When choosing a service company, people look for providers that live up to their expectations and companies that do what they say. My serial entrepreneur parents had a service company that I grew up with. Here are some of the best tips I’ve gleaned.
Put Homeowners at Ease
If you provide services at someone’s home, you must show how you’ll make the homeowner comfortable with a stranger setting foot on their property. Let new customers know your technician will wear a green uniform and drive a white truck.
Word of Mouth
Word of mouth will be the best marketing for a service business. Today word of mouth is extended online on social media and review sites. Ask your happy customers to write you a testimonial on their favorite social network.
Here’s your script, “So I can help more people like you, could you please share (that kind thing you just said) on your favorite social network?”
Keep Current Customers
Keep in touch with existing customers. Message them enough to stay top-of-mind but not so much as to be a nuisance.
People lose business cards and forget who provided services for them in the past. Check-in when they’re almost due for their annual checkup so they don’t forget. This is also a great time to ask for referrals.
Here’s your script, “Do you know if your neighbor could use our window washing services? If we can schedule you for the same day, I can discount your services by $20.”
Be sure to hand out extra business cards to your customers! People still pass them on to friends!
Be a Local Celebrity and Cheerleader
If your service area is small, invest heavily in your local community. For example, consider sponsoring local sports teams or events. Give to local causes that align with your company and personal values. Be a good human. Be part of the community where you live and work.
Don’t be afraid to toot your horn when/where appropriate. Getting on the local news won’t take much work in a small town! So why not partner with another organization for a donation challenge or joint charity event?
Get Virtual
Can you take your service virtual? We have gotten accustomed to video conferencing for things we previously thought had to be done in person. Can you share your service online? Can you host a Zoom class or Q&A session to showcase your service? Record the class, and you can share clips on YouTube, your website, and other social media after the event.
Similarly, can people stay home and still benefit from your service? Can you make house calls?
If you would like help marketing your service business, be sure to contact Fletcher Consulting.