The business landscape has changed dramatically over the last decade and even over the last year. Customers go online more and more to compare contractors and make buying decisions. Even with these global changes, most customers still look locally when shopping for a home improvement contractor. The people in your community are ready to hire your services for their home projects. And with the right strategy, you can become their trusted choice of local contractor. Try these 3 ways to attract more local business and see what is possible!
Offer Local-Only Deals and Discounts
First, who can resist a quality discount? Offer deals and discounts on your contracting services that are for local residents only. When a customer knows that you value their business as a neighbor, they will come back! Furthermore, depending on your services, you might even consider offering a discount program for repeat local customers. Discount programs encourage your customers to repeatedly engage your services and continue earning benefits. When the choice is between a giant company who doesn’t care about the customer and a local business who offers you deals as a neighbor, the choice is easy.
Build Your Local Network
Next, there’s an old saying that says, “Show yourself friendly, and you’ll have friends.” In the same way, putting yourself and your business out into the community will build your network and increase your local brand awareness. Every time you are able to meet a new person and tell them about your contracting services, you increase your local business pool.
Certainly, your community hosts any number of networking organizations, business meetups, and trade associations. Representing your business in networking spaces like these bolsters your local brand recognition, helping you attract more local business. You can join your local chamber of commerce or even attend local school PTA meetings.
Furthermore, you can build your local network by helping your community in tangible ways. Consider donating your contracting services to a local project that benefits the community or preserves its history. You can also sponsor local sports teams or participate in local holiday parades or events with a parade float or a vendor booth. When you participate in the life and culture of your community, local customers see how you care and trust you as a neighbor.
Build Your Online Presence
This last tip may sound antithetical to the goal of attracting more local business. However, establishing a presence for your contracting business on social media is essential to connect locally. Statistics show that the majority of people online use the internet to search for local vendors and services. Local customers are more likely to engage your business when the information they need about you is easily accessible online and on social media. A social media presence also makes it easier for customers to share your business and results with their friends. Unquestionably, a local recommendation from a friend or acquaintance is the best marketing your business can get.
You Can Attract More Local Business
Building your local client base as a contractor is nothing to fear. Quite to the contrary, attracting more local business can be exciting and fun once you get started! You can attract local leads who need financing by offering funding solutions from HFS Financial when they work with you. Our quick and easy inquiry process could not be simpler. Contact us today or call us at 1-800-254-9560 for more information about the best contractor financing for customers from HFS Financial!