The biggest problem for many groups, especially groups that are small or just starting out, is enrolling members. How does one find others like his or herself? Without a clue about Marketing or Advertising, I gave it my all, and I can say from experience that for any social group word of mouth produces the best results (We'll cover that later!).
But for argument's sake, let's assume that you have no one to spread the word. So what do you do?
First you have to make your group visible. Get your group's website an individual address. Godaddy is the provider I use; it's not expensive, and not too hard to figure out how to link it. Submit your website to search engines like Google, and Yahoo.
Now the real work begins. Start linking your web address to other high visibility websites. Find blogs that on remotely relating to your group, and see if they accept guest bloggers. Write articles for some article websites like ezarticles and put the link to your group in the signature. This will strengthen your visibility on search engines.
Let's realize that the Internet is our friend. Although it can be a risky place to put information, organizers can control the amount of information released. It can be as simple as an advertisement of a playgroup, simply stating, please write to this email if interested. Then these responses can be collected and emailed more information or a phone number to call.
If advertising online, there are many approaches to doing so.
Social Media.
It's the new wave of advertising word of mouth. Social Media has even been accused of out-doing google ads, the top online provider in advertisement. Something as simple as starting a facebook fanpage or twitter account can roll out some new members. Just be sure to keep your followers updated on all the cool stuff your group does!
Online Classifieds
More places to advertise items for free are popping up. Craigslist has a place designated for groups specifically, but you may find free classifieds on your local newspapers/station's websites.
Online Groups
Online groups are becoming a major part of online social activity. Many places like google or yahoo allow anyone with an account to start one. Facebook and Meetup.com also do any type of social group you might be looking to start.
For playgroups specifically check out these sites:
cafemom.com
iplaygroups.com
raisingthem.com
socialtoddler.com
playgroupsusa.com
A word about invite etiquette
I am a big supporter of 'the more the merrier' and 'everyone's invited' attitude. However, inviting members of other groups to join yours may be offensive to other group organizers. Remember that they have worked to get the amount of members they have, and there is a possibility that they will see an innocent invite as an indication that his or her group is not 'good enough'.
If you intend to invite members from another group, ask the organizer his or her feelings first. Make sure that when you invite members that you keep your main intentions of joining that group to participate, and not simply solicit your own group.
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