In 2011, the dating business generated nearly $ 1 billion in revenue. A third of all couples met through dating websites, and one in five people found love thanks to the internet. The industry is crowded with numerous commercial offers, many of which are unsuccessful. However, if you are able to pinpoint a particular market niche, you will be able to create a successful dating service.
Steps
Step 1. Decide who your customers will be
Some agencies cater to managers and executives looking for love who don't have the time to find it, others work with people over 50, others specifically target homosexuals. The possibilities are numerous.
Step 2. Decide how you will interact with customers
You can run a traditional office where you can meet clients in person, work online only, or both.
Step 3. Name your business
Make sure there is no other dating service in your area or on the internet with the same name - this could be confusing.
Step 4. Contact the relevant offices to register your company
Make sure you meet all tax obligations as well.
Step 5. Research your competitors to set prices and determine what services you will offer
Find a way to target customers they don't care about.
Step 6. Create a website
Even if you choose to only work with clients in person, the site is a great marketing tool. You can also use it to gather customer information before meeting them face-to-face.
Step 7. Start organizing meetings for friends and family
At this stage, it is advisable to make discounts. If you are successful, they will speak well of you to other people and new customers will arrive.
Step 8. Make flyers and business cards to promote your services
If you don't have a lot of money, you can make your own promotional material or ask a friend to help you. Distribute flyers in your neighborhood. You can also email your friends or post promotional posts on social networks.
Step 9. Organize a speed dating night at a local restaurant
Speed dating gives a guest 5 to 10 minutes to get to know another. After this time, switch to another guest. This allows the participants to have various mini-appointments in a short time and you will be able to organize real meetings starting from the knowledge of that evening.
Step 10. Prepare a contract to enter into with customers
Make sure you set ground rules about what is and is not allowed. Remember that your service is to help people who are looking for love, not just to make money.
Step 11. Continue promoting your service
Make your company name known with flyers, advertisements and word of mouth.
Advice
- If you work in an office, hang photos of your clients on the walls. This will help you remember who you are working for and will also help who is reaching out to you. The images will help customers to better identify the person they are looking for.
- Make it clear with your customers that your dating service is aimed at people who are looking for love and not just sex.
Warnings
- Don't forget to be well informed about who your customers are. Make sure you check their past and their criminal record.
- Only 1% of dating services survive, so you need to have a specific plan in mind.
