A Business Plan With Legs

Meghan Coyle of Alexandria is a 12-year-old entrepreneur. She has made more than $320 in two years of walking dogs after school. Her e-mail to us about her business was so full of good information and advice that we decided to reprint it here -- with her permission, of course!

"I've been a dog-walker for two years and have had an amazing experience! My mom never gave me an allowance, so I had to make money some other way. I've gotten books on making money, and after talking with a neighbor I got the job to walk her dog and have been doing it after school ever since. . . .

"Lots of kids don't realize how much of a commitment it is to have a job. I work on keeping my customer happy. There are some days when it's raining and I would rather be elsewhere, but my customer counts on me to come over and walk their dog. . . .

"As to starting a business, I have several tips. Start a business that relates or interests you. If you're not all that good with little kids, it may not be a good idea to start baby-sitting. Then you have to advertise. The easiest and safest way is to talk with neighbors and family friends. You could also place an ad in a local newsletter. After you have the customers, KEEP YOUR CUSTOMERS HAPPY! Send them bills and order forms that you can make on your computer. That always impresses them. Always be willing to do more than they ask. If you notice the dog you're walking kicks over the food bowl, pick it up again. Always admit your mistakes. One time I had accidentally thrown all the mail in the trash because I misread the customer's note and thought it said leave it in the garbage instead of garage. On holidays, give your customers coupons so they will keep coming back to you for your services or products.

"After working for some loyal customers for so long, you really start thinking of your customers as friends. I was never allowed to have a dog, but the dog I was walking became my best friend and the dog I never had."