Thursday, October 13, 2016

Great Event Ideas That Attract Customers

If you're looking to connect with local customers, a hosted event is a great way to create excitement and attract new prospects and loyal customers alike. But what kind of event would people like to attend? Here are some great suggestions for customer-attracting events that you can actually use:
  1. Learning Event: You operate a traffic/driving school, right? Why not make use of this "how-to" type of gathering to show off what you do and maybe teach your community a thing or two? A driving school might show off its new simulator or training vehicle (you might even take people out for a short drive around the block). Or you could work up a short video that you play on a loop or other traffic safety demonstration that you present periodically.
  2. Interactive/Hands-On Event: Like a learning event, a hands-on event takes education and literally puts it into the hands of an attendee. It allows guests to roll up their sleeves to learn and do at the same time. Perhaps you own a performance driving school and are willing to give a brief lesson on safe driving in extreme situations. Or maybe you help participants to properly adjust their seats/mirrors/etc. or winterize their vehicles. Anything that provides a service and allows people to participate will be remembered long after the event!
  3. Charitable Event: Events that have a cause tied to them are brilliant at attracting customers because of the "do good, feel good" element. Shopping or spending for a cause is something people can take pride in, and these sentiments help to make these types of events successful and memorable. You could even partner with a driving-related non-profit or service organization in your area. You can hold a charitable event any time of the year, just be sure to connect your theme/cause to something that's relevant to your audience and something they care about.
  4. Special Guest Event:A special guest host or emcee for your event can be an excellent draw. Many local athletes will lend their name and presence to causes they support—and if it's driving-related sport (e.g., a NASCAR), so much the better! Or, perhaps a local custom shop celebrity can make an appearance. People love to have special, out-of-the-ordinary experiences, and these events deliver on that.
  5. VIP Event: People love exclusive offerings, and a VIP event for your most loyal customers (e.g., seniors who take your mature driving course like clockwork every few years) will be a great attraction. The key to doing VIP events well is to keep it small and manageable so you can offer only the best experience—since these are your best customers.

Now that the seed for an event has been planted, it's time to start making preparations. Check out our upcoming blog post for some tips on how to get the word out, so people actually know about and show up for your soiree!