This is my 3rd attempt at an errand service in a span of say 5 years. I'm now looking for part time/temp work because the bills are well you can imagine.
How does a person know when to give up and throw in the towel? Would any suggest I maybe do a survey outside of store's and see if this is even something people want? I need some suggestion's here. My target market are working Mom's/Dad's. My best customer's are the retired folk that don't drive or are unable to get out much.
Anything at this point would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Louise:(

Louis:

In theory, an errand service is a great idea, assuming three things: that you're making yourself known to people who would be interested in the service; that your prices are reasonable; and that you're projecting an image of honesty, reliability, and trustworthiness.

The reason that personal networking and establishing a stellar reputation are so important is that people are often reluctant to do business with someone they don't know or trust -- especially if you're going to come to their house. Elderly people may be even more cautious, and rightfully so.

However, if you can get your existing contacts to either give you referrals of people that they know(names/phone numbers), so that you can say somthing to the effect of 'Our mutual friend John Smith thought that you might be interested in my personal errand service and suggested I give you a call'...OR if you can get people you know to pass out coupons or your business cards to their friends, acquaintances, coworkers, and relatives... THEN it would be much easier to break the ice and attract new customers.

When should you give up, you ask? Some people would say never, assuming it's a good idea and there's a market for your service. Others would say there's no sense in repeatedly setting yourself up for failure if you're pursuing something that's either not the right business for you, or for which there's not a profitable enough market.

Seems like if you acquire a handful of customers and you provide them with spectacular, friendly, and reliable service, then word of mouth would take over from there. Then again, that might be an oversimplification.

Best of luck and keep the faith!

AlbanyBizWriter
http://www.MarketingSurvivalKit.com
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If your target market is working moms/dads ---- but your customers are retired people ----- sounds like your market is a bit off.

A business idea rarely stays the exact same way as you intended it to be. THings change and evolve.

Now, if you are serious about hitting the initial target market --- that's who you have to market to. Get testimonials from your existing customers and include it in literature to be mailed, handed out, etc.

Are you involved in any community activities? Are you involved with your local chamber of commerce?

Are you available during the time that moms & dads aren't?? Also, are you insured? People get a little testy when it comes to other people coming into their house, apartmetn, etc. when not home.

Think about what it is that you want to really do with this business. Then, write it out. The follow it.

Any business can be successful --- as long as there is a realistic plan in place followed by honest execution. Talk to the local SBDC and they can help you get your idea and plan into action. They should also have a library of books, etc. that talk about an errand service you could look through and get ideas, etc.

Good Luck! Don't give up unless you find that this isn't what you want to do. Have a great week!

Lisa

:D

Thank you all for yor great insight and suggestions:-)
My senior's happend almost by accident I have a dear friend that live's in a retirment park - that was word of mouth free advertising. I have business cards handed out by friend at work, I don't belong to the chamber though I'll be looking into that.
I carry fliers with me listing the types of errands I do. I wear a button that say's "DEED'S DONE". When someone asks or just looks puzzled I had them a flier and talk with them. Maybe, I should ask for their phone number to call them back in a few days or something?
Again thank you for the input.
Louise

Louise:

YES YES YES! Always ask for their phone number and/or email address! Do this EVERYWHERE you go! Even if they say no, not right now, you can still call them back in a month or so and see if their situation has changed.

Plus, you can always ask if they have a friend or loved one who could benefit from your services!

Good Luck!

Lisa :D

It's always a good idea to find out if there is a market for your service first. If people don't want it, then don't waste your time. Remember, when you go fishing, you go where the fish are.