One of the most important things to keep in mind is attitude. You must always remember that you are a guest in the retailer's facility and when you finally get an appointment with the person in charge, you have to first tell them what your group has to offer.

In the beginning:

• Frequent Visits
• Request Meetings

What do you have to offer:

• Demo Days
• Support
• Orientation
• "Children's Learning Day"

How to implement:

• Ask for a conference
• Have as many volunteers as possible show up every time
• Let them know that your support is only as strong as your membership
• Start reaping the benefits:
• Slowly begin mentioning the ways they could return the favors.

All of this takes monstrous commitment and involves a lot of time. There is a huge staff turnover in retailing, even in management so you must be constantly schmoozing.

The result: Happy Members and Retailers eager to support.

All you have to do is try! We'll be happy to help. You can make it work, WE DID!