Marketing is everything. Every interaction you have with potential customers is a form of marketing. From the way you answer the phone to how your service vehicles look, it all contributes to how people perceive your business.
In this post, we’ll explore five proven ways to market your home service business and ensure you stay top-of-mind for customers. Whether you're in plumbing, HVAC, electrical, or another trade, these strategies will help you stand out from the competition.
Many home service business owners believe that being skilled in their trade is enough to attract customers. However, even if you're the best at what you do, marketing is what actually drives business.
Think about companies like Coca-Cola or McDonald’s. Everyone already knows who they are, yet they still spend billions on advertising. Why? Because they need to stay top of mind.
The same principle applies to your business. People don’t wake up wanting to call a plumber or HVAC technician. They only think about you when they have a problem. That’s why it’s crucial to market consistently, so when the need arises, they remember your name.
Every aspect of your business is marketing, including:
Your trucks: Are they clean and professionally branded?
Your team’s appearance: Do they wear clean uniforms, or do they look unprofessional?
How you drive: If you have company branding on your vehicle, aggressive driving can leave a bad impression.
Customer interactions: How you greet customers, how you answer the phone, and how you handle complaints all matter.
Reviews: Even how you respond to online reviews is a form of marketing.
Your reputation is built on the sum of these small actions. Customers buy from businesses they know, like, and trust. By ensuring every interaction reflects professionalism and reliability, you’ll build trust and attract more business.
When people need a home service, where do they go? Google.
To ensure you’re visible, you must be present in the right places:
Google Local Service Ads (LSAs): This is the “Google Guaranteed” section at the top of search results.
Google My Business (GMB): Also known as Google Maps, this free listing is essential for local search visibility.
Your website: Ensure it’s optimized for local SEO so people can find you when searching for services in your area.
Make sure your Google My Business profile is complete with updated photos, customer reviews, and correct business details. The more you optimize your profile, the higher you’ll rank in searches.
Your potential customers spend hours every day scrolling on social media. If you’re not active there, you’re missing out on free exposure.
Here’s how to leverage social media:
Post community-related content: Share local events, support charities, or highlight team members.
Engage with followers: Respond to comments, share helpful tips, and interact with your audience.
Showcase your brand: Post pictures of your trucks, staff, and completed jobs (but avoid gross images of clogged drains or dirty pipes!).
The key is to stay visible without being overly salesy. The more familiar people are with your brand, the more likely they are to call you when they need help.
Getting involved in your community builds brand awareness and trust. Consider these strategies:
Sponsor local sports teams: Have your logo on jerseys or banners at games.
Support community events: Participate in charity drives, parades, or local fairs.
Partner with local businesses: Build relationships with real estate agents, property managers, and contractors who can refer customers to you.
These efforts may not bring immediate returns, but they create a strong local presence that pays off over time.
If you want to take your business to the next level, marketing must be a top priority. By implementing these five strategies, you’ll build a strong brand, attract more customers, and grow your business consistently.
For more expert guidance on running a successful home service business, get a free strategy session to see how we can help you grow your business!