Tips and Tools For Building Your Clientele

So, you've got a solid foundation for your company ‒ now what? Attracting new business can be easier said than done, but luckily there is no shortage of marketing resources for new (and not-so-new) contractors.  Below are some tools you can use to expand and maintain your client base. 

Lawn Signs
If there's one thing we know, it's that people tend to respond to visuals. It follows that one of the most effortless ways to gain attention and increase your business is by using lawn signs. These relatively cheap advertisements will do the work for you, drawing in new leads even outside of business hours.

Direct Mail Postcards
For a more personalized approach, trying using direct mail postcards to boost the reach of your business. Postcards give potential clients something to look at while also sending the message that their business, specifically, is valuable to you. 

Referrals
What's more convincing than a friend or family member's stamp of approval? Reach out to past and current customers to see if they know of anyone who has home improvement needs. Chances are they can think of at least one person who's been meaning to touch up a paint job or add space to a cramped room. Asking satisfied customers to provide you with a glowing recommendation is the perfect way to build your client base. Find more tips on getting customer reviews here. 

Google AdWords
In the modern age, most people use Google to find what they're looking for. It's crucial that, when prospective customers are "Googling" the best contractors for a project, your company's name shows up in the search results. Signing up for AdWords is free; you only pay when people click on your advertisement. What's more, AdWords allows you to target certain cities and regions, making it easy to find leads in your area. 

Cold Calling
This can be a frightening tactic; it's tough to get used to the occasional rejection that comes with personally contacting strangers about your services. Nonetheless, you should never underestimate the power of a friendly voice. Speaking with possible clients directly shows that you're accessible and allows you to build a stronger contractor-client relationship right from the start.  This is also one of the most cost-effective methods of fostering new business. 

Lead Generation Services
Want to reach out to a large group of people who are looking for pros like you? Sign your company up for lead generation services. There are several websites that offer this kind of support, including HomeAdvisor, Thumbtack, and Angie's List. Customers list their home improvement needs on these sites and are then matched with professionals who are able to perform those projects. Neat, right? 

Marketing to Past Customers
New leads are great, but part of building a thriving business is holding onto your existing clientele. Don't wait around for past customers to call you ‒ check in with them on a regular basis to see if they have any new projects they would like completed. Even if they don't have any construction needs at the time, they'll appreciate the fact that you're thinking of them, and they'll be more likely to remember you for future projects.