Local holistic business directory

[fizixx]

Hi everyone!

I have been thinking of this idea for a while. I am a big networker and I refer out to many other professionals in the area. A lot have a hard time being "found" or with the general public's lack of information about what everyone has to offer.
I was thinking about starting up some kind of directory for holistic practitioners. MT's, Reflexologists, Acupunturists, Reiki, CS practitioners, etc. Definitions of each treatment, referral information, credentials, etc.
I thought also about including a testimonial about each person. I have a policy where I don't refer to anyone who I haven't tried and liked myself.

Kind of like a restaurant guide, but for holistic work.

Has anyone seen something like this before?
Any ideas on what to do to get it started?
Good - Bad idea?

 

[Ian]

On an internet level there is always Holistic Local.

You could also check out the Organic Treasure Map website for ideas on starting your own local directory of sorts.

I absolutely love this idea by the way! If I was doing it I would consider charging those listed a fee to help with the printing. So the chiro and the reiki teacher and the pilates instructor all pay X dollars for their listing and can receive X copies.

I worked as a church secretary once and took their bulky membership directory and made it into a half-fold (8.5x11 paper folded in half and stapled together). It was convenient for the members to carry in their day planners/address books and there was a section at the front of the booklet with some church details (history, staff, hours, contact info). I used Microsoft Publisher to create it, I used the "catalog" template and replaced the merchandise area with two text columns.

Since I am on a total role here I would suggest to include primary care physicians (ones you know and like of course!) and other Western medicine practitioners. This will be especially useful information for clients new to the area and looking for a doctor, and those who are looking for a doctor that won't think they're nuts for receiving massage or reiki or whatever!

If a print version of this directory isn't in your budget I bet a website, "AustinHolistic.com" for example, would be very affordable to maintain and change as your list grows. Then get VistaPrint to print up some biz cards with the web address and your eforum.xxx line "helping clients and practitioners meet" and distribute them amongst those listed on your directory to hand out to new clients.

Sorry for the book. Hope something is useful!

 

[MANNEQUIN]

Wow! Great post Dragonflies!

Lots of great ideas! I like the idea of charging a fee for those in the listings - certainly would help with the cost of things.
Maybe both a website and a printed directory.

I have a lot to research. I am glad that someone else likes the idea.

 

[gReeN dAy RuLeS]

Masthera,

This a great idea, keep me posted on how it goes.

Happy Posting!

Heather