The way to the heart of virtually any person is through their pets and/or their children. Just about everyone has one or the other and they all value them like no other. It's a widely known fact that's often overlooked, however, it's a golden opportunity for you and an easy one to take advantage of.
As a parent myself, I make it a point to do most of my business at places that are child friendly. My automobile service department has a playroom, my coffee shop has a kiddie corner, the restaurants I frequent have kids menus & crayons, etc. There are so many things you can do to make your community child friendly, both for your residents and for your prospects. Here are a few of my favorites:
-The obvious-have child friendly snacks on hand. Cookies, crackers and gummies are great and relatively inexpensive. In addition to the bottled water and coffee bar, also have juice boxes available for the kids.
-If you have space, make a kid's corner in the clubhouse. For under $200, you can get a small table and chairs, coloring books, crayons, blocks and other small toys to keep kids occupied while their parents take care of business. It's a small investment that will go a long way.
-In the summertime, keep Popsicles on hand to give to kids at the pool.
-Establish a relationship with some local restaurants and offer to print their kids menus for them if you can put your logo on it. You can include artwork for the kids to color and give the restaurant some crayons with your label on them if they don't already have them. It's pretty inexpensive and easy to come up with. The parents will be sure to notice your community sponsored their children's entertainment!
-Organize a playgroup for your residents. Parents of small children relish any opportunity for adult interaction and often seek out playgroups. They'll love having one right in their neighborhood...it's convenient, plus a great way for them to meet their neighbors!
-For every adult oriented resident function you hold, be sure to hold one that's kid friendly as well. An arts and crafts party, pajama party, pizza party, movie night and dance party are all big hits!
-If you have a TV in your office, be sure to know the child friendly stations. If you have a DVD player, keep kids movies on hand. Each time a parent of small kids has to come in to do some kind of business, offer to turn on a show for the kids. TV is a great way to keep kids occupied when parents need to take care of business.
For people who don't have kids, pets are their babies. Here are some great ways you can cater to the four legged babies in your neighborhood!
-Keep doggie treats on hand in the office. Be sure to have ones appropriate for both large and small dogs.
-When a new resident with a pet moves in, tailor their move in gift to be pet related. Include doggie waste bags for easy poop pick up. It's a win win for everyone!
-If you have space, create a dog park. Since dogs can't be unleashed in a community, this is a great way for them to be able to let out some steam.
-Pet waste stations around your community are a must. It encourages pet waste pick up and is a great convenience for the pet owner.
-Host pet playdates. People love an opportunity to take their pets anywhere outside of the house!
-Create a photo board of "Our Favorite Four Legged Residents" and display it in the office. No Fair Housing violations here! Residents will love seeing their pet's photo on display for everyone to see.
-Host community events like obedience classes & vaccination clinics. It's great exposure for your community to get their name out there, plus your residents will love the convenience of not having to go far to take advantage of these services.
Morgan Oney, CAM
www.getmoreleases.com & www.mynewsletterconnection.com
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