Launching a new service can be challenging. Not only are you worried about nailing down logistics of getting the businesses up and running, you also have to figure out a way to get the word out to potential customers.
Fear not – We’ve compiled a list of ways to announce a new service to your community and keep audiences engaged once the service is up and running.
Kick Things Off With an Event
Holding a grand opening event can be a great way to announce your new service to the community. Reach out to your local chamber of commerce chapter. Most of the time, they will provide a large ribbon and scissors for an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. In addition to inviting your chamber of commerce, inviting local dignitaries and VIP customers is an excellent way to get important people in the know on your new offering.
Grand Opening, VIP Open House Event for a Dream Dinners location
Promote the event to the remainder of the community by leveraging paid social tactics and traditional media relations. Offering a slight discount or free services during the event can be a great way to get people to experience the new offering first hand so they’re sure to spread the word to friends and family organically. Finally, make sure you hire a professional photographer to snap photos at the event. These photos can be used for follow up outreach to media contacts and on social media.
Tap Community Partners
Other businesses or like-minded associations can be strong partners in letting people know you are open for businesses. Partnering with other local establishments allows you to connect with an audience that is already passionate about supporting local offerings. If it makes sense, creating polished fliers to share with local hotels and businesses can also be a great way to share information on your new service.
Also, don’t be afraid to leverage local events that are already in the works. Reach out to see if you can set up a booth or offer discounted services for attendees.
Encourage Reviews to Spread the Word
Scooter helped DevouCycle, a bike rental service, set up business accounts to gather reviews.
Inviting bloggers and local influencers to test and review your new service can be a great way to encourage others to try out your new offering. It’s no secret that people are more likely to try something recommended to them by a reliable source, such as a friend or family member, than by a brand. In fact, the Word of Mouth Marketing Association found that 13 percent of sales are driven by word of mouth.
It’s also important to leverage free review sites. Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews can be helpful in spreading the word about your service. Many of these sites offer free marketing tools to business. Some will even partner with new businesses on exclusive parties and events for their members to drive reviews and encourage users to try new, local offerings.
Whether you’re rolling out a bike rental or meal prep service or opening a beauty salon, these three tips can not only help you announce that you are open for business but also drive trials. Ensuring that you are leveraging several different outlets to spread the word will increase your success and extend your reach.
Scooter Media Is Your PR Resource
Scooter Media is your resource for navigating the world of PR and event planning. Looking for more tips? Read our primer on why PR should be a key element in your restaurant’s grand opening plan, and don’t miss our tips for making your event a media relations success.
About Scooter Media
Scooter Media is a full-service communications agency in greater Cincinnati specializing in public relations and social media.
