Despite the current state of the economy, many of us are still bravely (and optimistically) embarking on the business venture of our dreams. Starting a new business may be an act of faith, but you can take steps to increase your odds of success. Opening your shop is a grand event in your life! Make your grand opening a grand event in the lives of your new customers and start off on the right path.

While you are working to remodel your space and build your inventory, don’t neglect to build your customer base. How is one to create customers prior to the opening of the shop? You must generate a sense of anticipation so that the neighborhood begins to looks forward to your opening day.

You may not have your sign prepared, but you can easily print up some posters showcasing some tantalizing tastes of the services or merchandise you will be offering. Hang these in the windows of your shop as you remodel, and determine whether other local businesses would be willing to let you hang posters and flyers.

Don’t forget to talk to your neighbors! Let other business owners and employees know what you are doing. Speak with enthusiasm and create some word of mouth advertising. When regular patrons of the local pub wonder aloud, “What are they doing next door?” the answer will be forthcoming even when you’re not there to answer.

Another smart choice involves an enticing peak through your windows as you remodel. After you’ve printed and hung your posters, use soap or another easily-washable material to cover most of the glass from the inside, but leave a clear circle at eye level (if you intend to appeal to children, leave two circles—one at the height of an adult’s head, and one closer to the ground) so that curious passers-by can watch the transformation and imagine themselves shopping in your space.

Next week: Advance Publicity