more benefits, but you get the idea.
What I'd like you to do is think of something you can do for your business that will tie-in community service, a direct benefit to your customer and publicity for your business.
Remember, the idea is to leave your customer with that warm and fuzzy feeling.
Until next time...
If you have any comments, ideas or suggestions, please email me at: nader@copticchamber.com.
