0816_TOEFL-Test-and-Score-Manual-1997

172 ● 201 Great Ideas for Your Small Business
You may not have a glitzy office, but even a small-scale open house can
draw people to your door.
Here are some tips for planning an open house:
• Appoint a committee to plan the party.
• Figure out whether you’ll give organized tours or let people wander
around on their own.
• Plan a menu of easy-to-eat finger foods and simple beverages. Restrict
eating to the lunchroom or other suitable area.
• Pick a time of year when your business looks its best and weather won’t
jeopardize attendance.
• Send out invitations via e-mail or hard copy at least a month in advance.
• Ask people to RSVP via telephone or e-mail. Schedule the event to last
no more than two or three hours.
• Ask all your employees to tidy up their work space.
• Lock up any valuables before the open house.
• When guests arrive, give them a one-page flyer with basic information
about your company.
• Assign plenty of staffers to act as hosts and guides.
• Buy flowers or plants to decorate the reception area.
• Rest up the night before so you are ready to meet and greet people.
• Try to have fun.
GREAT
Use Great Public Relations to Promote
Your Business
IDEA One of the best ways to generate publicity for your company
is to do something positive for the community.
You might consider inviting your local radio or television station or
paper to participate in your event as a media sponsor. News outlets often
support community events as well as cover them.
The Whistle Stop Restaurant & Bakery in Birmingham, Michigan,
needed help publicizing a “Name Your Price for Dinner” week in 2009.