Those are among the benefits of teaching a class.

Business by Design this month has a look at classes and public seminars.

THIS MONTH:
+ Smart Marketing at its Best
+ Summer Sale!
+ Teaching Tips

SMART MARKETING AT ITS BEST
So, you know you're stuff.

When it comes to floor plans or fabrics or custom cabinets, you can talk for hours. You're an expert. Great!

But not enough of the right people - your key prospects - know of you, or your expertise. Not so great.

Why not share that expertise with potential clients by presenting continuing education classes, remodeling seminars or other public programs? Why not get paid to share your insights and know-how - and pick up new clients in the process?

Susan Miner does. She traces 85 per cent of her business to the "Principles of Design" adult education classes she presents in Denver and nearby Monument, CO.

Jane Gates does. She's taught classes since she launched her Denver interior design business in 1963 - and she recently got a $800,000 remodeling job from one of her "50 Quick Fix Remodeling Tips" seminars.

And so do dozens of other designers, kitchen and bath professionals, window fashion specialists, decorators and others. They offer seminars, courses, clinics, workshops and other programs at adult learning centers, chambers of commerce, hardware stores, libraries, and elsewhere.

"My programs attract homeowners interested in redecorating or buying furniture or learning secrets of designers," says Gates. "They hire me because they feel they can't do it themselves."

Miner, who this summer is working on 23 projects generated from her classes, has had a similar experience with her students.

"They find out its harder than it looks," she points out. "They want to do it right. When they find they can't, they hire me."


TEACHING TIPS
Teach em what you know - and watch your business grow.

Some suggestions on how to add class to your class and book a bunch of business while you're at it:

Think "Catalogue," not just "Class" - Your course description can attract lots of business from those who never attend your class. Why? The catalogue may reach hundreds - and you're inclusion in it positions you as an expert.

Make Yourself Memorable - Add pizzazz to your presentation by including humor and anecdotes. Provide top notch handouts and marketing materials.

Team Up - Ask a retailer, supplier or other "partner" to promote and host your program. Point out that it's a great way for them to reach out to their prospects.

Sell Yourself! - Promote your services. Remember: Most do-it-yourselfers don't. They want and need your help.

Touch 'em with your Topic - Focus on a subject you know about - and your ideal prospects care about.

Home office design, art and accessories, cabinet refacing, preparing your home for resale - the possibilities are endless.

Touch 'em with your Title - Create a program name that catches their fancy - and attention.

Examples: "Million Dollar Remodeling on a Shoestring Budget;" "What's Hot & Not in Window Fashions;" "Turn Your House into a Home for the Holidays."

Get Their Feedback - Provide a form on which attendees can evaluate your program. Use it to solicit their referrals.