Successful marketing ideas to build studio
Found in: Marketing & Advertising
Joy O., Alabama
I have a current goal of 30 students. Currently at 7, with number 8 planning to start when school begins. What do you do for marketing that works? I live in a medium size town in the southern United States.
Cheri S., Utah
In almost any business, experts tell us that most of our clients will come through people we know. Think about every area of life where you know people–book group, gardening club, neighborhood, Facebook friends near and far–and tell everyone about what you’re doing and why you love it. Invite them to share with anyone they think might be interested. Use social media, email, and face-to-face.
Missy M., Iowa
Make a point to let your students know how much you appreciate them. Make sure they know of any incentives you offer for referrals for people as amazing as they are! I grew from 12 to 36 by happy families referring their like-minded quality friends. I did very little advertising.
Christine R., Kansas
A great free marketing idea is to donate a certificate for piano lessons to nearby elementary schools for their silent auction. It’s the ideal target market, many people throughout the school will see your name, and the highest bidder in the auction will likely become a new paying student after the number of lessons you donated.
Leeanne I., Australia
Think very carefully before spending money on advertising. I spent money on advertising initially and it didn’t work. Find as many places as you can to advertise for free. Facebook Buy & Sell pages is one. Offer your existing students incentives to refer students to you. I offer a month’s free lessons.
Karen D., Canada
A basic sign (piano lessons for children – teens – adults – seniors at x & y intersection) at my local grocery store has worked well as well as my website. I get even more emails/calls if I blog regularly (like once per week). Not actively looking for students at this moment, but will gear up again in August for the fall crowd.
Stephen R., California
I offer a referral incentive of two free lessons for current students. I also teach in a music store which gives me referrals. Also, Yelp really works for an online presence–have a few students give you some good reviews. Over time word of mouth will help too. Your current students are your warm market, so make them happy and news will travel.
Patti P., Hawaii
My best advertising has been word of mouth and my website. Word of mouth can take a little time to scale up, but you can offer incentives for studio families who recommend you to their friends.
Ruth P., North Carolina
I’m in a neighborhood ‘chat group’ which has been a place for me to get the word out. Also – once you get established, word of mouth will take over if things are going well.
Sue L., California
Most students find me online. I have my own website and Yelp page. My friends and family reviewed me on Yelp before I got a lot of students. My website is very non-corporate and very “me”. It says a lot about SM and also gives an idea of my teaching style and my musical history. Go to Yelp and type in “piano teachers in (your city)” and you will see what others are doing.